A REAL ID is a state driver's license or ID card that meets a federal standard; it is marked with a star in the top corner. Since May 7, 2025, standard (non-compliant) licenses are no longer accepted as identification for domestic flights or entry to most federal buildings. Licenses are issued by the state, and the rules for immigrants vary — so specifics are confirmed on your state DMV's website.
Status as of July 12, 2026. REAL ID is fully in effect: since May 7, 2025, a standard license without a star is not valid for boarding domestic flights or entering most federal facilities. Since February 1, 2026, travelers without an acceptable ID have a paid identity-verification option, TSA ConfirmID ($45 per use) — a backup, not a substitute for a document.
Which immigrants can get a REAL ID
A REAL ID is available to noncitizens with lawful status. At the DMV, an applicant proves identity, an SSN, lawful immigration status, and address (usually two documents), and the DMV verifies status through the federal SAVE system. Qualifying status documents include a green card, an EAD (I-766), or a valid passport with a U.S. visa and an I-94 record. For temporary statuses (a visa, parole, TPS, DACA), many states issue a limited-term REAL ID — generally tied to the period of authorized stay; when the status is renewed, the license is reissued with a new DHS document. Permanent residents (green card) usually get the full term. Applications are in person only, at a DMV office, with original documents.
If a REAL ID isn't available
People without lawful status cannot get a REAL ID. Some states do issue them standard (non-compliant) licenses — marked as not valid for federal purposes; they cannot be used to fly or to enter federal buildings. Requirements vary somewhat by state, but most states issue REAL IDs to noncitizens with confirmed lawful status. For domestic flights, TSA accepts documents other than a REAL ID: a foreign passport, an EAD (I-766), a permanent resident card, and trusted-traveler cards (Global Entry and others). So even without a REAL ID, an EAD is accepted for a domestic flight. How work authorization itself is obtained is covered in the Work Authorization (EAD) section; the difference between an SSN and an ITIN is covered in the SSN and ITIN spoke.
Do you need a REAL ID to drive?
No. A REAL ID is needed for boarding domestic flights and entering most federal buildings, not for driving. To drive, a valid state license is enough — including a standard (non-compliant) one, if the state issues it.
Can you fly domestically without a REAL ID?
Yes, with another accepted document. TSA accepts a foreign passport, an EAD (I-766), a permanent resident card, and trusted-traveler cards. Since February 1, 2026, travelers without an acceptable ID can use the paid TSA ConfirmID identity check ($45).
What does a REAL ID look like, and how does it differ from a standard license?
A REAL ID is not a separate card, but the same state license or ID that meets the federal standard; it is marked with a star (gold, black, or white) in the top corner. A standard license without a star is still valid for driving, but not for federal purposes — flights and entry to federal buildings.
What happens to a REAL ID if a status ends?
A limited-term REAL ID is generally tied to the period of authorized stay and expires with it. The card is valid until the date printed on it; to renew a REAL ID, an updated DHS document extending the status is brought to the DMV.