Real ID Requirements for Private Jet Travel: What You Need to Know Before May 2025

Flying private is about ease, flexibility, and time well spent. But even in the world of private aviation, certain government regulations still apply — including the new REAL ID requirements coming into full enforcement on May 7, 2025.

Whether you charter flights or are an Outlier Jets Jet Card Member, here is everything you need to know to ensure a seamless travel experience.

What Is the REAL ID Act?

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification cards. The goal: create a more uniform and secure system to verify identity at federally controlled facilities, including airports.

After multiple extensions, enforcement is officially scheduled to begin May 7, 2025. This impacts every domestic traveler age 18 and older, whether flying commercially or privately.

Does REAL ID Apply to Private Jet Flights?

Yes. While charter flights typically depart from private terminals (FBOs) and may not involve TSA-style checkpoints every time, TSA identification rules still govern who is allowed airside.

If you’re traveling domestically, you will need either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative form of identification.

How to Tell If You Have a REAL ID

Look at your driver's license or state-issued ID:

• REAL ID-compliant cards typically feature a gold or black star in the upper right corner.
• If your ID lacks the star, it likely is not compliant.

If you are unsure, visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for specific guidance.

Acceptable Alternatives to a REAL ID

If you do not yet have a REAL ID-compliant license, several other documents are acceptable for domestic travel, including:

• A valid U.S. passport
• A U.S. passport card
• A foreign government-issued passport
• A U.S. permanent resident card (Green Card)

Carrying a passport for domestic flights can feel unusual, but it’s a smart backup if your state ID is not compliant.

What Happens If You Don't Have a REAL ID or Acceptable ID?

Without a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or an acceptable alternative, you may be denied access to the secure areas of the airport — even at private terminals. That could mean missing your scheduled flight and disrupting your plans.

At Outlier Jets, our goal is to ensure your travel is as smooth as possible. We encourage all Members to verify their documentation well before their next flight.

Quick Checklist: How to Prepare
 

✅ Check your ID for the star.

✅ Apply for a REAL ID or obtain an alternative ID if needed.

✅ Bring your compliant ID on every domestic flight.

✅ When in doubt, carry your passport as a backup.

How Outlier Jets Supports You

Our Member Services Team is always ready to assist if you have questions about upcoming flights or document requirements. While we cannot verify the validity of your ID documents, we are happy to direct you to official resources and help plan alternative arrangements if needed.

For more information, you can also visit the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID page.

Ready to Fly? Contact your Outlier Jets Member Services Representative to plan your next seamless private travel experience.

Disclaimer: Outlier Jets provides this information for the convenience of our members. It is the traveler’s sole responsibility to ensure possession of compliant identification before travel. Outlier Jets does not guarantee boarding access and is not responsible for travel disruptions resulting from non-compliant documentation.