Lois Larson
If you're travelling with a child, you may be wondering what documents you need to bring to the airport. In general, international travel requires a passport, while domestic travel requires a birth certificate if your child is under the age of 2 and will be a lap child. However, some airlines may have different requirements, so it's always best to check with your specific airline in advance. For example, Southwest Airlines always requires a copy of the birth certificate or a government-issued photo ID for lap children, while Spirit Airlines may request documented proof of age for any traveller aged 2 or under. So, while a birth certificate may be sufficient for some domestic travel, it's important to be aware of the specific requirements of your airline and destination to ensure a smooth journey.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Spirit Airlines requirements for children under 2 | Spirit Airlines requires documented proof of age for any traveller 2 years old or younger. |
| Children under 2 years old are considered "lap children" and do not need a paid seat. | |
| Spirit Airlines may request a birth certificate, passport, or other documentation as proof of age. | |
| TSA requirements for children under 2 | TSA requires valid identification for all passengers 18 and older. |
| TSA recommends checking the list of acceptable IDs before travelling, as it is subject to change. | |
| TSA does not accept state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant as of May 7, 2025. | |
| For domestic travel, a birth certificate is generally required for children under 2 who do not have a passport. | |
| Acceptable forms of identification for boarding a U.S. domestic flight include airline- or airport-issued ID under a TSA-approved security plan. | |
| Other considerations | Some airlines, such as Southwest Airlines, require a copy of the birth certificate or government-issued photo ID for lap children. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA requirements for birth certificates
For TSA PreCheck® enrollment, the TSA provides guidance on the acceptable birth records on its Birth Certificate Guidance page. However, the specific requirements are not publicly available.
In terms of TSA requirements for identification at checkpoints, the TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration for the listed forms of identification. Children under 18 travelling within the United States are not required to provide identification; however, specific airlines may have their own requirements. For example, Southwest Airlines always requires a copy of the birth certificate or government-issued photo ID at check-in for children flying as lap children. For international travel, a passport is always required, and for domestic travel, a birth certificate is generally required for children under the age of 2 who are lap children. Some airlines may request additional documentation, such as a notarized consent letter from a non-travelling parent.
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 airports. Passengers should carry an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top of the card.
Other TSA-accepted forms of identification include:
- 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)
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Unexpired U.S. Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Unexpired Enhanced Identification Card (EID)
- Permanent Resident Card (I-551) or "Green Card"
- Unexpired Foreign Passport and Immigrant Visa with I-551 annotation
- Original or certified copy of a document issued by a Federal, State, Tribal, county, municipal authority, or outlying possession bearing an official seal
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International travel with a birth certificate
For children under the age of two travelling as lap children, some airlines may accept a birth certificate as a form of identification for domestic travel. However, international travel typically requires a passport, even for infants. In the case of international travel with children, it is essential to contact the appropriate authorities to understand the specific documentation required. This may include a passport, visa, or other forms of identification, such as a government-issued photo ID.
In the United States, for example, children travelling alone or with only one custodial parent may need additional documentation, such as a letter of consent from the other parent. This requirement may vary depending on the country of destination or transit, so it is crucial to consult the relevant embassy or consulate for specific instructions. Additionally, the U.S. government has specific requirements for birth certificates to be accepted as valid forms of identification, including the full name of the individual, the signature of a city or state official, and the seal of the issuing authority.
It is worth noting that some airlines, such as Southwest Airlines, may require a birth certificate or government-issued photo ID for lap children during check-in. Therefore, it is always recommended to be prepared with the necessary documentation to avoid any delays or issues during travel. Spirit Airlines, for instance, reserves the right to request documented proof of age for any traveller aged two or younger, and they may ask for a birth certificate or passport upon request.
While birth certificates can be used as a form of identification in certain circumstances, it is generally advisable to carry a passport or other accepted forms of identification when travelling internationally to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Each country has its own rules and regulations regarding acceptable travel documents, so thorough research and preparation are crucial before embarking on international travel.
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Domestic travel with a birth certificate
For domestic travel, a birth certificate is generally only required if your child is under the age of 2 and flying as a lap child. Some airlines may request additional documentation, such as a notarized consent letter from a non-traveling parent. It is important to check the specific requirements of the airline and your destination well in advance of travel to ensure you have the necessary documents. While some airlines are more lenient than others, it is always best to come prepared. For example, Southwest Airlines always requires a copy of the birth certificate or a government-issued photo ID at check-in if you want your child to fly as a lap child. Spirit Airlines also reserves the right to request documented proof of age for any traveler 2 years old or younger, so you should be prepared to provide documentation (birth certificate, passport, etc.) upon request.
The TSA has specific requirements for acceptable forms of identification for boarding a U.S. domestic flight, and a birth certificate is not specifically listed as an accepted form of ID for adults. However, for minors between the ages of 2 and 18 travelling with an adult, a birth certificate may be sufficient, as they do not need a photo ID to board a plane. Since exact requirements may vary by airline, it is recommended to contact your carrier directly if you have any questions or concerns.
It is important to note that the TSA does not accept Birth "Registration" or "Notification" Cards, or Birth Registration/Certificate of Birth Registration records as valid forms of identification. Only long-form U.S. state/territory-issued certified/sealed Birth Certificates or similar documents that meet the requirements of a Birth Certificate are accepted. For travel to or from a U.S. territory, the identification must contain a clear photo, date of birth, gender, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature.
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Spirit Airlines' specific requirements for children
When travelling with children, it's important to be aware of the specific requirements of your chosen airline. Here are the key things to know about travelling with children on Spirit Airlines:
Unaccompanied Minors
Spirit Airlines defines unaccompanied minors as children aged 10 to 14. These children can travel alone on direct domestic flights, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, but they must use the Unaccompanied Minor (UMNR) service. This service costs \$150 each way, in addition to the flight ticket price. Unaccompanied minors are not permitted on international flights or routes requiring aircraft changes.
Documentation
Spirit Airlines requires parents or legal guardians to provide travel documents for all children, regardless of age. For international flights, a valid passport is required as proof of citizenship, along with any necessary visas. For domestic flights, a birth certificate or other identification may be required. Spirit Airlines may also request proof of the relationship between the minor and the accompanying passenger to prevent child abduction.
Lap Children
Spirit Airlines allows infants aged 7 days to 23 months to travel as lap children without purchasing a seat. However, guests may opt to buy a seat for the infant if they prefer. One stroller and one car seat per child can be checked for free.
Age Verification
Spirit Airlines may request documented proof of age for unaccompanied minors to ensure they are at least 10 years old. Acceptable forms of identification include a birth certificate, passport, or government-issued ID. For children flying as unaccompanied minors, the responsible drop-off and pick-up adults must provide a government-issued photo ID.
It is always recommended to check the latest requirements and guidelines directly with the airline before travelling with children.
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Other forms of ID accepted by TSA
While birth certificates are accepted for children under the age of 2 travelling as lap children, adults will need other forms of ID to get through airport security.
The TSA currently accepts the following forms of identification:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). REAL ID-compliant cards are marked with a star at the top.
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID).
- U.S. passport or passport card.
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST).
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents.
- Acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766).
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential.
Expired IDs are accepted up to two years after expiration. However, as of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports.
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Frequently asked questions
Spirit Airlines may request documented proof of age for any traveller 2 years old or younger. You should be prepared to provide documentation, such as a birth certificate or passport, upon request.
Yes, for domestic travel, a birth certificate is generally required if your child is under the age of 2 and flying as a lap child.
No, as long as a minor between the age of 2 and 18 is travelling with an adult, they will not need a photo ID to board a plane.
Some airlines may request additional documentation, such as a notarized consent letter from a non-travelling parent, for international flights. It is important to check the specific requirements of the airline and destination well in advance of travel.
The TSA has specific requirements for accepted birth certificates. They must be long-form, state/territory-issued, certified/sealed, and meet certain document requirements.
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