Roberta Aguirre
While most airports require a federal- or state-issued photo ID to get through the checkpoint, there are alternative ways to confirm your identity and board your flight. This is because the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) understands that, given the number of people flying every day, there need to be workarounds. In this case, the TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal details. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, but you may be subject to additional screening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is it possible to pass airport security without picture identification? | Yes, it is possible but difficult. |
| What are the alternative forms of identification? | Military IDs, permanent residence cards, credit cards, Costco cards, school IDs, library cards, checkbooks, photos of IDs, digital IDs, etc. |
| What if I don't have any alternative forms of identification? | TSA has other ways to confirm your identity, like using publicly available databases. |
| What if my identity cannot be verified? | You will not be allowed to pass through airport security. |
| What if I have a digital ID? | You can use a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet. |
| Is facial recognition technology mandatory? | No, it is voluntary. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA identity verification process
The TSA strongly encourages all adult passengers (18 and over) to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling and to ensure that they have acceptable ID before arriving at the airport. From May 3, 2023, only REAL ID-compliant forms of identification will be accepted at TSA checkpoints. These include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards
- U.S. passports
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Federally-recognised Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued photo ID
If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, there are other ways to confirm your identity and be allowed to fly. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport early at least two hours ahead of your flight's scheduled departure time to allow for the identity verification process. You will need to provide information including your name, current address, and other personal details. The TSA officer will then attempt to confirm your identity against a database. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to go through security screening. If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to board your flight.
To speed up the identity verification process, you can provide the TSA officer with additional forms of identification, such as:
- A credit card
- A business card with your photo on it
- Mail or prescription medication with your name and address on the label
- Voter registration
- A library card
- A birth certificate (only in conjunction with other documents)
Digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports, and can be used to verify your identity through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet. However, passengers must still carry a physical form of ID for verification.
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Alternative forms of ID
While a federal- or state-issued photo ID is required to fly, it is still possible to pass airport security without one. In such cases, the TSA will employ other ways to confirm your identity, such as using publicly available databases. This process may take a while, so it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours ahead of your scheduled departure time.
- Credit cards, especially those with your photo on them
- Costco or Sam's Club membership cards
- School IDs, especially those with your photo, date of birth, or address
- Library cards
- Checkbooks
- Digital IDs or mobile driver's licenses, which are available in some states
Even if you don't have any of the above alternative forms of ID, there are still other ways to help confirm your identity:
- Bring a photocopy or digital scan of an acceptable form of ID
- Provide a police report if your ID was stolen
- Bring a birth certificate, especially if used together with other documents
- Provide additional personal information, such as your name, current address, and other personal details
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International travel without ID
For international travel, a valid ID is required to pass airport security. Passengers aged 18 and above must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint. The list of acceptable IDs may vary and is subject to change without notice. It is recommended to check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling.
In the case of a lost, stolen, or forgotten ID, there are alternative ways to confirm your identity and proceed with your flight. Firstly, it is important to arrive at the airport well in advance, as the identity verification process may take some time. A TSA officer will ask for information such as your name, current address, and other personal details to confirm your identity against a database. If your identity is successfully verified, you will be allowed to proceed through security screening. However, you may be subject to additional screening measures.
To support the identity verification process, you can provide a photocopy or digital scan of an acceptable form of ID. Additionally, a credit card, business card with your photo, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, or even a library card can strengthen your case during the verification process. If your ID was lost or stolen, bringing a police report can also help confirm your identity and protect against identity theft.
For adults, a birth certificate alone is not sufficient for flying, but it can be used alongside other documents to confirm your identity. It is important to note that the requirements for international travel may differ from those for domestic travel within the US. When traveling internationally with children, they will need a passport, and it is recommended to carry a copy of their birth certificate as proof of age.
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Digital IDs and facial recognition
While it is possible to pass airport security without a physical picture identification, it is important to note that adult passengers aged 18 and older are typically required to show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. This could include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued photo identity card, or a passport.
However, in cases where individuals do not have their physical ID, there are alternative methods to verify their identity. For instance, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) uses digital ID and facial recognition technology for identity verification. With the individual's consent, TSA officers employ biometric cameras to assist in identity verification. This process is voluntary, and individuals can choose to decline the photo and request the standard ID verification process. Digital IDs stored on mobile devices are considered more secure and private than physical IDs, reducing the risk of fraud and enhancing user convenience.
Additionally, digital IDs can be integrated with mobile applications, self-service desktop portals, and scanning kiosks, further streamlining the identity verification process. This technology has been developed over the years, with companies like NEC offering advanced facial recognition systems for secure authentication. These systems use facial recognition, face matching, and liveness detection to verify identities.
Facial recognition technology has become increasingly prevalent, with applications in various sectors, including banking, healthcare, and travel. For instance, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices in some US states were among the first to adopt automated facial recognition systems, preventing individuals from obtaining multiple driving licenses. This technology is also used in passport verification and border control in several countries.
In summary, while picture identification is typically required for air travel, advancements in digital ID and facial recognition technology provide alternative methods for identity verification, enhancing security and convenience for travelers.
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TSA-approved forms of ID
As per the latest TSA guidelines, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as valid identification at airports from May 7, 2025, onwards. Passengers without a REAL ID-compliant ID or an acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. If a passenger's identity cannot be confirmed, they will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state 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 or U.S. 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.
- U.S. Citizen Identification Card (I-179 or I-197).
- Expired U.S. passport within 12 months of expiration (only as proof of citizenship, not as a primary document).
In the case of domestic travel within the US, children do not need an ID to fly if they are accompanied by an adult with an acceptable form of ID. However, airlines may ask for proof of a child's age, so carrying a copy of the child's birth certificate is recommended. For international travel, a passport is required for children.
If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. TSA officers can use other ways to confirm your identity, such as an identity verification process that collects your name, current address, and other personal details. Bringing a police report in case of lost or stolen ID can also help confirm your identity. Additionally, a photocopy or digital scan of an acceptable form of ID can be shown to the TSA officer. Other documents that can support your case during the identity verification process include a credit card, a business card with your photo, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, or a library card.
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Frequently asked questions
If you arrive at the airport without valid identification, you may still be allowed to fly. Make sure you arrive at least two hours before your flight and enter the security line as normal. You will have to complete an identity verification process, providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal information. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.
Alternative forms of identification include credit cards, Costco cards, school IDs, library cards, checkbooks, and photos of your IDs. It's important to note that these alternative forms of ID only apply to domestic travel. International trips require a passport or passport-like document.
Digital IDs are electronic representations of personally identifying information that can be used to verify an individual's identity. They are more secure and private than physical credentials, as they reduce the risk of fraudulent documents. To use a Digital ID, add your eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone using a TSA-approved app or your phone's digital wallet.
