Real ID Travel Guide

by IDL Support

Traveling in the United States often involves juggling airports, security checkpoints, and, for many, car rentals each requiring proper identification. With the REAL ID deadline now in effect and a host of non-government IDs floating around (passports, International Driving License, Global Entry cards), it can get confusing. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to stay compliant, avoid delays, and hit the road worry free.

What Is REAL ID USA?

REAL ID Act Origins 

  • Enacted by Congress in 2005 in response to 9/11 Commission recommendations to strengthen identification standards.

  • Establishes minimum security standards for state issued driver’s licenses and ID cards.

Compliance Deadline

  • As of May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must present a REAL ID compliant credential to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities. 

How to Spot a REAL ID

  • Look for a gold or black star in the upper corner of your license or ID.

  • “Enhanced” or flag graphic indicates Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) with land/sea border crossing privileges.

Why REAL ID Matters to Travelers

TSA Security Screening 

  • Beginning May 7, 2025, TSA agents will enforce REAL ID rules at airport checkpoints. Non compliant IDs will lead to secondary screening or denied boarding.

Federal Facility Access

  • REAL ID is also required to enter federal buildings (e.g., courthouses, archaeological sites) that enforce federal ID rules.

Impact on Car Rentals

  • REAL ID is not required to rent a vehicle; rental companies look for a valid government issued driver’s license plus acceptable secondary ID.

Using Non-Government IDs for Car Rentals

1. Primary Requirement: Valid Driver’s License

  • Acceptable if issued by any U.S. state, territory, Canadian province, or a 1949 Geneva Convention country.

  • Must remain valid throughout the rental period.

2. Secondary ID Options

At airport locations, you may need:

  • Round trip airline ticket or itinerary.

  • U.S. passport or military ID.

  • Utility bill (60-day), insurance card.

Off airport: similar secondary ID, often utility or bank statements.

3. International Driving License (IDL)

  • Valid only with your original foreign license.

  • Not acceptable by itself for rental or TSA screening.

Combining REAL ID and International Driving license

1. Scenario A: Flying In, Driving Out

  • Present REAL ID (or passport) at TSA.

  • At car rental desk, show your foreign license and International Driving License (no REAL ID needed for rental).

2. Scenario B: Domestic Travel Only

  • REAL ID suffices for flights; rental desk requires only state license and secondary ID.

3. Scenario C: Over Border Road Trips

  • Use Enhanced ID or passport for land crossings; International Driving License and license for local rentals abroad.

Renting a Car in the USA with an International Driving License

Rental Agency Requirements

  • Valid home country driver’s license plus International Driving License.

  • A credit card in the renter’s name.

ID vs. Driving Credentials

  • Rental agencies focus on your driver’s license and International Driving License for driving eligibility, not Real ID compliance. However, you will still need a compliant ID (or alternative) for air travel if flying domestically.

Tips for Smooth Rentals

  • Present your passport at pick-up if not using a state license.

  • Confirm age requirements (most agencies require more than 25 or add young driver fees).

Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience

Double-Check IDs

  • Verify star marking or “Enhanced” flag on your license weeks before travel.

Carry Backups

  • Photocopy or photograph your IDs store securely in encrypted cloud storage.

Schedule Early

  • DMV appointment slots fill quickly as deadlines approach.

Contact Rental Company

  • Confirm location specific ID requirements online or via phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need REAL ID to rent a car?

  • No. Car rental companies accept any valid government issued driver’s license plus an acceptable secondary ID.

Can I use an International Driving License at TSA?

  • No. TSA does not accept an International Driving License alone. You must provide a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or other TSA approved document.

My state issues “Not for Federal Identification” licenses. What now?

  • Those are non-compliant (e.g., AB60 in California). You’ll need a passport or REAL ID for flight and federal access.

How to Obtain an IDL

Applying for an International Driver's License (IDL) is a straightforward process that allows you to legally drive in foreign countries. Here's how you can obtain one:

  • Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for obtaining an International Driver's License. Requirements may but the most important one is that you must have your national or local driver's license issued by your county or state of origin, and it should be valid.

  • Complete Application: Obtain the necessary application form from following the next link: https://www.international-license.com/pages/apply-now 

  • Pay Fees: Pay the required fees for processing your IDL application. Fees may vary depending on the issuing authority and processing time.

  • Submit Application: Submit your completed application form along with any supporting documents following their specific instructions.

  • Receive IDL: Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your International Driver's License.

Remember to carry both your international driving permit and your original driver's license whenever you're behind the wheel. Double-check that your details match those on your valid driver's license to avoid any discrepancies. Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the necessary documents, submit them to the licensing authority along with any applicable fees.

APPLY HERE!

Cost of an International Driver's License

The costs of obtaining an International Driver's License are the following:

1 YEAR VALIDITY: USD 39,99
2 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 54,99
3 YEARS VALIDITY: USD 69,99

USA SHIPPING
USPS 6-10 DAYS: FREE
EXPRESS 3-4 DAYS : USD 15
OVERNIGHT 2-3 DAYS: USD 35

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
EXPRESS INTERNATIONAL 4-8 DAYS : USD 29.99

As of 2025

Before applying for an IDL, it's essential to check the fee schedule on the official website https://www.international-license.com/pages/pricing-for-the-international-drivers-document

Conclusion and Action Checklist

Your Pre-Travel To Do List:

  • Confirm REAL ID compliance or gather passport.

  • Acquire International Driving License (if using a foreign license).

  • Make DMV appointment and submit documents.

  •  Check car rental ID policies for pickup location.

  • Pack primary plus secondary IDs and digital backups.

Securing the right form of identification is crucial for travelers in the United States. While an International Driving License ensures you can legally drive and rent cars, Real ID USA compliance (or an acceptable alternative such as a passport or Enhanced Driver’s License) is mandatory for domestic air travel and accessing federal facilities as of May 7, 2025. Follow the steps outlined above to obtain the necessary ID, and enjoy stress-free journeys whether you’re cruising on Route 66 or catching a flight between major cities. Safe travels!

 

 

 

 

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