Can you fly without a REAL ID after the May deadline?

(NEXSTAR) — In less than a month, those looking to fly domestically in the U.S. will need a new form of identification: a REAL ID. But what if you don't have a REAL ID by the May 7 deadline?

First, don't panic. You may already have a REAL ID-compliant identification card, or another form of identification that can get you on a plane.

Here's what you need to know about flying with — and without — a REAL ID ahead of the May deadline.

What is a REAL ID?

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 in light of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, instituting a national minimum requirement for state driver’s licenses and ID cards. States must now at least require proof of your legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, legal residency, and two forms verifying your address before issuing a driver’s license or ID card.

This thereby created the REAL ID-compliant state identification cards.

These IDs are required for domestic flights, to visit certain federal facilities, and to enter nuclear power plants, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

What does a REAL ID look like?

Many states have been issuing REAL ID-compliant IDs for years, which means you may already have one.

Simply put, if you have a star on your driver's license or state ID card, you're already in compliance with the REAL ID guidelines. That star may look different based on your state. It will either be black or gold, a star or a cut-out of a star, or, if you live in California, a cut-out star in a bear. This sample Kansas driver’s license, for example, has a gold circle with a white star cut-out.

How do I get a REAL ID?

For most Americans, getting a REAL ID should be relatively easy. At minimum, you’ll need to provide documentation that shows your full legal name, your date of birth, your Social Security number, two proofs of address for your principal residence, and your lawful status.

Four documents — your birth certificate and your Social Security card (or, in some cases, just the number), plus a bill and a pay stub — could help you meet all of those requirements. You may, however, need different or additional documents depending on your situation.

Ultimately, you’ll want to check with your local DMV to determine qualifying documents and roughly how long it will take for your REAL ID to be available. If you have additional questions about REAL IDs, you can visit TSA’s website, DHS’s website, or contact your local DMV.

Do I need a REAL ID?

Really, it's up to you, and it varies based on your situation.

REAL IDs are optional. You will not need a REAL ID to drive, vote, apply for federal benefits like Social Security, enter a federal facility that otherwise does not require an ID (like a post office), go to a hospital, or “participate in law enforcement proceedings or investigations,” like jury duty.

If you have a domestic flight planned, a REAL ID is recommended. They cannot be used to cross into Mexico or Canada, and you will still need a passport for international travel, plus any relevant visas.

If you do not have a REAL ID and have a domestic flight planned for departure after the May 7 deadline, don't panic: You can use another approved form of identification to board your flight. The TSA lists several on its website, including a passport or passport card, a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (four states issues these), a photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, or a Veteran Health Identification Card, among others.

The TSA notes that even if you arrive at the airport without a valid form of identification, you may still be able to fly by completing an identity verification process with a TSA officer.

Children under the age of 18 do not need to provide identification while flying within the U.S.