Airports And Driver's Licenses: What You Need To Know

As of May 7, 2025, all US domestic air passengers aged 18 and over must show a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued ID at the airport to be allowed to fly. This is part of the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to enhance the security standards for the issuance of driver's licenses and IDs. Mobile driver's licenses (mDLs) are also accepted at TSA airport security checkpoints in 27 airports across 11 states, including Arizona, California, and New York.

Mobile driver's licenses are accepted at TSA airport security checkpoints

Mobile driver's licenses (mDL) are accepted at TSA airport security checkpoints. An mDL is a digital representation of a physical driver's license issued by a state and is typically installed through a smartphone application. The mDL is stored in a digital wallet, much like how many users store their physical credit cards on their smartphones. To establish the validity of the mDL and a person's identity, the user's smartphone is either tapped against an mDL reader or scanned under the reader.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has published a final rule in the Federal Register that allows passengers to use mDLs for identity verification at TSA airport security checkpoints. This rule is consistent with TSA's efforts to enhance the passenger experience and improve security efficiency. The rule allows states to apply for a temporary waiver of certain REAL ID requirements, and once approved, those state mDLs will be accepted at TSA airport security checkpoints.

It is important to note that TSA currently accepts mDLs issued by 11 states at 27 participating airports, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, New York, Ohio, and Utah. The goal is to expand the technology nationwide and accept mDLs in all airports.

For adult passengers 18 and older, a valid identification, such as a driver's license or other acceptable forms of ID, is required at the airport checkpoint for travel within the United States. Beginning May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs or licenses used for flying within the US must be REAL ID-compliant.

REAL ID-compliant licenses are required for US air travel from May 7, 2025

As of May 7, 2025, all US air travelers aged 18 and over must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another form of identification to board a domestic flight. This requirement was set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as part of the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress after the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Act mandates that states increase the security of driver's licenses and ID cards by requiring applicants to provide proof of identity and legal US residency, as well as incorporating counterfeit-resistant security features.

The REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or IDs are typically identifiable by a star in the upper-right corner, or they may say "Enhanced". If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you can check with your state department of motor vehicles. It is important to note that this requirement only applies to domestic flights within the US and that a passport can be used as an alternative form of identification.

Other acceptable forms of identification for US air travel include a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a permanent resident card, a DHS trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST), or a U.S. Department of Defense ID. It is worth noting that a weapon permit or a temporary driver's license is not considered acceptable identification.

The REAL ID requirement for air travel has been delayed several times, with the DHS citing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the ability of motor vehicle departments to process the new credentials. The latest delay was announced in December 2022, pushing the enforcement date from May 2023 to May 7, 2025. This extension aims to provide individuals with more time to obtain the necessary identification and prevent potential travel disruptions.

TSA accepts expired IDs up to a year after expiration

For US residents, a valid ID is required for air travel. This includes driver's licenses and state-issued IDs. From May 7, 2025, all ID presented at US airports must be REAL ID-compliant. This means that non-REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or state IDs will no longer be accepted for domestic flights.

However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) currently accepts expired IDs for air travel, up to one year after the expiration date. This applies to various forms of identification, including driver's licenses and state-issued IDs. So, if your driver's license has expired within the last year, you can still use it as a valid form of ID at the airport.

It's important to note that this policy only applies to domestic flights within the US. For international travel, a valid passport is required, and some countries require passports to be valid for up to six months after travel dates. Additionally, starting May 7, 2025, all US state and territory residents aged 18 and above must present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification for domestic air travel. This can include a driver's license, but it must be REAL ID-compliant.

If you don't have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or your ID has expired more than a year ago, you may still be able to fly by presenting another form of acceptable identification, such as a valid passport. Alternatively, if you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may be able to undergo an identity verification process with a TSA officer, which includes providing information such as your name and address.

Children under 18 don't need ID when travelling within the US

When it comes to airport identification requirements, adult passengers aged 18 and older must present valid identification at the airport checkpoint in the United States. This can include a driver's license or other acceptable forms of ID. However, the rules are different for children under 18 when travelling within the US.

In most cases, children under the age of 18 do not need to provide identification when travelling domestically within the United States. This means that if you are travelling with your child within the US, they will not need a photo ID to pass through security or board the plane. Instead, they will only need a boarding pass and need to be accompanied by an adult. This applies to minors between the ages of 2 and 18, as children under the age of 2 can fly as a lap child for free on domestic flights.

It is worth noting that each airline may have its own specific ID requirements for travellers under 18, so it is recommended to contact your airline well in advance of your travel date to determine their policies. While it is not required, some airlines may request additional documentation, such as a birth certificate or a notarized consent letter from a non-travelling parent.

Although children under 18 may not need ID when travelling within the US, it can still be beneficial to have some form of identification for them. This could include a printed copy of their birth certificate, a passport, or even a photo of their passport on your phone. Having some form of ID for your child can come in handy in various circumstances and provide peace of mind during your travels.

In summary, while drivers' licenses are accepted at airports for adults, children under 18 generally do not need to provide ID when travelling within the US. However, it is always a good idea to check with your specific airline and be prepared with some form of identification for your child if needed.

If you arrive without acceptable ID, you may still be allowed to fly

It is possible to fly without a valid ID, but it is not recommended. From May 7, 2025, the TSA will enforce stricter ID requirements, and a standard driver's license may not be sufficient for domestic flights.

If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly, but you must complete an identity verification process. This involves providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details to confirm your identity. The TSA officer will check this information against certain databases to verify your identity. It is recommended that you arrive at least two to three hours early if you need to complete this process.

If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to proceed to the security screening, where you may be subject to additional screening. However, if you decline to provide the necessary information, do not cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be permitted to enter the security checkpoint.

While it is possible to fly without a physical ID, having one is always recommended. As of May 7, 2025, only Real ID-compliant driver's licenses will be accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. To obtain a Real ID-compliant license, you must provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate, passport, social security card, and proof of residence. This enhanced license will be marked with a star or a gold bear with a white star in the upper corner.

In addition to a Real ID-compliant driver's license, other acceptable forms of ID for domestic flights include a U.S. passport or passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), a permanent resident card, a foreign government-issued passport, and more. For international flights, it is highly recommended to carry a passport.

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