Cincinnati /
Northern KentuckyInternational Airport

REAL ID is now in effect. As of May 7, 2025, you must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card—or a valid U.S. passport—to board a domestic flight.Not sure if your ID is compliant?It’s easy—just look for the star. Driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs from Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana that are REAL ID compliant will have a star in the upper portion of the card. Already have a valid U.S. passport?You’re good to go.Avoid travel delays—check your ID before heading to the airport.Real-ID Compliant License (with star)An example of a Kentucky Real ID compliant driver’s license. Source: KY Transportation CabinetNOT Real-ID CompliantExamples of non-compliant licenses. Source: KY Transportation CabinetWhat if I don’t have a star on my ID or a valid passport?You will need to visit a licensing facility that can issue a Real ID compliant form of ID. Here’s a link to locate an office near you based on the state where you reside:Ohio\https://www.bmv.ohio.gov/dl-real-id.aspxKentucky\https://drive.ky.gov/Pages/Find-An-Office.aspxIndiana\https://www.in.gov/bmv/licenses-permits-ids/real-id-overview/It’s important to note that many licensing locations are different from those you may have visited previously (county clerk, etc.) Some facilities may accept reservations for an appointment.Are there documents I need to have to get a Real ID?Yes! Each state has provided a handy guide of what you’ll need to bring along.[Ohio](https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/publicsafety.ohio.gov/bmv2430.pdf)\[Kentucky](https://drive.ky.gov/Drivers/Documents/ValidProofDocuments.pdf)\[Indiana](https://www.in.gov/bmv/files/BMV_Documentation_List.pdf) Make your security screening smooth by ensuring your Real ID ready!Is a passport, Real ID driver’s license, or Real ID identification card the only thing that will get me on my flight?There are a few other documents that the Department of Homeland Security will accept including: - U.S. passport card (available when you renew a passport)- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents- Permanent resident card- Border crossing card- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).- HSPD-12 PIV card- Foreign government-issued passport- Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card- Transportation worker identification credential- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)A complete list is available [here](https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification).Do my kids need a Real ID?Nope. Kids under 18 don’t have to show identification when traveling with a companion within the United States. (A friendly reminder that trips abroad, including cruises, require a passport for everyone regardless of their age.)In addition to a Real ID compliant form of identification, your passport is also acceptable.They didn’t give me an ID right away after I left the office like I’ve received in past renewals, what’s up with that?That’s normal. They will give you temporary paperwork printed at the office and your official identification will arrive in the mail.Ok, so the big question: what if I don’t have a Real ID and I show up for a flight?As an eternal procrastinator, I wondered the same thing. So, I went straight to the source – the Department of Homeland Security. Here’s what they say: Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID compliant and who do not have another acceptable alternative (i.e. Passport) can expect to face delays, additional screening, and the possibility of not being permitted into the security checkpoint.And from the TSA: In the event you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification (whether lost, stolen, or otherwise), you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening. You will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you choose to not provide acceptable identification, you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed. TSA recommends individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least three hours in advance of their flight time. In short: there’s a chance you could miss your flight or not be allowed past security at all.Before you head to the runway, head to your local licensing office!What if I have more questions?The Department of Homeland Security has a list of detailed FAQs posted [here](https://www.dhs.gov/real-id/real-id-faqs). You can also reach out to your state’s driver’s license office.Do you have a really great travel tip or love to visit a special place and you think we should share with the Tri-State? Tell me all about it! You can reach me at @JayKruzOfficial on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/JayKruzOfficial), [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/jaykruzofficial/), and [X](https://twitter.com/jaykruzofficial). -Jay

Updated: April 24, 2025Some locations may surprise you!In 2025, Dunkin’® will help fuel CVG Airport travelers; the shop known for its coffee, donuts, and breakfast sandwiches will open new locations in Concourse A and Concourse B. And to keep things fresh for travelers on the go, Dunkin® will be preparing fresh donuts at the airport. As the excitement builds for the opening of the airport’s newest dining option, travelers should keep in mind that CVG values providing passengers with many options; coffee is no exception. Several dining establishments and other locations at CVG sell coffee, and some may surprise you.Concourse AGraeter’s Ice Cream (Gate A13)Graeter’s Ice Cream may not be the first place you think of for a warm, comforting drink; however, the Cincinnati-based ice cream parlor has fresh-brewed coffee and hot chocolate that pairs nicely with locally made donuts and Danish rolls. CVG’s Graeter’s location has an expanded espresso and coffee menu that includes an affogato, a traditional Italian shot of espresso paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.Braxton Brewing Company (Gate A14)This local brewery teamed up with a local coffee shop, Deeper Roots Coffee, to offer passengers high-quality and ethically-sourced coffee that can be mixed with a shot of alcohol if desired. Braxton customers can purchase hot or iced coffee. To further support local businesses, you can also purchase a bag of coffee grounds to go.More Concourse A coffee options include the following.- Subway- Blaze Pizza- Illy Coffee (in the vending area, near the escalators)- Frisch’s Big Boy- Christian Moerlein Tap HouseConcourse BSkyline Chili (Concourse B Food Court)CVG was the [first Skyline Chili location to offer breakfast](https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1TwMQGDmLg/), and nothing goes better with a Breakfast Chilito than Skyline’s diner-style drip coffee. The famous Cincinnati chili chain also boasts the Breakfast Way, Breakfast Coney, Breakfast Burrito, and more on its unique CVG menu.SAMBAZON® Açaí Bowls (Gate B19)This fresh, fast, and nutritious [açaí bowl shop](https://www.cvgairport.com/blogs/item/new-healthy-food-option-at-cvg-is-berry-delicious/) provides an expansive menu for health-conscious travelers, and organic, Fair-Trade certified coffee is on that list. If you’re looking for a powerful energy punch, you can pair the coffee with a nutrient-packed açaí bowl or a warm oatmeal bowl.More Concourse B coffee options include the following.- Bruegger’s Bagels- Chick-fil-A- Wendy’s- Tap & Pour Gastropub- Illy Coffee (near Gate B15)- Regina’s Italian KitchenThe next time you’re at CVG, we encourage you to try something new. In addition to a wide variety of coffee options, the airport [has many choices for of your dining needs](https://www.cvgairport.com/shop-dine-relax/), with more locations to come in 2025 and 2026.