Roberta Aguirre
As of May 7, 2025, U.S. citizens who are 18 years and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued ID card to fly domestically. Those without a REAL ID will need to present another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or they may be denied entry at TSA checkpoints. TSA officers may ask travelers without a REAL ID to complete an identity verification process, which may include providing information such as their name and current address. International travelers will need a regular passport book, as passport cards are not accepted for international flights.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is a passport a valid ID at the airport? | Yes, passports are accepted as valid IDs at airport security checkpoints. |
| Are passport cards considered valid IDs? | No, passport cards are not considered REAL IDs. However, they are accepted for domestic travel. |
| Are there any other requirements for IDs at the airport? | Yes, passengers 18 and older must present a valid ID. Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling within the US. |
| What other forms of ID are accepted at the airport? | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued IDs, and Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced IDs (EID) are also accepted. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA requirements for ID at the airport
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has outlined specific identification requirements for air travel, which all passengers aged 18 and above must adhere to. From May 7, 2025, the TSA will only accept REAL ID-compliant forms of identification at airports. This means that state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards that do not meet REAL ID standards will no longer be accepted. The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued identification documents.
Passengers are encouraged to travel with acceptable forms of ID, such as a valid passport or a state-issued REAL ID. A passport card is not considered a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, and it cannot be used for international flights. However, a full unexpired foreign passport is accepted as a REAL ID. Passengers without REAL ID-compliant identification may be directed to a separate area and may undergo additional screening, including an identity verification process. This process involves providing information such as one's name and current address.
The TSA provides a list of acceptable forms of identification, which includes:
- 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 License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs may change without notice, and passengers are strongly advised to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date information before travelling. Additionally, the TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date. Children under 18 travelling within the United States are generally not required to provide identification, unless they are unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck, in which case they must show acceptable ID.
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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 will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, at TSA security checkpoints. Passengers who present a state-issued identification that is not REAL ID-compliant at TSA checkpoints and who do not have another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers.
The TSA strongly encourages travelers to check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling, as the list is subject to change without notice. REAL ID-compliant forms of identification include driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you can check with your state department of motor vehicles. A temporary driver's license is not an acceptable form of identification. State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID) cards, U.S. passports, U.S. passport cards, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including IDs issued to dependents, are also acceptable forms of identification.
It is important to note that 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. TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and IDs. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass and not on the ID, or vice versa, this is considered an acceptable variation.
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Passport cards vs. passport books
A passport is a valid form of identification at the airport. However, it is important to note that there are different types of passports, and the type you need depends on your mode of transportation and destination.
Now, let's delve into the differences between passport cards and passport books:
Passport Cards:
Passport cards are a more compact and affordable option compared to passport books. They are the size of a credit card or driver's license, fitting conveniently in your wallet. Passport cards are suitable for US citizens who frequently travel to neighbouring countries by land or sea, including Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and select Caribbean countries. This option is ideal if you plan to drive or sail to these destinations. The passport card is not valid for international air travel, so it cannot be used if you are flying out of the United States. Additionally, it cannot be used as proof of signature, which may be a requirement for certain services.
Passport Books:
Passport books, on the other hand, are the traditional pocket-sized booklets that most people associate with passports. They are navy blue in colour and are issued by the US government for international travel by air, land, and sea. This means that you can use a passport book to travel anywhere in the world, regardless of your mode of transportation. The passport book also allows you to access US consular services and assistance while abroad, providing an added layer of security. The cost of a passport book is higher than that of a passport card, reflecting its broader range of uses.
In summary, the main differences between passport cards and passport books lie in their physical characteristics, validity for different modes of travel, and cost. If you plan to travel internationally by air, a passport book is necessary. However, if your travel plans include driving or sailing to neighbouring countries, a passport card may be a more convenient and cost-effective option. Some travellers choose to obtain both to cater to all possible travel scenarios.
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State-issued IDs
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant state-issued ID, individuals can visit their state DMV offices and provide the necessary information, including their full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, proof of address, and lawful status. It is worth noting that some states may have additional requirements, so it is recommended to check the specific requirements of your state's driver's licensing agency before visiting in person.
It is important to note that a passport is not required for domestic travel if you have a REAL ID-compliant state-issued ID. However, for international travel, a passport is necessary, and it serves as a valid form of identification at airport security checkpoints.
In summary, while state-issued IDs are accepted at airport security checkpoints, they must be REAL ID-compliant. For international travel, a passport is required, and it serves as a valid form of ID. For any specific questions or requirements regarding identification, it is always recommended to contact the relevant authorities or your state's driver's licensing agency.
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International travel ID requirements
When travelling internationally, it is important to ensure that you have the correct documentation. Requirements may vary depending on your destination and country of origin, so it is always best to check with the relevant authorities before travelling. Here are some general guidelines and requirements for international travel identification:
Firstly, a valid passport is often required for international travel. Most countries require a passport as the primary form of identification for entry and exit. It is important to ensure that your passport is up to date and will remain valid for the duration of your trip, as well as for any additional period required by the country you are visiting. Some countries may also require that your passport has a minimum number of blank pages for entry stamps.
In addition to a passport, visas may also be required for entry into certain countries. The type of visa and length of stay permitted can vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. It is important to research the specific visa requirements for your destination and apply for any necessary visas well in advance of your trip.
For air travel, it is typically mandatory for adult passengers aged 18 and over to present valid identification at the airport checkpoint. This can include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued photo identity card, or a passport. From 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. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your identification complies with the REAL ID requirements or to carry an alternative form of acceptable ID, such as a passport.
It is worth noting that some countries may have specific entry and exit requirements beyond a passport and visa. For example, certain countries may require proof of health or vaccination status, while others may have restrictions on the amount of cash that can be carried without declaration. It is important to research and understand the specific requirements of your destination to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Finally, it is important to consider the requirements for returning to your home country. For example, if you are a citizen of the United States, you may need to obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for short stays in certain countries, such as the United Kingdom. Additionally, customs and baggage regulations may apply when re-entering your home country, so it is important to be aware of any restrictions or declarations that need to be made.
In summary, international travel typically requires a valid passport, and sometimes additional documentation such as visas. It is essential to research the specific requirements of your destination and transit points, as well as the requirements for re-entering your home country. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure a more seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a passport is an acceptable form of ID at the airport.
A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued ID is accepted. If you have a state-issued ID that is not REAL ID-compliant, you will need another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or you will be subject to additional screening.
A REAL ID is a federally standardized driver's license or identification card with higher security standards.
If you don't have a REAL ID or passport, you can use other acceptable forms of ID, such as an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID). However, it is recommended that you check the TSA requirements before traveling to ensure you have acceptable ID.
