Owais Crawford
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 without a REAL ID-compliant ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. While a clipped ID may not be accepted on its own, it is recommended to bring as many forms of identification as possible, including a clipped ID, temporary ID, and any other photo ID, such as a college ID or driver's license. Additionally, passengers can use a passport or other acceptable forms of identification, such as a Social Security card or birth certificate, to fly. It is also important to leave extra time for secondary ID checks and additional screening if necessary.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is a clipped ID accepted at the airport? | It is not recommended to travel with only a clipped ID. TSA requires valid identification at the airport checkpoint for adult passengers (18 and older). |
| Alternative forms of identification | TSA accepts other forms of photo ID, such as a passport, college ID, or a credit card. |
| REAL ID | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or state-issued IDs are accepted at airports. A star in the upper right corner indicates REAL ID compliance. |
| TSA identity verification process | If your identity cannot be verified, you may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. |
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What You'll Learn
TSA requirements for ID
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict requirements for the identification documents that passengers must present at checkpoints. Adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. It is strongly recommended that passengers check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have the correct documentation.
From May 2025, only REAL ID-compliant forms of identification will be accepted at TSA checkpoints. This includes REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, U.S. passports, and passport cards. A temporary driver's license is not considered an acceptable form of identification. Passengers presenting non-compliant identification will be notified of their non-compliance and may be subject to additional screening.
In certain circumstances, expired IDs may be accepted, provided they are not more than two years past the expiration date. Passengers without acceptable identification or those who decline to cooperate with the identity verification process will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.
For TSA PreCheck applications, an original or certified copy of identity/citizenship documentation is required. This includes documents such as unexpired U.S. passports, unexpired foreign passports with valid visas, and unexpired U.S. military ID cards. The names on all documents must match exactly, and any legal name changes must be supported by official documentation.
While there are no explicit mentions of "clipped IDs" in the TSA requirements, some sources suggest that a clipped ID may be used in conjunction with other forms of identification, such as a temporary paper ID or other supporting documents. However, it is important to note that the TSA has the authority to deny entry to the security checkpoint if they cannot verify an individual's identity.
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REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
As per the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, federal agencies, including the TSA, can only accept state-issued REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards as proof of identity for certain official purposes, including domestic air travel. The Act establishes minimum security standards for the issuance of driver's licenses and prohibits federal agencies from accepting noncompliant IDs. 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 for domestic flights. Passengers without a REAL ID-compliant ID will need to present an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL).
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, individuals can apply or renew their license through their state's driver's licensing agency, often the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The process and required documents may vary by state, so it is advisable to check the specific requirements before applying. Generally, individuals will need to provide proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) for non-US citizens. They will also need to provide proof of a Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or Form W-2, and proof of residency, such as a lease agreement or utility bill.
While a REAL ID-compliant driver's license is required for domestic air travel, individuals without one can still use alternative forms of acceptable identification, such as a passport or EDL. Additionally, individuals who do not have a REAL ID-compliant ID may be directed to a separate area for additional screening and identity verification. Providing other forms of identification, such as credit cards, social security cards, or prescription bottles, can help confirm their identity. However, it is always advisable to arrive at the airport early and be prepared with multiple forms of identification to ensure a smooth travel experience.
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Temporary 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 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.
The TSA does not accept temporary paper IDs as REAL IDs. Passengers without REAL IDs in hand can provide alternative identification or go through additional screening. Passengers who do not have a TSA-acceptable form of identification may experience delays, additional screening, and possibly be denied entry. TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration.
Some people have reported being able to use temporary paper IDs at the airport without any issues. However, it is important to note that this may not be the case for everyone, and it is always best to check with the TSA directly. In addition to a temporary paper ID, it is recommended to bring other forms of identification, such as credit cards, social security cards, and prescription bottles. It is also advised to arrive at the airport early to allow for any potential delays or additional screening.
If you are travelling with a clipped ID, it is recommended to also bring your passport or other acceptable forms of identification, such as a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID). It is also important to note that TSA requirements can change without notice, so it is always recommended to check their website for the most up-to-date information before travelling.
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Additional screening
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers who present such IDs at TSA checkpoints and 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 officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting 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, where you may still be subject to additional screening.
The process of positively identifying people with no ID begins with a phone call background check conducted by supervisors or higher-ups. Even at its quickest, without being put on hold, this process takes at least 15 minutes. Therefore, it is advisable to arrive at the airport early if you expect to undergo additional screening.
It is important to note that TSA strongly encourages passengers to check the list of acceptable forms of identification before travelling to ensure they do not arrive at the airport without acceptable ID. While some individuals have reported being able to use expired IDs or temporary paper IDs, it is not guaranteed and may result in additional screening.
In addition to ID requirements, certain medical conditions or devices may also require additional screening. For example, individuals with metal implants or pacemakers should notify security screeners before being screened and may need to allow extra time for a secondary screening process.
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Alternative forms of ID
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 must either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
- A passport or 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 (ETC)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
In addition, TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date. Passengers who are unable to present an acceptable form of ID may be directed to a separate area and may receive additional screening. This includes TSA PreCheck passengers. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity.
It is important to note that TSA strongly encourages travelers to check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling to ensure they have the necessary documentation. The list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice.
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Frequently asked questions
A clipped ID may not be accepted as a valid form of identification at airports. It is recommended to travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a REAL ID-compliant driver's license.
Alternatives to a clipped ID that can be used at the airport include a passport, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
If you do not have any acceptable forms of ID, you may be directed to a separate area for additional screening and identity verification. It is important to arrive at the airport early in such cases to allow for extra time during the security process.
