Jazmin Li
As of May 7, 2025, the TSA will not accept temporary paper IDs as a valid form of identification at airports. Passengers must provide a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, such as a state-issued driver's license, a passport, or a Veteran Health Identification Card. If a passenger does not have an acceptable form of ID, they may be asked to complete an identity verification process, which may include providing personal information such as their name and address. While some individuals have reported being able to board flights with temporary IDs and additional forms of identification, such as credit cards, it is not guaranteed and may result in additional screening or denial of entry. It is always best to check the TSA's list of acceptable IDs before traveling to ensure a smooth airport experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| TSA's acceptance of temporary ID | Not accepted as a REAL ID-compliant form of identification. |
| REAL ID-compliant forms of ID | State-issued driver's licenses, REAL ID, state-issued photo identity cards, passports, DHS trusted traveler cards, Department of Defense ID, photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe |
| Alternative forms of ID | Debit cards, insurance cards, credit cards, Costco membership cards, School ID, Social Security card |
| TSA's response to lack of valid ID | Additional screening, identity verification process, denied entry into the security checkpoint |
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What You'll Learn
TSA requirements for ID at the airport
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific requirements for identification (ID) that passengers must meet when travelling through airports. As of May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant identification cards will be accepted at airports. This means that state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards that do not meet REAL ID standards will not be accepted as valid forms of identification. Passengers must present an alternative acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or a state-issued REAL ID. It is important to note that temporary driver's licenses or paper IDs are not considered acceptable forms of identification at TSA checkpoints.
If passengers arrive at the airport without valid identification, they may still be allowed to fly, but they will be directed to a separate area for additional screening and identity verification. This process may include providing information such as their name, current address, and other personal details to confirm their identity. It is recommended that passengers without proper identification arrive at the airport early to allow sufficient time for this process.
The TSA provides a list of acceptable forms of identification, which may include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including dependent IDs
- Photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs may change without notice, and passengers are strongly advised to check the TSA website or with their state DMV before travelling to ensure they have the proper identification. Additionally, TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration for the above-listed forms of identification.
For TSA PreCheck applications, specific documents are required, including an unexpired U.S. passport (book or card), an unexpired U.S. Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), or a Permanent Resident Card ("Green Card"). An original or certified name change document, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree, must also be provided if the passenger has legally changed their name.
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Temporary ID as a last resort
As of May 7, 2025, a temporary ID will not be accepted as a valid form of identification at airports. This means that passengers will need to provide an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, a photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, or a Veteran Health Identification Card. It is important to note that passengers who arrive at the airport without acceptable identification may still be allowed to fly but will be subject to additional screening and identity verification processes.
While a temporary ID alone is not sufficient, having some form of temporary identification with your name and photo can be helpful. In addition to your temporary ID, bring other forms of identification that have your name and/or photo on them, such as a debit card, credit card, school ID, or social security card. The more forms of identification you can provide, the better.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport early if you only have a temporary ID. This will allow extra time for the identity verification process, which may take longer. You should also consider letting an airport employee know about your situation before getting in the security line. They may be able to radio someone and help expedite the process.
In some cases, individuals have reported being allowed to fly with only a temporary ID and no other forms of identification. However, this is not guaranteed, and providing multiple forms of identification will increase your chances of being allowed to board your flight. It is important to remain polite and cooperative with TSA officers during the identity verification process.
In summary, while a temporary ID alone may not be sufficient at the airport, it is important to bring it along with any other forms of identification you have. Arriving early and being cooperative with airport staff will also increase your chances of a smooth travel experience.
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REAL ID-compliant forms of ID
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 without a REAL ID-compliant ID will 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 driver's licenses
- State 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
- Photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to two years after expiration. Passengers without valid identification may still be allowed to fly but will be required to complete an identity verification process. TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States.
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TSA identity verification processes
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has strict guidelines for identity verification at airport checkpoints. While the list of acceptable IDs can change without notice, the TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list before their journey to ensure they have acceptable identification. 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. Passengers must present an alternative acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or a state-issued REAL ID.
If a traveller does not possess a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, the TSA officer may allow them to complete an identity verification process. This typically involves providing personal information such as one's name, current address, and other details to confirm their identity. Travellers without acceptable identification may be directed to a separate area for additional screening. This process can be time-consuming, and travellers are advised to arrive at the airport early to ensure they do not miss their flight.
The TSA accepts various forms of federally issued and recognised identification, including:
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. Passport
- U.S. Passport card
- DHS trusted traveller cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Federally recognised Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued photo ID, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
It is important to note that a temporary driver's license or paper ID is not considered acceptable identification by the TSA. However, in the absence of valid identification, travellers can provide multiple forms of identification with their name and photo, such as student IDs, work IDs, or other documents like prescription bottles, debit cards, or insurance cards.
While the TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States, unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID for expedited screening.
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Alternative forms of ID
A temporary driver's license or ID is not considered an acceptable form of identification at most airports. However, if you arrive at the airport without a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. It is recommended to carry multiple forms of identification that include your photograph and name.
- Passport: A valid passport is a widely accepted form of identification for air travel. It serves as a comprehensive proof of identity and citizenship.
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID): These are more secure forms of driver's licenses or state IDs that meet the standards of the REAL ID Act. They are issued by select states and can be used for domestic air travel.
- U.S. Passport Card: The U.S. passport card is a wallet-sized document that can be used as a more convenient alternative to the traditional passport book for domestic air travel and land and sea crossings at specific border crossings.
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards: These include cards issued under programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST. They are designed to expedite the screening process for trusted travellers and can be used as a form of identification.
- U.S. Department of Defense ID: This includes IDs issued to U.S. military personnel and their dependents. They serve as valid proof of identity for airport security checks.
- Federally Recognized Tribal Photo ID: An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation or Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs), is also accepted.
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs may vary and change without notice. It is always recommended to check with the airport or the TSA for the most up-to-date information before your travel. Additionally, some airports and countries may have their own specific requirements, so it is essential to be prepared and carry multiple forms of identification whenever possible.
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Frequently asked questions
No, temporary IDs are not considered an acceptable form of identification at the airport.
Airports accept a variety of identification forms, including passports, state-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL), Veteran Health Identification Cards, and photo IDs issued by federally recognized Tribal Nations/Indian Tribes.
If you arrive at the airport without a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name, address, and other personal information.
If you don't have a REAL ID by the deadline, you can still board domestic flights with another approved form of identification, such as a passport or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL).
