Jazmin Li
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. While a voided ID is not considered a valid form of identification, individuals without valid identification may still be allowed to fly if their identity can be verified. This typically involves arriving at the airport at least 2 hours early and undergoing an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is a voided ID accepted at the airport? | No, a voided ID is not accepted at the airport. However, TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration. |
| What to do if you don't have a valid ID? | If you don't have a valid ID, you will need to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the flight and go through the ID verification process. |
| What documents can be used for ID verification? | Credit card, business card with your photo on it, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, library card, police report about missing ID, etc. |
| What type of IDs are accepted at the airport? | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state photo identity cards, passports, DHS trusted traveler cards, Department of Defense ID, permanent resident cards, foreign government-issued passports, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
- If you don't have a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly, but you will need to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early and go through an identity verification process
- The TSA accepts several other forms of ID for domestic travel, including a passport, passport card, permanent resident card, and foreign government-issued passport
- If your ID is expired, the TSA may still accept it up to two years after its expiration date
- If you have a temporary driver's license, it may not be accepted as a valid form of identification
- If you are renting a car, a voided driver's license may present a bigger issue
If you don't have a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly, but you will need to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early and go through an identity verification process
If you don't have a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly, but it will depend on whether your identity can be verified by a TSA officer. According to the TSA, passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport to travel. However, in some cases, if you arrive at the airport early and go through an identity verification process, you may be allowed to fly without a valid ID.
The identity verification process involves providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details to confirm your identity. This process can be lengthy and take a significant amount of time, so it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours early if you don't have a valid ID.
During the identity verification process, the TSA officer will attempt to confirm your identity against a database. If your identity is successfully verified, you will be allowed to proceed through the security checkpoint and board your flight. However, you may be subject to additional screening measures, such as a pat-down and screening of carry-on property.
It is important to note that the TSA has specific requirements for acceptable forms of identification, which are subject to change. While they may accept expired IDs up to two years after expiration, temporary driver's licenses, or voided IDs are generally not considered acceptable forms of identification. It is always recommended to check the TSA's list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure you have the proper documentation.
To increase your chances of successful verification, it is advisable to bring as much supporting documentation as possible. This can include a credit card, a business card with your photo on it, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, or even a library card. Filing a police report for your missing ID can also be helpful. While not guaranteed, these additional forms of identification can strengthen your case during the verification process.
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The TSA accepts several other forms of ID for domestic travel, including a passport, passport card, permanent resident card, and foreign government-issued passport
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 a REAL ID-compliant ID will need to present an alternative form of ID, such as a passport, passport card, permanent resident card, or foreign government-issued passport. These alternative forms of ID are also accepted by the TSA for domestic travel.
The TSA recommends that passengers check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling to ensure they have the correct documentation. In addition to the forms of ID mentioned above, the TSA also accepts DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. Department of Defense IDs (including dependent IDs), and acceptable photo IDs issued by federally recognized Tribal Nations/Indian Tribes, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).
It is important to note that the 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 an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. For specific requirements regarding travelers under 18, it is recommended to contact the airline directly.
In some cases, individuals without acceptable forms of ID may be allowed to undergo an identity verification process with a TSA officer. This process may include providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details. However, if your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. Therefore, it is always best to ensure you have acceptable identification before arriving at the airport.
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If your ID is expired, the TSA may still accept it up to two years after its expiration date
As per the official guidelines by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), adult passengers aged 18 and above must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. However, in certain cases, the TSA may still accept expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date. This provision applies to the listed forms of identification, which include REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, U.S. passports, passport cards, and more.
It is important to note that this acceptance of expired IDs is subject to change without notice. The TSA strongly recommends that travellers check the list of acceptable IDs before arriving at the airport to avoid any issues. Additionally, passengers who present non-compliant identification may be directed to a separate area and may be subject to additional screening.
If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID requirements, it is advisable to check with your state department of motor vehicles. It is worth mentioning that temporary driver's licenses are not considered acceptable forms of identification by the TSA.
In the absence of an acceptable form of ID, travellers can support their identification verification process by presenting other documents, such as a credit card, business card with a photo, mail or prescription medication with their name and address, voter registration, or even a library card. While these do not replace the need for valid identification, they can strengthen your case during the verification process.
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If you have a temporary driver's license, it may not be accepted as a valid form of identification
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 carry acceptable alternative forms of ID, such as a passport, or a state-issued REAL ID, which can be obtained through their state DMV offices. If a passenger presents a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant and does not have another acceptable alternative form of ID, they will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
It is important to note that TSA requirements for acceptable forms of ID are subject to change without notice. Therefore, passengers are strongly encouraged to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have the required documentation.
Additionally, TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date. They also do not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States, although unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
In some cases, individuals have been allowed to fly with a voided ID or without any ID by undergoing the identity verification process. However, this may involve additional screening and scrutiny, and there are no guarantees of success. It is always recommended to arrive at the airport early to allow sufficient time for the verification process if necessary.
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If you are renting a car, a voided driver's license may present a bigger issue
A voided ID may be sufficient to pass through airport security, but it could cause delays. Passengers without a valid ID will be asked to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as their name and current address. This process can be lengthy, so it is recommended that travellers with voided IDs arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight.
It is worth noting that some car rental companies may have relationships with their customers, in which case, they may not need to present their driver's license every time. Additionally, certain vehicles may require additional permitting, documentation, or qualifications beyond a valid driver's license. International travel may also present unique challenges, as some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to a local license.
In summary, while a voided ID may be sufficient for airport security with additional identity verification, it is likely insufficient for renting a car. Travellers in this situation should contact the rental company and allow extra time to gather any necessary documentation.
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Frequently asked questions
No, a voided ID is not considered an acceptable form of identification at the airport. If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, you will need to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early and go through the ID verification process.
The TSA officer will ask for information, including your name, current address, and other personal details that can be used to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, but you may be subject to additional screening.
Acceptable forms of ID at the airport include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a DHS trusted traveler card, a U.S. Department of Defense ID, and a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued ID.
