REAL ID
Also known as: REAL ID-compliant license, federally compliant ID, gold-star ID, star ID
A driver's license or state ID card issued under the federal REAL ID Act, identifiable by a star marking in the upper corner of the card. Since May 7, 2025, a REAL ID (or another approved document such as a U.S. passport) is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility.
Where you'll see real id on this site
Pages that reference this term so you can see it in context.
Practice questions
- When applying for a driver license in North Carolina, what insurance-related document must... · North Carolina practice question
- Where must North Carolina residents go to apply for a REAL ID? · North Carolina practice question
Frequently asked questions
- Can you take the North Carolina permit test online? · North Carolina FAQ
- What documents do I need to get an Oregon driver license? · Oregon FAQ
- What documents do I need for an Illinois instruction permit? · Illinois FAQ
- How much does a New York driver license cost? · New York FAQ
- What documents do I need for a New York learner permit? · New York FAQ
Articles
- How to Pass the Illinois Written Exam on Your First Try · Illinois article
- How to Pass the Nevada DMV Knowledge Test on Your First Try · Nevada article
- How to Pass the Oregon DMV Knowledge Test on Your First Try · Oregon article
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