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As of May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses will be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports in the United States. This means that state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted. Passengers will need to present an alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a state-issued REAL ID, which can be obtained through their state DMV offices. REAL IDs are marked with a small star in the top right corner and have a magnetic strip (barcode) on the back, containing information about the owner and preventing tampering. Digital IDs, such as mobile driver's licenses, are also accepted at over 250 airports and are considered more secure and private than physical IDs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Adults 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint. |
| Acceptable IDs | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued IDs, passports, or other TSA-approved digital IDs. |
| Unacceptable IDs | Temporary driver's licenses, non-REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or state IDs after May 7, 2025. |
| Exemptions | Children under 18 traveling within the U.S. do not need ID, but unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID. |
| Expired IDs | TSA accepts expired IDs up to one or two years after expiration, depending on the ID type. |
| Identity Verification | Without acceptable ID, passengers may undergo an identity verification process, including providing personal information and additional screening. |
| Digital IDs | Digital IDs, such as mobile driver's licenses, are accepted at over 250 airports and must be added to a TSA-approved app or digital wallet. |
| REAL ID Process | The process and required documents vary by state and can be checked on the state's driver's licensing agency website. |
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What You'll Learn
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses are accepted by airport security
- State-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are not accepted
- TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration
- Digital IDs are accepted at 250+ airports
- Children under 18 are not required to provide ID when travelling within the US
REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses are accepted by airport security
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. REAL ID-compliant licenses, on the other hand, will be accepted at airport security checkpoints.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. It prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant IDs for official purposes. This includes TSA airport security checkpoints.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, you must provide proof of identity, a Social Security number, and residency. The specific documents required vary by state, so it is recommended to check with your state's driver's licensing agency. REAL ID-compliant licenses will have a star marking in the top right corner.
In addition to REAL ID-compliant licenses, TSA also accepts other forms of identification, such as passports, state-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs), and digital IDs. Digital IDs are electronic representations of personally identifying information stored on a mobile device and verified through biometric technology. They provide a faster and more secure travel experience while enhancing privacy.
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State-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are not accepted
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. This means that passengers travelling without a REAL ID-compliant license or state ID will need to use another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles. The process of getting a REAL ID and the documents you must provide depends on your state. In most cases, your state driver’s licensing agency will require you to bring proof of identity, proof of a Social Security number, and proof of residency.
If you present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant at TSA checkpoints and do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID, you will be notified of your non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where you may be subject to additional screening.
It is important to note that TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration. Additionally, children under 18 are not required to provide identification when travelling within the United States, although unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
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TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have acceptable ID.
TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date. This applies to the above-listed forms of identification. However, TSA does not consider a temporary driver's license an acceptable form of identification.
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 should 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.
Digital IDs, such as mobile driver's licenses, are also accepted by TSA. They are considered more secure and private than physical credentials. To use a Digital ID at the airport, travellers must 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.
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Digital IDs are accepted at 250+ airports
Digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports, allowing passengers to verify their identity at TSA checkpoints. This means that you can use your digital ID at the majority of TSA checkpoints across the country.
To use a Digital ID, you must first add your acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone. You can do this by using a TSA-approved digital ID app or by adding it to your phone's digital wallet. Examples of digital wallets that are accepted include Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet. Be sure to follow the set-up instructions provided by your device wallet or app before your trip to ensure it is ready to present at TSA checkpoints.
When you reach the TSA checkpoint, you can scan your Digital ID QR code or tap your mobile device on the digital ID reader. If you would prefer not to have your photo taken, notify the TSA officer before presenting your ID. It is important to note that while digital IDs are convenient and secure, you must still carry a physical and acceptable form of ID when traveling.
The use of digital IDs enhances passenger security and experience. Digital IDs are more secure than physical credentials, as they are less susceptible to counterfeiting or fraud. They also offer increased privacy, as you only share the information required to verify your identity. Additionally, digital IDs have the potential to modernize checkpoint screening procedures, reduce points of contact for passengers, and create a more seamless travel experience.
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Children under 18 are not required to provide ID when travelling within the US
When it comes to airport security and identification requirements, it's important to understand the rules, especially when travelling with children. In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines regarding acceptable forms of identification for air travel.
For adults, valid identification is required at the airport checkpoint. This includes REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, passports, and other approved documents. It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs can change, so travellers are advised to check before arriving at the airport.
However, when it comes to children under 18 travelling within the US, the TSA does not require them to provide identification. This means that children under 18 who are accompanied by an adult on domestic flights typically do not need a photo ID. Nonetheless, there may be exceptions, and certain circumstances where a photo ID or official document is requested by the airline or TSA. For example, unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID for expedited screening. Additionally, children ages 15 to 17 may be asked to provide some form of identification, preferably with their photo on it, when travelling alone.
It is always recommended to check with the specific airline or travel carrier, as their policies may vary. Some airlines may have more stringent requirements for travellers under 18. Furthermore, when travelling internationally, including departing from and arriving in the US, all individuals, regardless of age, are required to present a passport, and possibly additional documentation, at various stages of the journey.
With the increasing use of digital technology, the TSA is also moving towards digital identification and facial recognition systems. Passengers can now use digital IDs, such as mobile driver's licenses, which are more secure and private than physical IDs. These digital IDs must comply with specific standards and can be used at participating airports with the passenger's consent.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it must be REAL ID-compliant. From May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant licenses or identification cards will be accepted at airport security.
The REAL ID is a federal requirement for all states, designed to enhance security and prevent identity fraud. REAL ID-compliant licenses have a small star in the top right corner and a magnetic strip (barcode) on the back.
If your driver's license is not REAL ID-compliant, you must present an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, to board a domestic flight.
To obtain a REAL ID, contact your state's driver's licensing agency and provide proof of identity, a Social Security number, and proof of residency.
