New federal rules tighten identification at airport security, but certain card‑holders and minors still have a free pass.
Starting May 7, 2025, anyone boarding a domestic flight in the United States must show an ID that meets the Real ID Act. Yet the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirms that several groups can travel with other government credentials or, in some cases, no ID at all.
Who qualifies for Real ID exemptions when boarding domestic flights
Active‑duty service members, retirees, and their families can keep using Department of Defense (DOD) ID cards at the checkpoint. Veterans carrying a Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) also remain covered, and children under 18 may fly without any identification when accompanied by an adult.
Wondering whether your old DD‑1173 still works? TSA agents are trained to accept older blue, pink, or cinnamon DOD cards, even if they lack an expiration date. Ask for a supervisor if an officer hesitates.
Acceptable alternative documents that Transportation Security Administration agents will recognize nationwide
Beyond military IDs, travelers may present Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced IDs (EID) issued by certain states. Both documents embed the same security features required by Real ID, so they clear you for take‑off without extra screening. Who is automatically cleared at TSA checkpoints without Real ID?
- Active‑duty military personnel
- Military retirees and surviving spouses
- DOD dependents holding DD forms in blue, pink, or cinnamon
- Veterans with a VHIC
- Minors under 18 on domestic itineraries
The table below sums up which cards still open the boarding gate:
| Credential | Issued by | Real ID substitute? |
|---|---|---|
| Common Access Card (CAC) | Department of Defense | Yes |
| DD Form 2 / 1173 / 2785 | Department of Defense | Yes |
| Veterans Health Identification Card | Department of Veterans Affairs | Yes |
| Enhanced Driver’s License | State DMV (MI, MN, NY, VT, WA) | Yes |
| Enhanced ID | State DMV (MI, MN, NY, VT, WA) | Yes |
Keep an eye on expiration notices, because TSA may phase out legacy DD cards in future policy updates. However, today those credentials remain valid for both airport security and base access.
What happens if you arrive with the wrong ID? You can request an “identity verification” at the podium. If an officer confirms who you are, you’ll fly—but expect extra pat‑downs and possible delays. Otherwise, you’ll be turned back to the ticket lobby.
In short, most civilians will need a Real ID‑compliant license or passport starting May 7, 2025. Nevertheless, members of the military community and young flyers can still rely on their existing cards, saving a trip to the DMV. Got one of these documents in your wallet? Then you’re already cleared for take‑off.