Legal · Important documents

Getting a state ID or driver's license

A state ID or driver's license is the card you'll show most often: for a job, a bank account, an apartment, and the airport. For flying, it has to be REAL ID-compliant, which you can spot by the star marking. Bring the right documents the first time.

Moderate1–3 hours, including the office visit$–$$Checked October 2, 2026

What to know

Check your state's driver's licensing agency website first. It lists exactly which documents it requires, and states can add requirements. Source: DHS
Gather the documents. For a REAL ID, you'll need at least proof of your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address and lawful status. Source: DHS
Ask for a REAL ID-compliant card if you'll fly. Compliant cards have a star marking. Source: DHS
Go to the office, or make an appointment if your state offers them. Check whether your state wants original documents or certified copies before you go.
Keep your temporary paper license if they give you one, but don't count on it at the airport. TSA doesn't accept a temporary driver's license as ID. Source: TSA

Watch out Since May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant card (or another accepted ID, like a passport) to board domestic flights and enter some federal buildings. Source: DHS Since February 1, 2026, travelers without an accepted ID can pay a $45 fee to use TSA ConfirmID. Source: TSA

If it doesn't work

Missing a document? Check your state's agency site for what it accepts instead. See Getting a copy of your birth certificate and Replacing a Social Security card.
No bills in your name yet? Ask your state agency which proofs of address it accepts. Requirements vary by state. Source: DHS
ID expired? TSA currently accepts the listed IDs up to two years after they expire. Source: TSA Renew it anyway. Banks and employers may not accept it.

Good to know

Enhanced licenses

Enhanced Driver's Licenses from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York and Vermont are accepted in place of a REAL ID, even though most don't have the star. Source: DHS

For a new job

On the I-9 form, you can show one List A document (like a U.S. passport), or one List B document for identity (like a state driver's license or ID card) plus one List C document (like a Social Security card or a certified birth certificate). Source: USCIS

Under 18 and flying

TSA doesn't require ID for travelers under 18 within the U.S., but airlines may have their own rules. Source: TSA

Sources

U.S. Department of Homeland Security REAL ID frequently asked questions
U.S. Department of Homeland Security REAL ID
Transportation Security Administration Identification
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Form I-9 acceptable documents

Lesson L1.3 · Last checked October 2, 2026 against the sources listed.

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