Roberta Aguirre
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs and driver's licenses that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers must carry an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. TSA security checkpoints at 27 airports in the US are now accepting digital driver's licenses in place of physical IDs, but only if they were issued in one of eight states. Passengers can also use their Digital IDs at over 250 airports to verify their identity through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet. TSA officers use biometric cameras for identity verification, and passengers can opt out of the photo requirement.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is a picture of an ID accepted at the airport? | Yes, but only at select airports and TSA checkpoints. |
| What are the requirements? | The ID must be a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued photo identity card. It must be stored in a TSA-approved digital ID app or a phone's digital wallet. |
| What if I don't want my photo taken? | You have the right to decline a photo. TSA officers will ask for your consent before using facial recognition technology. |
| What if I don't have an acceptable form of ID? | You will have to complete an identity verification process, providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details. |
| What other forms of ID are accepted? | A birth certificate, passport, credit card, business card with your photo, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, or library card. |
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What You'll Learn
Digital IDs and facial recognition technology
Digital IDs are increasingly being used at airports to enhance security and improve the passenger experience. Over 250 airports now accept digital IDs, which can be accessed through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. Passengers can add their eligible state-issued driver's license or identification card to their phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or their phone's digital wallet.
Digital IDs offer several advantages over physical IDs. Firstly, they provide enhanced security as they are less susceptible to counterfeiting or fraud. Secondly, they offer improved privacy as passengers can control the information shared with TSA, only disclosing what is necessary for identity verification. Additionally, digital IDs can automate the ID and boarding pass verification process, making the airport security screening more efficient and seamless for passengers.
Facial recognition technology is another tool being utilized by the TSA to enhance security and streamline the identity verification process. This technology is used on a voluntary basis, with passengers having the option to decline participation without any negative consequences. TSA officers employ biometric cameras and facial recognition CAT-2 technology to match a traveler's face with the photo on their physical or digital ID, ensuring that the person at the checkpoint matches their documentation. This technology improves accuracy in identity verification and helps prevent identity theft and fraud.
The use of facial recognition technology also raises privacy concerns. To address these concerns, the TSA has implemented several privacy protections. Passengers' photos and personal data are deleted after their identities are verified, and this information is not used for law enforcement or surveillance purposes, nor is it shared with other entities. Additionally, the TSA posts clear signage at checkpoints to inform travelers that participation is voluntary and that they have the right to decline having their photo taken.
Overall, the implementation of digital IDs and facial recognition technology at airports aims to enhance security, improve efficiency, and provide a more seamless travel experience for passengers. These technologies offer increased security against fraudulent activities while also respecting travelers' privacy and providing them with control over their personal information.
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REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
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. REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles. A temporary driver’s license is not an acceptable form of identification.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, you must provide proof of identity, a Social Security number, and proof of residency. To prove your identity, you can bring a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) if you are a non-U.S. citizen. You can provide your Social Security card, Form W-2, a pay stub, or a paycheck from your job. To prove residency, your state department of motor vehicles may ask for a deed, mortgage statement, lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement.
REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won't be accepted as proof of identity for boarding commercial aircraft. State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) are designated as acceptable alternatives to REAL IDs for boarding a commercial aircraft, accessing federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants. EDLs issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes.
If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID, you will not be able to use it for air travel or to get into federal facilities or military installations. Passengers without REAL ID-compliant identification should travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, like a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices. TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration.
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TSA identity verification process
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict guidelines for identity verification at airport checkpoints. All adult passengers aged 18 and above must present valid identification to travel, and the list of acceptable IDs can change without notice. Thus, passengers are strongly encouraged to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling.
From May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers must carry an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a REAL ID issued by their state's Department of Motor Vehicles. It is important to note that a temporary driver's license is not considered acceptable identification.
If a passenger presents a non-compliant ID, they will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. The TSA officer will then initiate an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as the passenger's name, current address, and other personal details to confirm their identity. Passengers are required to cooperate with this process and provide acceptable identification. Failure to do so will result in denial of entry to the security checkpoint.
Passengers without any form of identification should arrive at the airport well in advance, as early as four hours before their flight, as there are alternative methods of identity verification available. These methods may include presenting other documents with the passenger's name on them, such as insurance cards, mail, medication, credit cards, or business cards with their photo on it. Additionally, filing a police report about a missing ID can help confirm identity, and a birth certificate may be used alongside other documents if the ID was lost or stolen. TSA officers may also use biometric cameras and facial recognition technology to assist with identity verification, but passengers have the right to decline a photo, and their personal data will be deleted after verification.
Furthermore, TSA now offers Digital IDs at over 250 airports, where passengers can use platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or state-issued apps to verify their identity. Passengers must still carry a physical compliant ID for verification, and their photo will be taken and compared to their physical or digital ID.
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Acceptable forms of ID for domestic travel
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers will either need to travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
REAL ID-compliant forms of ID include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passports
- U.S. passport cards
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including IDs issued to dependents
- Acceptable photo IDs issued by federally recognized Tribal Nations/Indian Tribes, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID, check with your state department of motor vehicles. A temporary driver’s license is not an acceptable form of identification.
TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date. 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. Contact the airline for questions regarding their specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.
If you have lost your ID, you can bring a photocopy or a digital scan of an acceptable form of ID and show this to the TSA officer. You can also file a police report about your missing ID and bring it to the airport as proof of your identity. Even if you have lost your ID, you should inform your local DMV so they can flag your license number if someone tries to use it.
You can now use your Digital ID at more than 250 airports to verify your identity at TSA checkpoints through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet or a state-issued app. However, all passengers must still carry an acceptable compliant physical ID for verification.
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International travel without an ID
For international travel, a valid ID is required at the airport checkpoint. However, in the absence of a physical ID, there are alternative options to verify your identity and proceed with your travel plans. Here are some suggestions for international travel without a physical ID:
Digital ID
Digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports as a secure and efficient way to verify your identity. You can add your acceptable state-issued driver's license or identification card to your digital wallet on your phone or through a TSA-approved digital ID app. This allows TSA officers to verify your identity through facial recognition technology, providing a faster and more secure travel experience. However, it is important to note that you still need to carry a physical ID as a backup.
Identity Verification Process
If you do not have a physical ID, you may undergo an identity verification process with a TSA officer. Arriving at the airport early, preferably at least two hours ahead, is recommended for this process. The officer will ask for information such as your name, current address, and other personal details to confirm your identity against a database. If your identity is successfully verified, you will be allowed to proceed through security screening and receive a boarding pass with a note indicating the lack of physical ID.
Alternative Forms of Identification
In the absence of a valid ID, alternative forms of identification can support your case. This includes a photocopy or digital scan of an acceptable form of ID, kept securely in a private cloud-based account. Additionally, a credit card, business card with your photo, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, or a library card can help build a stronger case for your identity. A birth certificate, while not accepted as a primary document for adults, may also be used in conjunction with other documents to confirm your identity.
Police Report and Travel Documentation
If you have lost your ID, filing a police report and bringing it to the airport can be helpful proof of your identity. Additionally, if you are travelling internationally with children, carry their birth certificates and passports, as airlines may request proof of their age.
While it is challenging to travel internationally without a valid ID, these alternatives can increase your chances of successful verification and enable you to proceed with your travel plans. However, it is always recommended to carry acceptable identification to avoid delays and ensure a smooth travel experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport. Children do not need to provide identification when travelling within the United States.
TSA-approved forms of ID include REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, passports, and Digital IDs.
A Digital ID is a TSA-approved mobile form of identification that can be used at over 250 airports in the US. It can be added to your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet.
It is not clearly stated whether a picture of an ID is accepted at the airport. However, a photocopy or digital scan of an acceptable form of ID may be shown to a TSA officer.
