Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require all travelers flying domestically in the U.S. to present a REAL ID. A REAL ID is a driver’s license, learner permit, or non-driver ID (like a passport) that is federally compliant, meaning that it meets stricter security standards. REAL IDs will also be required to enter certain federal buildings. Learn more about how to get a REAL ID here.
In New York, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license is demarcated with a star or an American flag in the upper right corner. Given the new REAL ID travel requirements, you are no longer able to use a standard IDNYC for domestic travel, however, your IDNYC, a municipal ID available to all New York City residents, ages ten and up, regardless of their immigration status, is still valid for many other purposes.
Here’s what you need to know:
- As of May 7, 2025, travelers flying domestically in the U.S. will be required to present a REAL ID, a passport, or another TSA-approved document
- Your standard IDNYC is still valid for many services in New York City
- Your standard IDNYC will not automatically expire on May 7, 2025 just because of new REAL ID travel requirements
- TSA does not check your immigration status at the airport
What forms of ID will allow me to fly domestically?
Starting Wednesday May 7, 2025, you will not be able to fly within the U.S. using a just a standard IDNYC. You must show one of the following documents to board a domestic flight:
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- A REAL ID-compliant state ID or license
- A valid passport
- A DHS-approved document (like a green card or work permit)
Non-passport foreign documents, such as consular cards, are not generally accepted as valid identification when boarding a domestic U.S. flight. For a complete list of TSA-accepted IDs, click here.
Note: As of Tuesday May 6, 2025, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said that travelers without a federally recognized document would not be barred from flights. They will be allowed to travel, however, they will have to go through additional screening.
Will my standard IDNYC expire if I don’t upgrade to a REAL ID?
No. Your standard IDNYC remains valid for non-federal purposes until its printed expiration date.
Your IDNYC is not linked to the federal REAL ID program, so it will not expire just because of the new REAL ID travel rules.
Can I still use my standard IDNYC after May 7, 2025?
Yes. Your IDNYC is a municipal ID card, which means it’s issued by New York City and can still be used for several services like:
Does my child need a REAL ID to fly domestically in the United States?
No. Children under 18 years of age generally do not need a REAL ID to fly domestically in the United States. The TSA does not require identification from minors when traveling with an adult. However, adults accompanying children while traveling must present a valid form of identification, including a REAL ID, valid passport, or other federally approved document.
Will TSA agents check my immigration status if I show a foreign passport?
TSA is not an immigration enforcement agency. Their primary goal is security, not checking your citizenship status. If your passport is valid and accepted for travel, you should not be asked about your immigration status.
TSA agents may refer cases to other agencies if something about your documents raises concern.
Is it safe to travel with a foreign passport if I’m undocumented?
Many undocumented immigrants travel with valid foreign passports. It is generally safe to do so, especially on domestic flights, as long as the passport is valid and not expired.
That said, it’s important to acknowledge that there is a heightened immigration crackdown happening right now, under the Trump Administration, and U.S. border officials are using more aggressive tactics at ports of entry.
There’s always a risk when traveling if you’re undocumented, especially near borders or when law enforcement is involved.
I am an undocumented immigrant. Is it safe for me to go to the DMV to apply for a REAL ID?
In New York State, the DMV offers Standard (non-federal) IDs and driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. Under the Green Light Law, the DMV is restricted from sharing applicants’ information with federal immigration authorities.
Learn how to apply for a REAL ID here and learn more about how to obtain a standard IDNYC here.
