Roberta Aguirre
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 without REAL ID-compliant identification will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. TSA-acceptable forms of identification include a U.S. passport, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a DHS trusted traveler card, or a U.S. Department of Defense ID.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I use a passport as ID at the airport? | Yes, a passport is an acceptable form of ID at the airport. |
| REAL ID compliance | A passport is REAL ID-compliant. |
| TSA requirements | TSA accepts passports as ID. |
| Alternative forms of ID | Other acceptable forms of ID include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued ID, or Global Entry Card. |
| ID for minors | Minors under 18 are not required to provide ID when traveling within the U.S., but unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID. |
| Expiration | TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA's stance on passport cards
The TSA's stance on passport cards is that they are an acceptable form of identification for air travel within the United States. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers. However, it is important to note that a passport card cannot be used for international air travel, only for certain land and sea crossings.
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 will need to 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.
The TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have the proper documentation. It is also important to note that TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration.
Additionally, TSA offers a Digital ID option, which is an electronic representation of personally identifying information that can be used to verify an individual's identity. This requires the use of a TSA-approved digital ID app or a mobile device's digital wallet, and the set-up process must be completed before travelling.
It is worth noting that there have been reports of confusion among TSA agents regarding the acceptance of passport cards as REAL ID-compliant documents. However, the official TSA website and other sources confirm that passport cards are considered REAL ID-compliant.
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REAL ID-compliant documents
As of May 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 will need to 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.
- 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 Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passports
- U.S. passport cards
- 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)
If you are unsure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. It is important to note that a temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification.
FAS citizens may present one of the following REAL ID-compliant documents:
- An unexpired passport, with a valid, unexpired visa (if applicable), and approved I-94
- An unexpired employment authorization document
- A previously issued REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card, along with a valid passport and I-94 as acceptable evidence of lawful status
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Identification for minors
A passport is a valid form of identification at the airport. However, the specific requirements may vary depending on factors such as the traveller's age, flight details, and the country of issuance.
For minors under the age of 18 travelling within the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require them to provide identification when accompanied by an adult. They only need a boarding pass to board the plane. However, unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must present acceptable identification to receive expedited screening. In this case, it is recommended to contact the airline directly to inquire about their specific ID requirements for travellers under 18.
For international travel, requirements may differ. Some countries or airlines may require minors to have a passport or other forms of identification. It is always a good idea to carry some form of identification for minors during travel, even if it is not strictly required. Additionally, certain airlines may have specific forms or consent letters that need to be completed by parents or guardians when minors are travelling alone. These forms often include information about the individuals dropping off and picking up the child at the airport.
It is important to note that the list of acceptable forms of identification is subject to change without notice. Therefore, it is recommended to check the latest requirements with the relevant authorities, such as the TSA or the state department, before travelling to ensure compliance with the necessary identification requirements.
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Identity verification processes
Identity verification is an essential part of airport security and is required for air travel. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific requirements for acceptable forms of identification. While the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change, as of May 7, 2025, the TSA will no longer accept state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant. This means that passengers will need to present an alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID.
REAL ID-compliant forms of identification include a driver's license with REAL ID compliance, a state-issued photo identity card, a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, and certain trusted traveler cards like Global Entry and NEXUS. For non-U.S. citizens, a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) can be used as proof of identity. It is worth noting that a temporary driver's license is not considered acceptable identification.
In some cases, additional identity verification processes may be required, even with acceptable ID. This may involve providing information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity. If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be permitted to enter the security screening checkpoint.
It is always recommended to check the latest acceptable forms of identification before travelling to ensure you have the necessary documentation. Additionally, it is worth noting that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States, although certain airlines may have specific requirements for travellers under 18.
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International travel requirements
In the United States, the TSA strongly encourages travellers to verify the list of acceptable IDs before arriving at the airport. While a U.S. passport is generally accepted as a valid form of identification, there may be specific requirements for REAL ID compliance. 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 who do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID can use a valid passport or one of the other acceptable forms of identification, such as a DHS trusted traveller card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) or a U.S. Department of Defense ID.
It is important to note that some forms of identification, such as temporary driver's licenses or passport cards, may not be accepted at TSA checkpoints. Additionally, the TSA may require additional screening or identity verification processes, even for passengers with acceptable forms of ID. Unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must also show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
To avoid any delays or issues during security screening, travellers are advised to carry a valid passport or other acceptable forms of identification specified by the relevant authorities. It is also recommended to check with the specific airline for any additional ID requirements, especially for travellers under the age of 18. By following these international travel requirements and staying informed about the latest acceptable forms of identification, travellers can ensure a smoother journey through airport security checkpoints.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a passport is an acceptable form of ID at the airport.
Other acceptable forms of ID include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued ID card, a DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and a U.S. Department of Defense ID.
If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, you may be directed to a separate area for additional screening to verify your identity.
TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date.
