Airports And Child Identification: When And Where Is It Needed?

Whether or not an airport will ask for a child's identification depends on several factors, including the child's age, the type of travel (domestic or international), and the policies of the specific airline. In general, children under the age of 18 are not required to present identification for domestic travel within the United States when accompanied by an adult. However, for international travel or when travelling as an unaccompanied minor, the requirements may differ. It is always recommended to check with the specific airline and destination country beforehand to ensure you have the necessary documentation for a smooth travel experience.

Domestic vs international travel

For domestic travel within the US, children under the age of 18 do not typically need to present identification. Airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult travelling with the child. However, if the child is flying as a lap child, a birth certificate may be required as proof of age. This is because children under the age of 2 can fly for free as a lap child on domestic flights.

For international travel, children under the age of 18 must present the same travel documents as adults. This means that a passport is required, and possibly a visa, depending on the destination. If only one parent is present, a notarized consent form signed by both parents and a copy of the non-travelling parent's passport or valid identification will be needed. If a parent is deceased, a copy of the death certificate will need to be provided.

It is important to check the specific requirements of the airline and destination well in advance of travel to ensure that all the necessary documents are in order.

Travelling with an adult

When travelling with a child, it's important to know the specific requirements of your airline and destination well in advance of your travel date. While children do not need identification for domestic U.S. travel, it is always better to be cautious and bring identification for them if you have it.

Domestic Travel with an Adult

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirm that children under 18 travelling with an adult do not need ID for domestic U.S. travel. However, the adult they are travelling with needs to have an ID. This can be a state-issued driver's license, passport, permanent resident card, or other forms of federally recognized identification.

If the child is travelling with a non-parent adult, it is recommended to complete a child travel consent form to deal with any questions that may arise at security checkpoints. If the child is a newborn infant, some airlines may require additional documentation, such as a medical form or a note from a physician stating that the infant is healthy enough to fly.

International Travel with an Adult

Every individual travelling outside the U.S. needs some form of identification. This could be a passport, passport card, or birth certificate, depending on the destination. If travelling to Canada, children under 16 can use a birth certificate or other proof of U.S. citizenship. However, children should apply for their first passport if they plan to travel internationally, as almost all countries require a passport book. If there is a visa requirement for the destination, children will need to apply for a visa as well.

When a minor is travelling with only one of their parents, it is recommended to have a notarized letter of consent and custodial documents to avoid any issues at border control checkpoints.

Travelling as an unaccompanied minor

When it comes to travelling as an unaccompanied minor, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to note that each airline may have different policies and requirements for unaccompanied minors, so it's crucial to contact the specific airline well in advance of your travel date to determine their policies and procedures. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

• Age Requirements: Different airlines have different age requirements for unaccompanied minors. Some airlines consider children between the ages of 5 and 14 as unaccompanied minors, while others include those up to 17 years old. It's important to check with your chosen airline to confirm their definition of an unaccompanied minor.
• Booking and Reservation: When booking travel for an unaccompanied minor, you will likely need to contact the airline's reservations department directly. They will guide you through the process and ensure that the travel is permitted and correctly documented. Be prepared to provide detailed information about the minor, including their name, age, and other relevant details.
• Required Documents: Unaccompanied minors typically need a valid form of identification, such as a passport or other government-issued photo ID. In some cases, a birth certificate or social security card may be accepted. Additionally, a child travel consent form or a notarized parental consent letter signed by both parents or legal guardians may be required. This form provides proof that the child is authorized to travel alone and includes information about the person dropping off and picking up the child.
• Check-In and Boarding: On the day of departure, arrive at the airport well in advance, as check-in for unaccompanied minors can be a lengthy process. The adult accompanying the minor will need to provide their own photo ID, address, contact phone number, and the details of the adult meeting the minor at the destination. The accompanying adult will also need to stay at the gate until the flight departs.
• In-Flight Experience: During the flight, flight attendants will be available to assist the unaccompanied minor as needed. Some airlines offer special services, such as trackable wristbands, designated lounges, and escorts for unaccompanied minors to ensure their comfort and safety.
• Connection and Layover Procedures: If the unaccompanied minor has a connecting flight, they will be assisted by airline personnel during the transfer. Some airlines may have restrictions on unaccompanied minors making connections, so it's important to check with your airline beforehand.
• Pick-Up and Drop-Off: Only authorized adults are allowed to pick up unaccompanied minors at the destination airport. A valid ID and signature of the person meeting the child are typically required. The adult picking up the child will need to arrive at the airport early, usually about two hours before the scheduled arrival time, to obtain a gate pass.
• Fees: Most airlines charge a fee for the unaccompanied minor service, which can range from $35 to $150 each way, depending on the airline, age of the child, and the number of children travelling together.
• International Travel: International travel for unaccompanied minors may have additional requirements, such as a signed letter of consent from a parent or guardian. Be sure to review the specific requirements for your destination country.
• Preparation and Packing: It is important to prepare your child for the journey by familiarizing them with the process and reminding them to speak only to airline representatives if they need assistance. Pack snacks, entertainment, and a small carry-on bag for the flight. Also, ensure your child has the necessary contact information for the person meeting them at the destination.

Documents for unaccompanied minors

The documentation required for unaccompanied minors will vary depending on the age of the child and the airline they are travelling with. It is always best to check with the airline well in advance of travel to ensure you have the necessary documents. Here is a general overview of what to expect:

Age 0-2: For infants under two years old, a birth certificate is usually required as proof of age when flying as a lap child on domestic flights. Some airlines may also require a physician's note stating the child is healthy enough to fly if they are less than two weeks old.

Age 2-14: Children in this age group are typically considered unaccompanied minors by airlines and will need to use the airline's unaccompanied minor service. This service often includes early boarding, escort assistance, and supervised lounges during connections. The unaccompanied minor form provided by the airline, along with any necessary Customs and Immigration documents, will need to be completed by the parent or guardian. In addition, the following documents may be required:

• Birth certificate or passport as proof of the child's age
• Adult's government-issued photo ID with their current address
• Contact phone number
• Name, address, and phone number of the adult meeting the child at their destination

Age 15-17: For older minors, the unaccompanied minor service is typically optional, but it is still recommended. They may be required to provide some form of identification, such as a photo ID, and the same documents as for younger minors.

It is important to note that some countries have additional restrictions and requirements for unaccompanied minors, such as a Letter of Consent or notarized travel authorization from both parents. Be sure to check the regulations for your specific destination.

Travelling with one parent

If you are a parent travelling with your child without the child's other parent, you will need to bring along certain documentation granting the child permission to travel without the other parent. The specific documents you will need depend on your custody status.

Divorced or Separated Parents with Sole Custody

If you are a parent with sole custody of a minor, you can generally travel as usual, but you may be required to prove your custody status. This can be done with a notarized court order or an equivalent document proving custody.

Divorced or Separated Parents with Shared Custody

If you are the parent travelling with the child, you will need to carry a Child Travel Consent form (also known as a Permission to Travel Letter, Minor Consent to Travel, or Parental Consent to Travel form). This document must be signed by the non-travelling parent, granting permission to the travelling parent to travel alone with the child. The form should specify the kind of flight (domestic or international), the dates of travel, and the final destination.

Widowed Parent

The same procedures and paperwork apply to a widowed parent as they do for a parent with sole custody. However, instead of a notarized court order proving custody, you may be required to present an original or notarized copy of the deceased parent's death certificate.

Travelling with a Child that is Not Yours

If you are travelling with someone else's child, you will need written consent from the child's parents. If you are a temporary caretaker or chaperone, you should also consider asking the parents to sign a Child Medical Consent form in case of a medical emergency. This form grants you authorization to make any medical decisions for the minor on the parents' behalf if they are unavailable.

In addition to the above requirements, it is important to note that children under the age of 18 are not required to present identification for domestic travel in the US, and airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult on behalf of the minor(s). However, for international travel, minors under 18 must present the same travel documents as adults, such as a passport. It is recommended to check with your specific airline and destination in advance of your travel to ensure you have the necessary documents.

Frequently asked questions