Locum Travel Guide: Do You Need a REAL ID to Fly in 2026?
As a locum tenens physician, your career is defined by mobility. You are the essential link connecting patients to care, often crossing state lines to step into facilities where you are needed most. Whether you are chasing locum tenens jobs in bustling cities or rural communities, efficient travel is the backbone of your lifestyle.
However, airport security regulations have shifted significantly in recent years. If you are still carrying an old standard driver's license, you might be in for a surprise at the TSA checkpoint. With the enforcement deadline now in the rearview mirror, understanding travel requirements is critical to ensuring you arrive on time for your assignment.
Here is everything you need to know about navigating air travel in 2026 and whether a REAL ID is required for your next flight.
The Verdict: Is a REAL ID Required?
The short answer is: Yes.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officially set the enforcement deadline for May 7, 2025. This means that as we move through 2026, every air traveler 18 years of age and older must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of identification to fly within the United States.
If your license does not have the compliance star in the upper corner, TSA agents will not accept it, and you will not be allowed through the security checkpoint unless you have an alternative form of ID, such as a passport.
What is a REAL ID?
It is important to understand exactly what this document is. The REAL ID Act was originally enacted to set minimum security standards for license issuance and production.
What is a REAL ID? It is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets these heightened federal security standards. You can easily identify one by the star located at the top of the card. This star serves as verification that your identity has been vetted according to federal guidelines.
How to Get a REAL ID
If you have not updated your license yet, you should prioritize this before booking your next round of physician jobs. While you can fly with a passport, having a compliant license is often more convenient for domestic travel.
Getting a REAL ID involves an in-person visit to your state’s driver’s licensing agency (usually the DMV). You cannot upgrade to a REAL ID online. You will typically need to provide original or certified copies of the following documents:
- Proof of Identity: A valid U.S. passport or original birth certificate.
- Proof of Social Security Number: A Social Security card or W-2 form showing your full SSN.
- Proof of Residency: Two separate documents proving your physical address, such as utility bills, bank statements, or a rental agreement.
Note: Requirements can vary by state, so always check your local DMV website before you head out.
Smart Travel Tips for Locum Tenens Physicians
Navigating the airport is just one part of the journey. To ensure your career in locum tenens remains stress-free and successful, consider these best practices for frequent flyers:
- Join Trusted Traveler Programs: If you haven’t already, enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. These programs significantly lessen wait times at security, reducing travel stress.
- Digitize Your Credentials: Keep digital copies of your medical license, DEA registration, and assignment details on your phone. This ensures you are ready for credentialing checks upon arrival.
- Pack for Efficiency: Invest in high-quality carry-on luggage to avoid checking bags. Create a standardized packing list that includes your stethoscope, scrubs, and comfortable travel attire.
- Maximize Rewards: Since you are traveling frequently for work, ensure you are racking up points with specific airlines and hotel chains. These perks can lead to free upgrades and more comfortable stays.
Prepare for Your Next Assignment
Your focus should be on patient care, not on worrying about whether you can board your flight. By ensuring you have a compliant REAL ID or a valid passport, you guarantee that your travel logistics remain seamless.
The world of locum tenens physician work offers incredible flexibility and high earning potential, but it requires preparation. Once your documentation is in order, you are free to focus on what matters most.
If you are ready to explore new opportunities, AMN Healthcare is here to help you navigate the journey. From credentialing support to finding the best locum tenens jobs across the country, we are your partner in career success.
