Savanna Hoffman
International students in the U.S. may be able to use a REAL ID to fly domestically, but it depends on the state they live in and their visa status. From May 7, 2025, all air travelers aged 18 and over will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card to fly within the U.S. However, international students on F or J visas are not eligible for REAL IDs in some states, including Washington. In these cases, international students must use a passport or an alternative form of ID for domestic air travel.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date of implementation | From May 7, 2025 |
| Who does it apply to? | Every air traveler 18 years of age and older |
| Documents required | REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card, or another acceptable form of identification such as a passport |
| Who is not eligible for REAL ID? | International students on F or J visas |
| States issuing EDL/EID | Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington |
| Documents required for international travel | Passport |
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What You'll Learn
International students in Washington must use a passport for domestic air travel
International students in Washington State must use a passport for domestic air travel, as they are not eligible for REAL IDs. This is because only U.S. citizens can obtain a REAL ID-compliant Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EID) in Washington. International students on F or J visas are therefore unable to obtain these enhanced IDs.
From May 7, 2025, every air traveller aged 18 or over will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card to fly within the United States. This is due to the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, which aimed to enhance security standards for state-issued IDs. A REAL ID-compliant license or ID will be indicated by a star at the top, showing it meets federal requirements.
While international students in Washington cannot obtain a REAL ID, standard state driver's licenses and ID cards are available to residents regardless of their immigration status. This means that international students in Washington can still obtain a standard driver's license, which can be used as a form of identification when travelling domestically.
It is worth noting that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. TSA PreCheck is available through Global Entry, which some F-1 students from certain nationalities are eligible to apply for.
For those who are eligible for REAL IDs, it is important to note that REAL IDs cannot be used for border crossings into Canada or Mexico, other international travel, or international sea cruise travel. For international travel, a passport is required.
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REAL IDs are not valid for international travel
International students can use a REAL ID to fly domestically in the US, but they must also carry their passports. TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. Contact the airline for questions regarding their specific ID requirements for travelers under 18. TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and IDs.
REAL IDs are marked by a star. As of October 1, 2020, every state and territory resident has needed to present a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or another acceptable form of identification for boarding commercial aircraft, entering nuclear power plants, and accessing Federal facilities. This includes DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) and U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including IDs issued to dependents.
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. The TSA strongly encourages travelers to check this list again before traveling to ensure they have acceptable ID.
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REAL ID-compliant IDs will have a star at the top
As of May 7, 2025, all air travellers aged 18 and above must have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card to fly within the United States. This means that international students with F or J visas are not eligible for REAL ID-compliant Enhanced Driver Licenses (EDLs) or Enhanced Identification Cards (EIDs). These IDs will have a star at the top, indicating that they meet federal requirements.
REAL ID-compliant IDs are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or an equivalent authority. However, the eligibility criteria for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant ID vary by state. For example, in Washington State, only US citizens can obtain a REAL ID-compliant EDL or EID, while in other states, non-citizens and non-residents may be eligible if they provide two proofs of address.
It is important to note that a REAL ID is not required for international travel. For international travel, individuals will still need a passport. Additionally, a REAL ID is not required for children under 18 travelling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
While a REAL ID is not required for all domestic flights, it is important to check the specific requirements for the state you are travelling from and to. Some states may require a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative form of identification, such as a passport or a state-issued EDL/EID. It is always a good idea to carry a passport when flying domestically, even if a REAL ID is presented, as it serves as a backup form of identification.
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REAL IDs are valid for domestic US flights
Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be mandatory for US travelers looking to board domestic flights and gain access to certain federal facilities. REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) are acceptable forms of identification for flying domestically within the US.
International students with F1 visas have reported being able to fly domestically within the US using only their REAL IDs and driver's licenses. Some students also carry their passports and I-20 forms, but these are not required at TSA checkpoints. However, it is important to note that TSA strongly encourages travelers to check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling to ensure they have the necessary documentation.
To be REAL ID-compliant, a driver's license must meet specific minimum security standards established by the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005. This Act prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards for certain official purposes. As a result, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports starting May 7, 2025.
Passengers who do not have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will need to present another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. It is worth noting that the requirements for obtaining a REAL ID may vary depending on the state, and individuals should check with their state department of motor vehicles for specific information.
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TSA PreCheck is available for F-1 students from certain nationalities
As of May 2025, passengers on domestic flights in the US must be REAL ID-compliant or provide another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport. A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other state photo identity card is issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent).
International students with an F-1 visa can obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license in certain states. It is recommended that you contact your state's DMV to confirm the requirements.
In addition to a REAL ID, international students with an F-1 visa from certain nationalities may be eligible for TSA PreCheck through Global Entry. TSA PreCheck is an expedited security screening process at select US airports. Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers upon arrival in the US.
It is important to note that the TSA PreCheck Application Program is only open to US citizens, US nationals, and lawful permanent residents. However, citizens of certain countries, such as the UK, Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan, and Australia, can apply for Global Entry, which includes TSA PreCheck.
To summarise, while international students with an F-1 visa may be able to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license in certain states, TSA PreCheck is available through Global Entry for those from specific nationalities. It is recommended to check with the TSA and CBP for the most up-to-date information on acceptable forms of identification and eligibility for expedited screening programs.
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Frequently asked questions
International students on F or J visas are not eligible for a REAL ID-compliant Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced Identification Card (EID) in Washington State. However, they can use a passport or EAD for domestic air travel. Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler aged 18 and above will need a REAL ID-compliant ID to fly within the US.
Other acceptable forms of ID include a U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and a U.S. Department of Defense ID.
Yes, children under 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID.
