Babies And Airport Security: Do Infants Need Identification?

Travelling with a baby can be a daunting task, especially for new parents. One of the most important things to keep in mind is whether or not your baby needs identification to board a flight. Here's what you need to know:

In the United States, babies do not need an ID when flying domestically, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). This is true for anyone under the age of 18. However, if you are travelling internationally, your baby will need a passport. Some airlines may also request additional documentation, such as a birth certificate or a notarized consent letter from a non-travelling parent. It is always a good idea to check the specific requirements of the airline and your destination well in advance of your travel to ensure you have all the necessary documents.

Domestic flights: ID requirements for babies

The short answer is "no", babies do not need ID for domestic US travel. However, there are some circumstances where having an ID for your baby will be helpful, and in some cases, it could be essential.

Newborn infants

If you are flying with a newborn, particularly if they are under 2 weeks old, some airlines may require additional documentation, such as a medical form or a note from your paediatrician or physician confirming your baby is healthy enough to fly. It is always best to check with your airline before travelling.

Infants under 2 years old

Airlines allow infants under the age of 2 to travel without their own ticket, as long as they are flying on their parent's lap and not in their own seat. However, at check-in, the airline may require you to prove your child is under 2, as they will be charged for their own seat if they are older. The easiest way to prove your child's age is with their birth certificate, so it is a good idea to carry a copy with you.

Children 2–18 years old

Once your child is 2 or older, they are no longer eligible to fly in your lap and will be required to have their own ticket. However, they still do not need their own ID for domestic travel. The only time that children under the age of 18 will need some sort of ID or documentation is when they are flying without a parent.

Minors travelling alone

If your child is travelling alone, they will need a signed consent form, and sometimes a consent letter. The requirements vary by airline, so check with your carrier directly. It is also recommended that they carry their birth certificate, and some form of photo ID.

Bottom line

While babies and children under 18 do not need ID for domestic US travel, it is better to be safe than sorry. If you have an ID for your baby, bring it, just in case.

International flights: ID requirements for babies

Passport and Visa Requirements

Even the tiniest of travellers need a passport when going on an international trip. So, if you're planning to jet off abroad with your baby, make sure you allow plenty of time to get their first passport. You'll also need to check if your destination requires a visa for babies and children, as they'll need their own.

Additional Documents

If you're travelling internationally with your baby, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of your baby's age. A birth certificate is usually accepted, but some airlines may ask for more. For example, American Airlines requires babies under 7 days old to have a doctor's letter stating they are medically cleared to fly. If you're travelling without your baby's other parent, you may also need to provide a notarised letter of consent and a copy of the non-travelling parent's passport or ID.

ID for Older Children

Although ID isn't usually required for babies, slightly older children may need to provide some form of identification when travelling internationally. This is especially important if they are travelling alone or with only one parent. A passport is usually accepted, but other forms of ID may also be required, such as a social security card or organisation ID.

Lap infants: ID requirements

When flying with a lap infant, you may be asked to prove that they are under 2 years old at check-in. This is because children under 2 can fly for free as a lap child on domestic flights, but once they turn 2, they are required to pay the full airfare.

Domestic flights

Babies do not need ID when flying within the US, according to the TSA. However, if you are flying with an infant domestically as a lap child, you may need to bring a copy of their birth certificate to prove their age. While some airlines are lenient, others, like Southwest Airlines, always require a copy of the birth certificate or government-issued photo ID at check-in.

International flights

Babies need a passport to fly internationally. If you are flying internationally with an infant as a lap child, you will need to bring their passport.

Travelling with a newborn: safety considerations

Flying with a newborn for the first time can be a daunting experience for any parent. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind when planning your trip.

Health and age considerations:

It is important to ensure that your newborn is healthy enough to fly. While full-term newborns who are at least 7 days old are generally safe to fly, it is recommended to consult with your doctor, especially if your baby was premature or preterm, as they may require more time for their lungs or heart to mature. Most parents wait a few weeks after birth before flying with their newborn.

Documentation:

When it comes to documentation, the requirements differ for domestic and international travel. For domestic flights within the US, babies do not need an ID, and you will not be required to show any identification or birth certificate for your infant. However, some airlines may ask for proof of age to confirm that your child is under 2 years old, as they can fly as a lap child for free. Acceptable forms of proof of age include a birth certificate, passport, or government-issued photo ID.

For international travel, your infant will need a valid passport, and you may also need a visa, depending on your destination. Both parents need to be present when applying for your infant's passport, along with providing necessary documents such as birth certificates and passports. It is also recommended to have a copy of your child's birth certificate or a photo of their passport on your phone as a backup.

Ticketing and seating arrangements:

Each airline has its own ticketing procedures and requirements for infants. Some airlines let the guardians of children under 2 decide whether to purchase a ticket for the child or have them sit on an adult's lap at no additional cost on domestic flights. However, for international flights, purchasing a ticket for your infant is usually mandatory. Contact your airline beforehand to confirm their specific policies and requirements.

Additionally, consider purchasing your baby their own seat if possible. This will provide more space and comfort, and it is also safer, especially during turbulence or in the event of a crash.

Airport security and carry-on items:

All passengers, including infants, will go through the airport security screening process. You must put infant items such as strollers, car seats, diaper bags, and toys through the X-ray scanner. Remove your infant from their carrier before putting it through the scanner, and you can then carry them through the metal detector.

Breast milk, baby formula, and baby food are exempt from the typical liquid restrictions at security checkpoints, and you do not need to place them in a zip-top bag. However, declare them for inspection, and only bring what is needed for the flight and potential delays.

In-flight considerations:

To ease ear discomfort during takeoff and landing due to pressure changes, give your baby a bottle or pacifier, or breastfeed if possible. Ensure your baby is sitting upright while drinking. If your baby is in a bassinet or carrier, you will need to hold them or strap them into their seat during these times.

It is also recommended to bring a well-stocked diaper bag with enough diapers, wipes, formula/breast milk, and food to last through the flight and potential delays. Pack a change of clothes for your baby and yourself, as well as some new toys or books to keep them entertained.

By following these safety considerations, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience with your newborn.

Airline-specific ID requirements for babies

While the TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling with a companion within the United States, each airline determines its own ID requirements for minors. It is therefore important to check with your airline well in advance of your travel date to determine if they have unique policies or procedures.

American Airlines

American Airlines requires that a special assistance coordinator send a form directly to the physician for them to fill out if the child is less than 7 days old. For older infants, the airline requires a 1-to-1 ratio of a paying adult to a non-paying child. If you don't buy a ticket for your infant, you will need to obtain a special boarding pass or child travel consent form.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines lets the guardians of children under 2 years old decide whether to purchase a ticket for the child and use a baby seat or hold the child on the lap for no additional cost on domestic flights. However, the airline always requires proof of age for lap infants. If you don't buy a ticket for your infant, you will need to present a Boarding Verification Document at boarding.

United Airlines

United Airlines lets the guardians of children under 2 years old decide whether to purchase a ticket for the child and use a baby seat or hold the child on the lap for no additional cost on domestic flights. The airline requires a 1-to-1 ratio of a paying adult to a non-paying child. If you don't buy a ticket for your infant, you may be required to obtain a special boarding pass or child travel consent form.

Frequently asked questions