Roberta Aguirre
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not accept all forms of temporary IDs for air travel in the United States. While some travellers have been able to board with paper IDs after undergoing additional screening methods or using digital identification, it is not a given. TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the acceptable forms of ID before arriving at the airport. Passengers without a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other acceptable forms of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paper ID accepted by TSA | No, but some travelers have been able to board with paper ID after undergoing additional screening methods or using digital identification |
| Paper ID accepted by airlines | Depends on the airline and the type of paper ID. Contact the airline prior to the day of your flight to check |
| TSA ID requirements | TSA accepts REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID) are also accepted. |
| TSA ID requirements 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. |
| TSA requirements for children | Children under 18 traveling within the US do not need to provide identification. Unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA requirements for paper ID
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific requirements for acceptable forms of identification (ID) at airport checkpoints. While paper IDs are not explicitly mentioned in the TSA guidelines, there are certain considerations and alternative options for travellers who may only have a paper ID.
Firstly, it is important to note that the TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable IDs before arriving at the airport. This list can change without notice, so staying informed is essential. 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. Thus, travellers should ensure they have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other acceptable forms of ID, such as a passport.
For travellers who only have a paper ID, it is recommended to contact the airline prior to the day of the flight. The airline can provide guidance and inform travellers of any additional steps or requirements needed to ensure a smooth journey. In some cases, travellers with paper IDs may be allowed to board after undergoing additional screening methods or using digital identification. However, this is not guaranteed, and arriving at the airport early is advised to allocate extra time for potential delays.
Additionally, the TSA accepts some types of temporary IDs, but not all. A temporary driver's license or ID card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may be accepted, but other temporary paper IDs are less likely to be approved. In such cases, travellers may need to provide additional documentation, such as a passport, birth certificate, or social security card, to confirm their identity. It is worth noting that temporary IDs may have limitations, such as shorter expiration dates or reduced functionality, compared to regular IDs.
Furthermore, TSA requirements differ for travellers under the age of 18. Children under 18 travelling within the United States are not required to provide identification. However, unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. The specific ID requirements for travellers under 18 can vary by airline, so contacting the airline directly is advisable.
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Additional screening for paper ID
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 must 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.
A temporary driver's license or ID card may be accepted by the TSA, but other types of temporary IDs, such as a temporary paper ID, may not be accepted. It is recommended to check with the TSA in advance to confirm whether a temporary ID will be accepted. Even if a temporary ID is accepted, additional documentation may be required to confirm identity and board a flight. This could include a passport, birth certificate, social security card, or other forms of identification. It is also recommended to contact the airline in advance to find out what documentation is needed.
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. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers. The TSA officer may ask the passenger to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as their name and current address. If the passenger's identity is confirmed, they will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, where they may still be subject to additional screening.
Major airports typically have a line at at least one TSA checkpoint labeled "ID Issues". It is recommended to allow extra time, usually 30-60 minutes, for this process, as there may be several people in line ahead. Passengers may be asked various security questions and have their bags fully searched. Having a digital photo of a prior, government-issued ID can be helpful, but it will not replace the need for a physical ID.
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State-issued ID requirements
Firstly, it is essential to distinguish between a temporary ID and a permanent state-issued ID. Temporary IDs are typically issued while an individual is awaiting their permanent ID card or driver's license. These temporary IDs often have limitations, such as shorter validity periods and reduced functionality compared to their permanent counterparts.
When it comes to state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards, the REAL ID Act comes into play. The REAL ID Act, implemented by the Department of Homeland Security, sets standards for issuing identification. From May 7, 2025, passengers must present a state-issued ID that complies with REAL ID standards or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport. IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. A REAL ID-compliant ID will have a gold star in the top right corner.
It is important to note that a temporary driver's license is not considered an acceptable form of identification by the TSA. However, other types of temporary IDs, such as a state-issued temporary ID card, may be accepted in certain circumstances. The specific acceptance of these IDs can vary, so it is crucial to check with the TSA and your airline in advance to confirm. Even if a temporary ID is accepted, additional documentation may be required to confirm your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or social security card.
In some cases, individuals may be directed to a separate area for additional screening if their identity cannot be verified. This process may involve answering security questions and undergoing further bag checks. It is recommended to arrive at the airport early to allocate extra time for these security checks.
To summarise, state-issued ID requirements can vary, and it is essential to check with the specific state and the TSA for the most up-to-date information. While REAL ID-compliant IDs are widely accepted, temporary IDs may be subject to additional scrutiny and requirements. Proper planning and allowing extra time at the airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience.
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TSA identity verification process
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires adult passengers aged 18 and over to show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to travel. The list of acceptable IDs may change without notice, so it is important to check the list before travelling.
The TSA currently accepts the following forms of ID:
- 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
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
The TSA does not accept temporary driver's licenses or paper IDs as valid forms of identification. However, other types of temporary IDs, such as a temporary driver's license or ID card, may be accepted. It is recommended to check with the TSA in advance to confirm whether a specific type of temporary ID will be accepted. Even with an accepted temporary ID, additional documentation may be required to confirm identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or social security card.
If a passenger does not have an acceptable form of ID, the TSA officer may conduct an identity verification process. This includes collecting information such as the passenger's name and current address to confirm their identity. Passengers who do not provide acceptable identification, decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or cannot have their identity confirmed will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.
To ensure a smooth process, it is recommended to arrive at the airport early, especially when dealing with temporary identification. Major airports have a dedicated line at a TSA checkpoint for ID issues, but this may require additional time for processing. It is also helpful to carry other forms of identification or documents that contain your name, such as insurance cards, mail, or medication.
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Paper ID for domestic travel
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts some types of temporary IDs for air travel, but not all. A temporary driver's license or ID card may be accepted, but other types of temporary IDs, such as a temporary paper ID, may not be accepted. It is recommended that you check with the TSA in advance to confirm whether your temporary ID will be accepted. Even if your temporary ID is accepted by the TSA, you may need to provide additional documentation to confirm your identity and be allowed to board your flight. This could include a passport, a birth certificate, a social security card, or other forms of identification. It is also recommended that you check with your airline in advance to find out what documentation you will need to bring.
In the United States, it is possible to fly domestically with a temporary ID, but it depends on the specific circumstances and the type of temporary ID you have. For example, if you are flying within the United States and do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other state-issued photo ID, you may be able to present another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, at the TSA checkpoint. However, if you do not have an acceptable form of identification, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.
Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other identification will be required for domestic air travel in the United States. This means that 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 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. It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice, so it is recommended to check the list again before traveling to ensure you have acceptable ID.
Additionally, TSA currently accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration for the above-listed forms of identification. 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. It is recommended to contact the airline for questions regarding their specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.
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Frequently asked questions
No, you cannot get through TSA and fly if you only have paper identification with you. However, you may still be able to board if TSA can check your identity through other means.
Some other forms of identification that you can use to verify your identity include a passport, a birth certificate, a social security card, a credit card, or a DHS trusted traveller card like Global Entry.
If you only have a paper ID, contact your airline before the day of your flight. They can give you options to complete before you can make your flight on time. You should also allow extra time for security checks and additional screening methods.
