Roberta Aguirre
While it is within your rights to refuse to have your ID scanned at a bar or dispensary in the United States, the same does not apply at an airport. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires passengers aged 18 and over to present a valid form of identification at the airport security checkpoint. This is for security purposes and to prevent unauthorized individuals from boarding flights. If you do not have a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly, but you will need to arrive at the airport early and complete an identity verification process.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you refuse to show ID at the airport? | No, you generally cannot refuse to have your ID scanned at the airport. |
| What if you don't have an ID? | If you arrive at an airport without valid identification, you may still be allowed to fly. You will need to get to the airport at least two hours before your flight and enter the security line as normal. Once you reach the front of the line, explain your situation to the TSA agent and work together to complete an identity verification process. |
| What if you refuse to show ID? | Refusing to have your ID scanned at TSA will likely result in denial of entry into the secure area. |
| What if you refuse to show ID to the police? | Refusing to have your ID scanned by the police may have legal implications and is generally not advisable. |
| What are acceptable forms of ID? | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, U.S. passports, DHS trusted traveler cards, U.S. Department of Defense ID, acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), Enhanced ID (EID), U.S. passport card, and state-issued Enhanced IDs. |
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What You'll Learn
- You can fly without a Real ID, but you will need another form of identification
- If you don't have ID, you may be allowed to fly if your identity is verified
- Digital IDs are accepted in some states, but not photos of your ID
- You can refuse to have your ID scanned, but you may be denied entry
- If you lose your ID, contact the airline and arrive early at the airport
You can fly without a Real ID, but you will need another form of identification
As of May 7, 2025, travelers aged 18 and over need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights. This means that state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports.
However, it is still possible to fly without a REAL ID, provided you have another acceptable form of identification. This includes a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a DHS-trusted traveler card (such as Global Entry), a U.S. Department of Defense ID, an Enhanced Driver's License issued by specific states, and more. These alternative forms of ID must be valid and not expired.
If you do not have a REAL ID or an alternative form of identification, you may still be allowed to fly, but you will be subject to additional screening and identity verification processes. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two to three hours early to account for the extra time needed for these processes. During the identity verification process, a TSA officer will ask for information such as your name, current address, and other personal details to confirm your identity.
While some states offer digital driver's licenses that are accepted by TSA PreCheck at certain airports, it is important to note that a temporary driver's license or ID is not considered an acceptable form of identification.
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If you don't have ID, you may be allowed to fly if your identity is verified
Passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport in order to travel. However, if you arrive at the airport without ID, you may still be allowed to fly if your identity can be verified.
It is important to arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance if you do not have ID, as the identity verification process can be time-consuming. When you reach the front of the security line, explain your situation to the TSA agent. You will then be asked to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing personal information such as your name and current address. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, but you will be subject to additional screening, including a pat-down and screening of carry-on luggage.
It is worth noting that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
While you cannot use a picture of your license on your phone, some forms of digital IDs, such as those available in certain states via Apple Wallet or a state app, are accepted by TSA in PreCheck at certain airports.
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Digital IDs are accepted in some states, but not photos of your ID
Passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport to travel. While you can't use a photo of your license on your phone, some forms of digital IDs are accepted at some airports. States like Georgia, Maryland, and Louisiana have digital driver's licenses accessible via Apple Wallet or a state app that TSA accepts in PreCheck. Passengers can 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. This includes Google Wallet and Apple Wallet. However, passengers should always carry a physical and acceptable form of ID as well.
Digital IDs have the potential to modernize checkpoint screening procedures and technologies to better serve the aviation security ecosystem, reduce points of contact for passengers, and pave the way for a more seamless travel experience. The TSA has announced the final rule that enables the continued acceptance of mobile driver's licenses.
If you arrive at an airport without a valid physical identification, you may still be allowed to fly. Make sure you get to the airport at least two hours before your flight and enter the security line as normal. When you reach the front of the line, explain your situation to the TSA agent, and you'll work together to complete an identity verification process. The TSA officer may ask you to provide information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint. However, you will be subject to additional screening, including a pat-down and screening of carry-on property.
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.
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You can refuse to have your ID scanned, but you may be denied entry
While it is generally recommended that individuals present a valid ID at airport security checkpoints, there are certain situations where this may not be feasible, such as a lost or forgotten wallet. In such cases, it is important to remain calm and cooperative. Although you can refuse to have your ID scanned, it is important to understand that this may result in denial of entry into the secure area of the airport.
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), passengers aged 18 and above must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint. The list of acceptable IDs includes REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, U.S. passports, and trusted traveler cards. It is worth noting that TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration.
If you arrive at the airport without a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly, but the process may be more intricate. It is advisable to get to the airport at least two to three hours before your flight and approach the security line as usual. When you reach the front of the line, explain your situation to the TSA agent, who will guide you through an identity verification process. This typically involves providing personal information such as your name, address, and other details to confirm your identity.
While some sources suggest that you can request a visual inspection of your ID instead of scanning, this may not always be an option, especially in airports. Requesting a visual inspection may sometimes arouse suspicion or lead to denied service. Additionally, in jurisdictions with "stop and identify" laws, individuals may be required to provide identification when requested by law enforcement, and refusing to comply can have legal consequences. However, these laws do not necessarily mandate allowing your ID to be scanned.
To avoid any potential issues, it is generally recommended to carry a valid form of identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a passport, when travelling by air. This helps ensure a smooth and efficient security process at the airport.
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If you lose your ID, contact the airline and arrive early at the airport
It is recommended that you always carry acceptable identification with you when travelling to the airport. The list of acceptable IDs can change, so it is important to check this before travelling. However, if you lose your ID, there are a few steps you can take to ensure you still make your flight. Firstly, contact the airline and inform them of the situation. It is also a good idea to arrive at the airport early at least two hours before your flight and enter the security line as normal. When you reach the front of the line, calmly explain your situation to the TSA agent and provide any other forms of identification you may have, such as a credit card, student ID, or even mail with your name and address. You may also be asked to provide additional information, such as your name and current address, to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint and board your flight, although you may be subject to additional screening.
It is important to note that the process of travelling without an ID becomes more difficult when flying abroad, as individual countries decide whether or not to allow travellers without identification. If you lose your ID while abroad, you should contact the nearest U.S. embassy for assistance in replacing your passport. It is also recommended to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before leaving for your trip, as this can make it easier to get help from the embassy while abroad.
In some cases, a digital ID may be accepted. For example, certain airports in the U.S. accept digital driver's licenses from states such as Georgia, Maryland, and Louisiana, accessible via Apple Wallet or a state app. However, it is important to note that a picture of your physical license on your phone will not be accepted. Overall, it is always best to travel with a valid form of identification to avoid any delays or complications during the security screening process.
Additionally, if your ID has been stolen, it is a good idea to obtain a police report. This will provide details of when and where your identification was stolen and can help confirm your identity. Having a photocopy or digital scan of your identification easily accessible can also be helpful in such situations. While it may be inconvenient, remaining calm and cooperative throughout the process will increase the likelihood of airline, security, and immigration employees helping you get on your flight.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport. This is a security measure to confirm the identity of passengers and ensure a safe travel environment.
If you arrive at the airport without your ID, you may still be allowed to fly. However, you must allow extra time to complete an identity verification process, which may include providing information such as your name, address, and other personal details.
Refusing to show your ID at the airport will likely result in denial of entry into the secure area. You may be directed to a separate area for additional screening, and your identity must be confirmed before you can enter the screening checkpoint.
The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change, so it is recommended to check before travelling. Generally, REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) are accepted. Other acceptable forms of ID include a passport, DHS trusted traveler cards, and certain digital IDs.
While you can request a visual inspection, there are no laws protecting your right to refuse ID scanning. In some cases, requesting a visual inspection may arouse suspicion or lead to denied service. At an airport, there may not be any option to select a visual inspection.
