Lois Larson
If you're over the age of 18, you must show valid identification at the airport to travel. The list of acceptable IDs varies per country and state, but generally, a school ID is not considered a valid form of identification for airport security. In the US, TSA-acceptable IDs include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), a passport, or a military ID. Children under 18 travelling within the US are not required to show ID, but airlines have their own rules about children and IDs, so it's best to check with the airline. Some airlines may accept a school ID if the school is recognised by the government, but this is not always the case.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is a school ID acceptable for TSA? | No, TSA does not accept school IDs. |
| What are acceptable IDs? | TSA accepts REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued IDs, passports, visas, etc. |
| Are there any exceptions for school IDs? | Yes, school IDs may be accepted if the school is a government-recognized educational institution. |
| Are there age restrictions for ID requirements? | Yes, TSA does not require IDs for travelers under the age of 18. Those 18 and older need a government-issued ID. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA requirements for minors
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, this only applies if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Unaccompanied minors are required to show an acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, to receive expedited screening.
Children aged 12 and under can keep their shoes and coats on during standard TSA screening. They may also accompany a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck status in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction. Children aged 13-17 must have the TSA PreCheck logo on their boarding pass to be eligible for TSA PreCheck. To receive the TSA PreCheck logo, they must be on the same reservation as a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck status. If minors are not travelling on the same reservation as a parent or guardian with TSA PreCheck, they will need their own TSA PreCheck status to access PreCheck security lanes.
TSA has developed modified screening procedures for children who appear to be 12 years old and younger. TSA officers will consult parents or the travelling guardian about the child's screening. Standard screening procedures apply for children 13 years and older. All passengers, regardless of age, must have their carry-on property screened. If a child has a disability, medical condition, or medical device, the TSA officer must be informed. Parents or guardians may carry their child through the metal detector. The TSA officer will not remove a child from their mobility aid, wheelchair, or scooter.
Breast milk, formula, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (including puree pouches) are allowed in carry-on baggage in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 millilitres. These items do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag. Breast milk and formula cooling accessories, such as ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs, are also allowed. Passengers may inform the TSA officer if they do not want these items X-rayed or opened, and additional steps will be taken to resolve alarms.
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School ID for international flights
For international flights originating in the US, the TSA requires that adult passengers aged 18 and over show valid identification at the airport checkpoint. This includes US citizens and non-US citizens. The TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the US, but individual airlines may have their own rules about children and identification, so it is important to check with the airline before travelling. For international flights, passports are always required.
The TSA has a list of acceptable forms of identification, which includes US passports, enhanced driver's licences, military IDs, permanent resident cards, and state-issued photo identity cards. School IDs are not on this list and are therefore not considered acceptable identification for international flights. However, if the school is a government-recognised educational institution, a student photo identity card may be accepted. It is always best to contact the airline directly to confirm acceptable forms of identification.
In the case of an individual without acceptable identification, the TSA and the airline can work together to verify the individual's identity and allow them to pass through security. This may involve answering questions and providing other forms of identification, such as credit cards. However, it is important to arrive at the airport early, ideally 1.5 to 2 hours in advance, to allow enough time for this process.
It is worth noting that the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. Therefore, passengers are strongly encouraged to check the list before travelling to ensure they have the proper identification. For international flights, it is always a good idea to have a passport as a form of identification.
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Acceptable IDs for adults
For US domestic travel, adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport to be allowed through security and to board the plane. The list of acceptable IDs can change, so it is always best to check before travelling. However, some commonly accepted forms of ID for adults include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards
- US Military ID
- Enhanced driver's licenses (proof of US citizenship)
- Passports
The TSA will accept expired IDs for up to two years after their expiration date. If you do not have acceptable identification, you may be prevented from entering the secure area of the airport, or you may be delayed while your identity is verified. This can include answering questions and additional checks of your luggage and electronic devices.
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State-issued IDs
In some cases, individuals without acceptable ID may still be allowed to fly. If a passenger does not have an acceptable ID, arriving at the airport early is recommended. TSA and airline officials may work together to verify the individual's identity and allow them to proceed through security. However, passengers without acceptable identification may be directed to a separate area and may be subject to additional screening.
While state-issued IDs are valid for adult passengers, children under 18 travelling within the US do not need to provide identification. They only need a valid boarding pass. However, each airline has its own rules regarding children and ID requirements, so it is essential to check with the specific airline before travelling. Additionally, passports are always required for international flights, regardless of age.
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Alternatives to ID
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 either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. Passengers who do not have an acceptable form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
The TSA requires adult passengers aged 18 and older to show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to travel. However, the TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. Unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck, however, must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. It is recommended that travellers contact the airline for questions regarding their specific ID requirements for travellers under 18.
The following are some acceptable alternative forms of ID for adult passengers at airports:
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveller cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued photo ID, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
In addition to these forms of ID, it is worth noting that some airlines may accept other forms of identification, such as school IDs or certain bank photo IDs, especially for unaccompanied minors. It is always best to contact the airline directly to confirm their specific ID requirements.
Furthermore, while not a substitute for valid identification, having photos of your IDs stored on your phone can be a handy alternative in case your physical ID is lost or stolen during your trip. These photos can also help you prove your identity at hotels or other places with reservations.
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Frequently asked questions
No, school IDs are not considered acceptable identification at the airport.
Acceptable forms of ID at the airport include:
- Passport
- Driver's license
- State-issued ID card
- Military ID
- Enhanced driver's license
- Visa
Yes, the ID requirements for domestic and international flights differ. For international flights, a passport is always required. For domestic flights, some airlines may not require passengers to present a photo ID. However, it is always best to check with the airline beforehand.
Yes, children under 18 travelling within the United States do not need to show ID at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints, but they must present a valid boarding pass. However, airlines may have their own rules regarding ID requirements for minors, so it is important to check with the specific airline.
