Airports And Kids: Id Requirements And Travel Tips

Travelling with children can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to ensuring you have the correct documentation. While children do not need identification when travelling on most domestic flights, it is always best to be cautious and bring some form of ID.

For domestic travel, airlines will accept ID from the adult travelling with the child. However, for international travel, each individual, including children, will need some form of identification, such as a passport, passport card, or birth certificate.

Domestic flights: ID not required, but it's good to have it

Children under 18 years of age do not need to show identification when travelling on domestic flights in the US. This is confirmed by both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The adult travelling with the child will need to show their ID, and most airlines don't allow children to fly alone unless they are using an unaccompanied minor service.

However, it's always good to be cautious and bring some form of ID for your child, as some airlines may request it. This could be a passport, a birth certificate, or a school ID card. If you're travelling with 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.

If your child is travelling as an unaccompanied minor, they don't need to show ID, but it's recommended to bring their birth certificate or passport if they have one. Some airlines, such as American Airlines, require unaccompanied minors to have a form of identification. It's also a good idea to carry a child travel consent form, especially if the child is travelling with a non-parent adult. This can help deal with any questions that may arise at security checkpoints.

While ID is not required for minors on domestic flights, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Having some form of identification for your child can provide peace of mind and ensure a smoother travel experience.

International flights: Passports required for all

International flights always require a passport for all travellers, regardless of age. Even if your child is only a month old, they will need a passport to leave the country. If your destination requires a travel visa, your child will also need to apply for one. Both of these processes can take time, so it's best to get them done as far in advance as possible. If you need to travel at short notice, it is possible to get passports and visas expedited for an extra cost.

In addition to a passport, some airlines may request additional documentation, such as a notarised consent letter from a non-travelling parent. If you are travelling with your child, but without their other parent, you will likely need to bring documentation granting your child permission to travel without the other parent. This could be in the form of a Child Travel Consent form, also known as a Permission to Travel Letter, Minor Consent to Travel, or Parental Consent to Travel form. This form should be signed by the non-travelling parent and specify the type of flight (domestic or international), the dates of travel, and the final destination.

If the other parent is deceased, you may be required to present a copy of their death certificate. If you have sole custody of your child, you may need to prove this with a notarised court order or equivalent document.

It is important to check the specific requirements of the country you are travelling to, as well as those of the airline you are flying with, well in advance of your travel date.

Flying with one parent: Consent forms and ID needed

When flying with children, it's essential to ensure you have the proper documentation to avoid any issues at the airport. Here's what you need to know about consent forms and ID requirements when travelling with minors:

Consent Forms:

If you're flying internationally with your child and only one parent is present, it's generally recommended to have a notarized letter of consent signed by both parents. This letter should include a statement such as, "I acknowledge that my child is travelling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission." This requirement may vary depending on the airline and destination country, so it's always best to check their specific requirements in advance.

In cases where one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document should be carried instead of the notarized consent form. Additionally, if one parent is deceased, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the death certificate.

ID Requirements:

Now, let's discuss the ID requirements for different scenarios:

International Flights:

Regardless of age, everyone flying internationally must present a passport at check-in, the TSA security checkpoint, and upon arrival at the destination. Some countries may also require a travel visa, so be sure to check the requirements for your specific destination. Both documents can take time to obtain, so plan ahead.

If your child is travelling with only one parent internationally, the non-travelling parent's passport or valid identification should be copied and carried along with the notarized consent form.

Domestic Flights:

For domestic flights within the US, children under 18 do not need to provide identification when travelling with an adult. However, the adult must have a valid ID such as a driver's license, passport, or other accepted forms of ID.

If your infant is under two years old and flying as a lap child, some airlines may require a birth certificate or other proof of age to avoid charges for a separate seat. It is recommended to check with your airline for their specific policies.

Minors Travelling Alone:

When minors are travelling alone, they may need a child travel consent form, sometimes referred to as an Unaccompanied Minor Service Form. This form authorises the child to travel alone and includes information about the drop-off and pick-up arrangements. The specific requirements and forms may vary by airline, so be sure to contact them directly.

Additionally, minors travelling alone internationally may need a letter of consent from both parents, preferably notarized and in English. This requirement may depend on the destination country, so always check with the relevant embassy or consulate.

In summary, when flying with one parent, ensure you have the necessary consent forms and IDs for both the child and the travelling parent. For international travel, always carry your child's passport and any required visas. For domestic travel within the US, IDs are not required for children under 18, but the accompanying adult must have valid identification.

Unaccompanied minors: Consent forms and ID needed

If your child is travelling alone, they will need some form of identification. The requirements vary depending on the age of the child and the airline they are flying with. Here is a breakdown of the requirements:

Minors Travelling Alone: Ages 5 to 14

While not mandatory, it is highly recommended that children in this age group have some form of identification on them. If your child has a passport, it is advisable to send them with a copy in case of an emergency.

Minors Travelling Alone: Ages 15 to 17

Children in this age group may be required to provide some form of identification. This could include:

• Organisation ID (e.g. athletics club, theatre group)
• Proof of auto insurance in the passenger's name
• Social Security card
• School ID
• Learner's permit
• Passport
• Library card

Unaccompanied Minors: Consent Forms

In addition to the above requirements, unaccompanied minors will need a child travel consent form. This form provides proof that the child is authorised to travel alone. The form is typically provided by the airline and includes information about the person dropping off and picking up the child. If the child has a deceased parent, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the death certificate.

Other Documents for Unaccompanied Minors

Unaccompanied minors may also need to provide the following documents:

• A medical release form signed by a physician
• Proof of age (e.g. birth certificate, health card, passport)
• Original birth certificate, health card, or passport (photocopies are usually not accepted)

It is important to contact your airline directly to confirm the specific requirements for unaccompanied minors, as they can vary. Additionally, there may be additional requirements for international travel, so be sure to check with the airline and the relevant embassy.

TSA recommendations: What to do if you don't have ID

The TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, if you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly.

TSA officers may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing 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 be subject to additional screening.

TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least three hours in advance of their flight time.

If you choose to not provide acceptable identification, decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.

• Arrive at the airport at least three hours in advance of your flight time.
• Provide as much additional information as possible, such as your name, current address, and other forms of identification like a birth certificate or Social Security card.
• Be prepared to answer personal questions to confirm your identity, such as previous addresses or vehicle ownership.
• Expect additional screening measures, such as a pat-down and a thorough search of your luggage.

Frequently asked questions