REAL ID enforcement at U.S. airports started on May 7, 2025. Since then, to board a domestic flight you need a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card, or another document TSA accepts, such as a U.S. passport book or passport card.
Which one do you need?
| Trip | REAL ID | Passport card | Passport book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic flight | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Land or sea to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, Caribbean | No | Yes | Yes |
| International flight | No | No | Yes |
Getting a REAL ID in California
REAL ID cards are issued by the state, through the California DMV, not by passport offices. Passport books and cards come from the State Department through the 583 acceptance facilities on this site.
Passport card
A first adult passport card costs $30 plus the $35 acceptance fee; book and card together cost $160 plus $35 (fees). Apply as in how to get a passport, at offices in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Sacramento and Fresno.
Questions
Can I fly within the U.S. with a passport instead of REAL ID?
Yes. TSA accepts a valid U.S. passport book or passport card at airport security.
Can I use a REAL ID to fly abroad?
No. International air travel requires a passport book.
Sources
- U.S. Department of State, Passport Fees (updated October 9, 2025; checked November 6, 2026)
- U.S. Department of State, Get My Passport Fast (checked November 6, 2026)
- U.S. Department of State, Passport Forms
- U.S. Department of State, Passport Acceptance Facility Search (California offices, retrieved July 2026)
- TSA, REAL ID and California DMV
Independent guide, not a government website. Rules can change; the State Department has the final word.