REAL ID FAQs | Homeland Security (2024)

FAQs

Can I get into Canada with a US REAL ID? ›

REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico or other international travel.

The passport is the ultimate form of ID for travel. It's required for international flights, but it's also accepted as a REAL ID alternative for domestic flights. That said, it's not a bad idea to get a REAL ID, so you don't need to use your passport for domestic travel. Instead, you can keep it safe at home.

Currently, all passengers must continue to have their physical IDs on hand. If a digital ID cannot be verified at the TSA security checkpoint, a passenger must use an acceptable physical identity document (e.g., driver's license, passport) to proceed through the identity verification process.

Can I enter Canada with my birth certificate? While U.S. citizens used to be able to enter Canada with a birth certificate, the country now requires additional forms of photo identification. The following documents are generally accepted at the Canadian border: A U.S. passport.

When you enter Canada, a Canada Border Services Agency officer may ask to see your passport and a valid visa, if one is necessary. If you are a citizen of the United States over the age of 16, you will need a Passport, a Passport Card or Enhanced Driver's Licence (only issued by certain states) to enter Canada.

The major difference is that a Standard driver license or non-driver ID will no longer be accepted as identification to fly within the U.S. after May 6, 2025. The REAL ID looks like your traditional New Jersey driver license or ID, but with a star in the upper right corner.

Price tag: The Real ID costs $35, which is $11 more than a standard New Jersey license or ID, but not all Real ID charges are the same. Expirations: Drivers who make an appointment for within three months of the expiration date on their current license pay $35, and their Real ID will be good for four years.

Appointments are required for: First-time license/permit (REAL ID or standard).

How much does an USA passport cost? ›

Entry into Canada: Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.

But your social security card is not valid ID. It used to say so right on the card. A birth certificate is not valid ID. You can't get on the plane.

In the event you arrive at the airport without proper ID, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. By providing additional information, TSA has other ways to confirm your identity, like using publicly available databases, so you can reach your flight.

In the Wallet app , you can securely store identity cards such as your driver's license or state ID, student ID, and employee badge (must be issued by a participating state, school, or office). You can easily present your identity card with your iPhone or Apple Watch.

Travel by land or water

a valid passport. a Trusted Traveler Program card. an enhanced driver's licence (EDL) or enhanced identification card (EIC) from a province or territory where a U.S. approved EDL/EIC program has been implemented.

When visiting another country as a U.S. citizen: Your state driver's license is valid while driving in Canada and Mexico. In other countries, you may need to get an IDP for foreign drivers.

The NEXUS program offers a convenient and efficient way for eligible travelers to cross the border, and remains a valuable Trusted Traveler Program. The application process involves an online application, a risk assessment, a fee and an interview.

As of April 26, 2022, lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must show the following documents for all methods of travel to Canada: a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document) and. a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)