Don’t Get Stopped at the Airport

Federal ID & Travel: What Documents You Should Carry Now

Federal agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are enforcing new security and identification rules — especially for people flying or interacting with federal checkpoints.

What Is a REAL ID?

A REAL ID is a driver's license or state ID that meets special federal security standards. These standards were set by the REAL ID Act, which was created after 9/11 to make identification harder to fake.

If your state ID has a star symbol on it, it’s REAL ID-compliant. A REAL ID works for:

• Boarding domestic U.S. flights

• Entering certain federal buildings

• Passing through TSA security checkpoints without extra checks

What Documents You Should Carry

Here are commonly accepted forms of ID at airport security and federal checkpoints:

✔ REAL ID (state license or ID with the star)

✔ U.S. passport or passport card

✔ Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

✔ Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)

✔ U.S. military ID

✔ Other federal or tribal IDs as listed by TSA

If you don’t carry an acceptable ID at the airport, starting February 1, 2026, TSA will charge a non-refundable $45 identity verification fee to try to verify your identity through a special process called ConfirmID. Travelers without proper ID may also face long delays or possible denial of boarding.

Tips for Travelers & Noncitizens

✔ Always check your ID before going to the airport — if you’re 18 or older and don’t have REAL ID, bring your passport or other accepted ID.

✔ REAL ID requirements are enforced for most domestic flights and federal facility entry.

✔ If you’re unsure whether your ID is REAL ID-compliant, look for the star mark or check with your local DMV.

Being prepared with the right identification saves time, avoids fees, and helps you move smoothly through TSA and other federal checkpoints.