Real ID vs Passport - FAQ's

The REAL ID is a federally standardized version of your state-issued ID or driver’s license. After May 7, 2025, you’ll need it to board domestic flights and enter certain federal buildings — unless you have a valid passport or other TSA-approved ID.

Nope. Not at all. A REAL ID has nothing to do with your passport. You can apply for a New Passport or Renew Passport without it.

Yes, as long as you have a valid U.S. Passport, Passport Card, or other TSA-accepted identification. So if you’re traveling soon and don’t want to deal with the DMV, just use your passport.

Definitely not. A REAL ID only works for domestic flights and federal sites. A passport gets you into other countries and works as a REAL ID replacement. If you want full travel freedom, a passport is the better investment.

If you ever plan to travel internationally (and let’s be honest, even to Mexico or Canada), get a passport. You can skip the DMV lines and let us handle everything with our expedited passport service.

As long as you have a valid passport, you’re covered. If you don’t — don’t panic — we can help with emergency passport services that deliver in as little as 24 hours. Seriously.

It looks almost exactly like your current driver’s license, but it has a gold star in the corner. If it doesn’t have that star, it’s not REAL ID compliant.

Children under 18 don’t need a REAL ID (or any ID) to fly domestically with an adult who has compliant ID. For international travel, kids do need their own Minor Passport.

Yes. Your passport is a federally issued form of ID. It’s valid for domestic flights, international travel, and federal access. As long as your passport is valid, you won’t need a REAL ID.

You’ll need to make an appointment with your state DMV, bring proof of identity, residency, and a few other documents. It’s a bit of a process. If you’d rather avoid that hassle and just get a passport, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you need a New Passport, Passport Renewal, Name Change, or Child Passport, we’ll help you get it fast — and you’ll never have to worry about REAL ID rules again.

Got questions? Text or call us anytime at 855-347-2445 — we’re here to help.