Lois Larson
When travelling, it is important to know when and where to present your passport. Generally, you will need to show your passport at check-in, and then again at the security checkpoint. However, the specific requirements may vary depending on the country and airport. For example, in the US, passengers are required to present a REAL-ID compliant form of identification, such as a passport, at TSA checkpoints. In some cases, you may not need to show your passport at security if you have already presented it at check-in. It is recommended to keep your passport on your person at all times while travelling and to present it when asked.
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What You'll Learn
Keeping your passport safe at airport security
The process of going through airport security can be stressful, especially if you're worried about losing your passport. The good news is that airports have many security measures in place to ensure your passport remains safe. Here are some tips to keep your passport secure as you navigate airport security:
Keep your passport on your person
Some travellers suggest keeping your passport in your hand as you go through security. This way, you can keep an eye on it at all times. However, some airports require you to pass through the metal detector without anything in your hands or pockets, so check the specific rules of the airport you're travelling through. If you're unable to keep your passport in your hand, consider placing it in a secure pocket or a zipped bag.
Place your passport in a bin
If you need to place your passport in a bin to go through the X-ray machine, rest assured that it will be monitored at all times. Security officers deliberately watch which bin belongs to each passenger, and there are also cameras and other officers tracking the process. While some travellers express concern about placing their passport in a bin, others argue that it's unlikely anyone would attempt to steal a passport with so many security measures in place.
Show your passport when necessary
At certain airports, you may be asked to show your passport at the security checkpoint. However, this is not a standard requirement, and most of the time, you will only need to show your boarding pass. If you're unsure, pay attention to the instructions given by the security personnel at the airport.
Be aware of varying procedures
It's important to note that security procedures can vary between airports. Some travellers report being asked for their passport at certain airports but not at others. To avoid any confusion, stay alert and follow the instructions provided by the airport staff.
Keep your passport secure throughout your journey
After you've passed through security, continue to keep your passport in a safe place. Consider using a passport wallet or a secure pocket to prevent loss or theft during your travels.
Remember, while it's important to be vigilant, airport security measures are designed to keep your belongings, including your passport, secure. Follow the instructions provided by the airport staff, and don't be afraid to ask for clarification if you're unsure about any procedures.
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When to show your passport
When travelling, it is important to always carry your passport on your person. You will need to show your passport at various points during your journey, and it is your responsibility to ensure it is accessible when asked for.
Check-in
If you are checking bags, you will likely need to show your passport at check-in. However, if you have hand luggage only and have already checked in online, you may be able to skip this step.
Security
Some sources state that you will need to show your passport at security, while others claim that security checks are not always necessary, and a driver's license or other valid ID may be presented instead. However, it is worth noting that some countries or airlines may have specific requirements, and it is always best to carry your passport with you.
Boarding
You will almost certainly need to show your passport when boarding an international flight, along with your boarding pass. Some sources suggest that this check can happen at the gate before boarding, while others state that the passport is checked when boarding the plane. It is recommended to keep your passport in your hand during this process, rather than placing it in a bin with other belongings, to reduce the risk of loss or theft.
Immigration
Upon arrival at your destination, you will need to show your passport to immigration officials. This is where you may also need to present other documentation, such as a visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA).
Hotels, Car Rentals, etc.
Outside of the airport, you may need to show your passport when checking into a hotel, renting a car, or during other activities that require identification.
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Valid forms of ID at TSA checkpoints
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at TSA checkpoints. Passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening.
The following are acceptable forms of ID at TSA checkpoints:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
- Foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp, or with a temporary I-551 printed notation on a machine-readable immigrant visa (MRIV) with a DHS admission stamp, within the stated validity period
- DHS Form I-94 or Form I-94A with a photograph and an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp
- U.S. Department of State Form DS-232, Unrecognized Passport or Waiver Cases, with a temporary I-551 printed notation on a machine-readable immigrant visa (MRIV) with a DHS admission stamp and validity period
TSA currently accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration for the above-listed forms of identification. Children under 18 travelling within the United States do not need to provide identification, however, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
In addition to providing valid identification, passengers may be asked to present their boarding pass at TSA checkpoints. Some airports require passengers to hold their boarding pass as they pass through the walk-through metal detector. It is recommended to keep your boarding pass out at the screening checkpoint unless you are specifically told otherwise by the TSA security screening personnel.
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Where to keep your passport when passing through security
There are differing views on where to keep your passport when passing through airport security. Some sources suggest keeping your passport in your hand as you walk through the security checkpoint, while others recommend placing it in a bin with your other belongings to be scanned.
If you choose to keep your passport in your hand, be aware that you may be asked to present it to the ticket checker upon entering the screening area. Some airports also require you to hold your boarding pass as you pass through the metal detector. In this case, you can keep your passport and boarding pass together in your hand or pocket, so you don't accidentally lose either one.
If you prefer to place your passport in a bin, you can put it together with your boarding pass, wallet, and other personal items. This way, you can keep all your important documents in one place and easily retrieve them after the scan. It is generally safe to place your passport in the bin as there are multiple security measures in place, including cameras and officers tracking the bins, to ensure the safety of your belongings.
Additionally, some airports may require you to remove your passport from its holder and place it directly into the scanning machine. In this case, you will need to briefly let go of your passport, but it will be returned to you immediately after the scan.
It is important to note that the procedures for airport security may vary across different airports, so it is always a good idea to check with the specific airport or the TSA for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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The airline's responsibility to validate your passport
It is the responsibility of the airline to validate your passport at check-in to ensure it is valid for the duration of your trip. This can be done at the check-in counter or online with validation at the gate by an agent. Airlines have a carriage responsibility to assure you meet the passport requirements, or they may have to fly you home at their cost.
When going through security, you will need to show your ID and boarding pass. This can be your passport, but it can also be any government-issued ID that meets federal requirements. For example, in the U.S., TSA officers will accept a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. However, it is important to note that not all state driver's licenses are accepted.
For international flights, you will generally need to show your passport when boarding the plane. This is the airline's last chance to ensure you have all the necessary travel documents required for your destination. If your documents are not valid, the airline may be fined, and they will have to fly you back at their cost.
It is always a good idea to carry your passport with you when travelling, as you may need to present it at various points during your journey. Ultimately, it is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct documentation for your trip, and you must check the specific requirements for your destination.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you need to show your passport at the airport. You will need to show it at check-in and boarding, and possibly other times as well. It is best to keep it on your person at all times while travelling.
For international flights, a valid passport is the most common form of identification. For domestic flights, you can carry a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other state photo identity card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent).
You will be asked to place personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone into a separate bin for X-ray screening. You may also be subject to a full-body scan or walk-through metal detector scan.
Security measures at the airport include screening of passengers, baggage, and cargo. TSA screeners can search you and your baggage at checkpoints but cannot arrest you. Other law enforcement officers, such as airport police, are also present at airports.
