Can I use a REAL ID to cross the border into Canada or Mexico?

No. TSA states that REAL ID cards cannot be used for border crossings into Canada or Mexico or for other international travel.

FAQ answer · all states · REAL ID · ID cards · updated October 30, 2026

No. According to TSA's REAL ID FAQ, a REAL ID card is not valid for crossing into Canada or Mexico or for any other international trip; for international travel you still need your passport.

The same FAQ notes that Enhanced Driver's Licenses and Enhanced ID cards, currently issued by only five states (Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington), are an acceptable alternative to REAL ID for purposes such as boarding a commercial aircraft. For border-crossing documents, confirm requirements with the issuing state and with federal travel authorities before your trip.

Sources · checked October 29, 2026

We wrote this summary ourselves from the official pages above on the date shown. Agencies change rules without notice: the official page always wins. DMVorganization.org is independent and not a government agency.

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