Lois Larson
Forgetting your ID before a flight can be stressful, but there are ways to check in at the airport without one. While it's easier to travel domestically without an ID than internationally, there are options for both. If you're travelling within the US, you can go through additional identity and security screening at the TSA checkpoint. If you're travelling internationally, you'll need to contact the airline to ask about their specific ID requirements. In both cases, it's recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours early to complete the identity verification process. This may include providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Possibility of flying without ID | Yes, but only for US domestic flights |
| Requirements | At least two alternate forms of identification, such as a social security card, birth certificate, marriage license, or credit card |
| Additional requirements | One of the documents must bear identification information containing one of the following: date of birth, gender, address, or photo |
| TSA's role | TSA officers verify the identity of the passengers without ID by asking questions and using publicly available databases |
| Time required | A lot of time since it involves additional security measures |
| Boarding pass | Should have a note that the passenger does not have an ID |
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What You'll Learn
TSA identity verification
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has procedures in place for passengers who show up at the airport without an ID. Passengers aged 18 and older must present a valid government-issued photo identification when checking in for domestic or international flights. However, if a passenger does not have a valid photo ID, they may still be able to fly by undergoing an identity verification process and additional security screening.
The identity verification process involves providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details to a TSA officer. Passengers may also be asked to complete a Certification of Identity form and answer personal questions to confirm their identity. This process may take some time, so it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their departure time.
If the TSA can confirm the passenger's identity, they will be allowed to proceed through security screening and receive a boarding pass with an official note indicating they do not have an ID. This boarding pass will allow them to board the plane. However, it is important to note that passengers who decline to cooperate with the identity verification process or whose identities cannot be confirmed will not be permitted to enter the screening checkpoint.
To facilitate the identity verification process, passengers should bring as many secondary forms of identification as possible. Acceptable forms of secondary identification include a social security card, birth certificate, marriage license, credit card, or a Global Entry membership card. These documents must bear the passenger's name, and at least one of them must include identifying information such as date of birth, gender, address, or a photo. Additionally, passengers who have lost their identification while travelling are advised to file a report with local law enforcement and bring a copy of the report to the airport.
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Alternate forms of ID
As per the TSA, adult passengers aged 18 and above must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. If you are travelling without a valid photo ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, you should bring at least two alternate forms of identification. These documents must bear the name of the passenger, and at least one of them must contain identification information such as date of birth, gender, address, or photo. Here are some examples of alternate forms of ID:
- Social security card
- Birth certificate
- Marriage license
- Credit card
- Green card
- Passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued photo ID
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
In some cases, the TSA may be able to confirm your identity using publicly available databases, but this process may be time-consuming. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours ahead of your departure time to complete the identity verification process.
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International vs. domestic travel
The requirements for identification differ for international and domestic travel. Here is a detailed overview of what you need to know:
Domestic Travel
When travelling within the United States, children under 18 are not required to provide identification. However, unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID for expedited screening. Accompanied minors may be asked to provide proof of age, so it is recommended to carry a copy of their birth certificate.
For adults, a valid ID is required for domestic travel. This includes REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, U.S. passports, passport cards, and other official documents. It is important to note that temporary driver's licenses are not accepted.
If you arrive at the airport without a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly. It is recommended to arrive at least two hours early and complete an identity verification process with a TSA officer, providing information such as your name, address, and other personal details.
Additionally, TSA accepts other forms of identification for domestic travel, such as a credit card, business card with a photo, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, or a library card.
International Travel
International travel, including returning to the U.S. from abroad, typically requires a passport. It is recommended not to travel internationally without one. If your passport is lost or stolen while abroad, it is important to visit the nearest U.S. embassy to obtain a replacement.
Different countries may have specific requirements for identification on commercial flights, so it is essential to check the latest rules and guidelines for your destination.
In summary, while it is possible to complete domestic travel within the U.S. without a valid ID by undergoing an identity verification process, international travel is more stringent and typically requires a passport.
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Airline-specific policies
While the TSA has specific guidelines regarding identification, each airline may have its own policies and requirements for checking in and boarding a flight without a valid ID. Here are some airline-specific policies and recommendations to be aware of:
American Airlines
American Airlines adheres closely to the TSA's Real ID rules and actively reminds customers about these requirements through various communication channels. They offer flexibility in changing or cancelling flights without fees, but customers may have to pay a fare difference. Basic economy tickets, however, cannot be changed and are subject to a cancellation fee.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines directs inquiries about Real ID requirements to Airlines for America or the TSA, as the program is government-mandated. They have Real ID reminders on their website, app, and throughout the booking process to keep passengers informed.
Sun Country Airlines
Sun Country Airlines does not offer flight waivers if passengers arrive without a Real ID. Their standard change and cancellation policies apply, and fees may apply depending on the timing of the changes.
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines has taken steps to inform passengers of the new Real ID requirements. They allow passengers without acceptable ID to rebook or cancel according to their regular published policies.
Delta Air Lines
If you're employing the flat-tire policy (for situations where you don't have the required ID), Delta Air Lines requires you to arrive within one hour of your scheduled departure time.
United Airlines
United Airlines has a stricter time frame for the flat-tire policy, requiring passengers to arrive within 30 minutes of their scheduled departure time.
It's important to remember that each airline may have its own unique policies and recommendations, and it's always best to check with your specific airline for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
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Digital IDs
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a digital identification system that allows travellers to show a digital ID at TSA security checkpoints. This system is currently available at over 250 airports and is compatible with platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, and state-issued apps.
To use a Digital ID, travellers must first 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. It is important to follow the set-up instructions from the device wallet or app before travelling to ensure it is ready for presentation at TSA checkpoints.
While the use of digital IDs is optional, it is important to note that travellers must still carry a physical ID as a backup in case their digital ID cannot be verified. This backup ID ensures that travellers are prepared for any technical issues or unforeseen circumstances that may arise.
The TSA also offers a PreCheck Touchless ID program, which utilizes facial comparison technology for faster and more efficient identity verification. This program is currently available at select airports, including Atlanta, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York City (LGA and JFK), Salt Lake City, and Washington, D.C. Eligible customers can opt into this program and enjoy a streamlined airport experience without presenting a traditional photo ID.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can, but only if the TSA can verify your identity. You will need to complete an identity verification process with a TSA officer, which will include questions about your name, current address, and other personal details. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight to allow enough time for this process.
If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint or board your flight.
If you don't have a valid photo ID, such as a passport or driver's license, you should bring at least two alternate forms of identification, such as a social security card, birth certificate, marriage license, or credit card. These documents must bear the name of the passenger, and at least one must include the passenger's date of birth, gender, address, or photo.
