Owais Crawford
As of May 2023, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or two forms of valid ID are required for adults aged 18 and over to travel through airports in the US. While a digital ID or a picture of your ID may be accepted at some airports, it is not a guarantee and you may be asked to undergo additional screening or verification processes. It is always recommended to carry a physical, valid government-issued ID when traveling to avoid any potential issues or delays.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is a picture of an ID acceptable at the airport? | No, a government-issued physical ID is required. |
| What are some acceptable forms of ID? | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, U.S. passports, DHS trusted traveler cards, U.S. Department of Defense ID, acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, etc. |
| Are there alternative methods to verify identity? | Yes, TSA PreCheck Touchless ID uses facial recognition technology for identity verification. Digital IDs such as mobile driver's licenses can be used at select airports. |
| Are there exceptions for minors? | Yes, children under 18 traveling within the U.S. do not need to provide identification. However, unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID. |
| What happens if you lose your ID? | A police report or a birth certificate (for domestic travel) can help confirm your identity. Other documents with your name and address, such as a credit card or mail, may also be useful. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA requirements for ID at the airport
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires adult passengers aged 18 and over to show valid identification at the airport in order to travel. Children under 18 are generally not required to provide ID when travelling within the United States, although unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID for expedited screening.
From May 2025, only REAL ID-compliant identification will be accepted at TSA checkpoints at airports. This means that state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of ID. Passengers without a REAL ID must present an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or they may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
The TSA's list of acceptable forms of ID includes:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- US passports
- US passport cards
- DHS trusted traveller cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- US Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognised Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
The TSA also accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration.
Passengers can also use Digital IDs at over 250 airports to verify their identity through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. However, passengers must still carry a physical form of acceptable, compliant ID for verification. Digital IDs are more secure and private than physical IDs, as they reduce the risk of fraud and allow passengers to share only the information necessary for identity verification.
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Digital IDs and facial recognition technology
Passengers at airports are required to show valid identification before they can travel. This usually takes the form of a physical ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now offers a digital alternative through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app.
Digital IDs are an electronic representation of personally identifying information (PII) that may be used to verify the identity of a person. They are more secure than physical credentials, which can be counterfeit or fraudulent, and they also offer more privacy, as only the necessary information is shared with the TSA. To use a Digital ID, passengers must first add their acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to their phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or their phone's digital wallet.
Facial recognition technology is also being introduced at TSA checkpoints to enhance the security screening process. This technology is entirely voluntary, and passengers can decline to have their photo taken without consequence. The technology is used to verify the identity of travelers, ensuring that the person standing at the checkpoint matches the picture on their physical or digital ID. It also helps to streamline the onboarding process, improve accuracy, and enhance the user experience.
The TSA is committed to protecting traveler privacy and civil liberties and ensures that photos are not used for surveillance or law enforcement purposes. They also do not copy or store digital IDs unless in a limited testing environment for the evaluation of facial recognition technology. Digital IDs and facial recognition technology offer a faster, more efficient, and secure way to verify identities at airports.
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What to do if you lose your ID
While it is possible to use a digital ID at more than 250 airports in the US, passengers must still carry an acceptable, compliant, physical ID for verification. This can be done through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app.
If you lose your ID before a flight, it is important to remain calm and courteous. Here are some steps you can take:
- Arrive at the airport as early as possible. Explain your situation to an airline representative at the counter and be prepared to provide additional forms of identification, such as a credit card, photo business card, student ID, or mail with your name and address. The airline representative will work with you to establish your identity and may issue a boarding pass with a note that you don't have an ID.
- Proceed to the security checkpoint and explain your situation to the TSA agents. They will likely take you to a separate area for additional security screening, which may include collecting your personal information, such as your name, address, and other details.
- If you are travelling internationally and have lost your passport, contact the nearest US embassy for assistance in replacing your passport. You can also enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before your trip to make it easier to get help from the embassy while abroad.
- Consider storing a photocopy or digital scan of your identification in a secure location, such as a private Dropbox account, for easy access in case of loss or theft.
- If your ID was stolen, obtain a police report. This will provide proof and confirm your identity.
- Keep in mind that most airlines will not refund tickets for people who missed their flights due to a lost ID.
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ID requirements for children
While the TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States, some forms of ID are recommended and may be required by airlines. Children aged 5 to 14 are encouraged to carry some form of ID, and those aged 15 to 17 may be required to provide identification. Unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. This can include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a state-issued ID card.
If a child is travelling internationally, they will need a passport. If only one parent is travelling with the child, a notarized parental consent form signed by both parents and a copy of the non-travelling parent's passport or valid identification may be required. If a parent has deceased, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the death certificate. If the living parent has sole custody, they may be required to present a copy of the custody agreement signed by both parents.
Children under 2 can fly for free as a lap child on domestic flights, but the airline may require proof of age at check-in. While a passport can be used to prove the child's date of birth, some airlines may require a copy of their birth certificate.
Digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports, with TSA PreCheck Touchless ID using facial recognition technology to enhance the security screening process. Passengers can use their Digital ID through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. However, passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification.
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REAL ID-compliant forms of ID
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. Passengers must either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
To apply for a REAL ID, you will need to bring specific documents to the DMV. These include one proof of identity, such as a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) if you are a non-U.S. citizen. You will also need two proofs of residency, such as a deed, mortgage statement, lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement. In addition, you must provide proof of your Social Security number, if applicable, and proof of a name change if your name appears differently on your proof documents. There is a fee, plus the cost of the driver's license or ID card.
Digital IDs, such as mobile driver's licenses, are now accepted at over 250 airports as a REAL ID-compliant form of identification. To use a Digital ID, you must add your acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet. However, it is important to note that all passengers must still carry an acceptable compliant physical ID for verification.
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Frequently asked questions
No, a picture of your ID will not be accepted at the airport. You must bring a physical copy of your ID. However, you can use a Digital ID at more than 250 airports.
A Digital ID is an electronic representation of personally identifying information (PII) that may be used to verify your identity. It can be added to your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet.
If you don't have a physical copy of your ID, you will need to complete an identity verification process with a TSA officer. This includes providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details.
If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to board your flight. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours ahead of your scheduled departure time to complete the identity verification process if necessary.
Acceptable forms of ID include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, U.S. passport, DHS trusted traveler cards, and state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), among others.
