Do Lax Domestic Flights Require A Passport?

As of May 7th, 2025, any person travelling within the United States must possess a valid ID at airport security checkpoints for domestic air travel. While a passport is not required for domestic flights, it can be used as a valid form of ID. Other acceptable forms of ID include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued ID card, a military ID, or a foreign government-issued passport. It is recommended to check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) or the relevant airline company for the most up-to-date information regarding identification requirements for domestic flights.

A passport is not required for domestic US flights, but a REAL ID-compliant driver's license is

For US domestic flights departing on or after May 7, 2025, passengers must be REAL ID-compliant to board. This means that adult passengers (18 and older) will need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification at the TSA checkpoint. A REAL ID-compliant license is indicated by a star on the card.

A US passport is not required for US domestic flights. However, a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, is necessary. This ID must be unexpired, and the name on the boarding pass must match the name on the ID.

If you are unsure whether your driver's license is REAL ID-compliant, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles. It is recommended that travelers without acceptable identification arrive at the airport at least three hours in advance of their flight time.

In addition to a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, other acceptable forms of identification for US domestic flights include:

• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• Border crossing card
• An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

REAL ID-compliant IDs have a star in the upper right corner

The REAL ID Act was passed by the United States Congress in 2005 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The Act requires states to adopt and implement uniform standards for the issuance and production of state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards if they are to be accepted as identity documents by the federal government. This Act strengthens the integrity and security of state-issued cards in an effort to reduce identity fraud and terrorism.

Beginning May 7, 2025, only state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards that are fully compliant with the REAL ID Act will be accepted for official federal government purposes, such as entering secure federal buildings or boarding domestic flights. To determine if your ID is compliant, look for a star in the upper right corner of the card. If your ID has a star, it is REAL ID-compliant. If your ID does not have a star, you can still use it after May 7, 2025, but only for state-related purposes such as driving, banking, and voting. It will not be accepted as identification for federal purposes.

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant ID, you will need to provide documentation proving your identity, legal residence, and date of birth. This includes documents such as a valid, unexpired U.S. passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or proof of your Social Security number. Providing these documents can be difficult for some people, so it is recommended to plan ahead and apply for a REAL ID-compliant ID or passport well in advance of any travel plans.

If you are unsure whether your ID is compliant with the REAL ID Act, you can check with your state department of motor vehicles. It is important to note that the REAL ID Act only applies to domestic air travel within the United States. International air travel will require a passport or other acceptable form of identification.

Other valid forms of ID include DHS trusted traveller cards, permanent resident cards, and state-issued IDs

When travelling, it's always important to carry a valid form of ID with you. While a passport is a universally accepted form of identification, there are several other valid forms of ID that can be used when travelling domestically. These include DHS trusted traveller cards, permanent resident cards, and state-issued IDs.

DHS trusted traveller cards are issued by the US Department of Homeland Security. There are several types of DHS trusted traveller cards, including Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST. These cards are valid forms of identification for domestic air travel and can also be used for expedited entry into the US at certain airports when returning from international travel.

Permanent resident cards, also known as green cards, are issued to non-US citizens who have been granted the right to live and work in the country permanently. While green card holders are not required to have a passport for domestic travel, they must have their permanent resident card and a valid photo ID with them when flying within the US.

State-issued IDs, such as driver's licenses or identification cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent), are also accepted as valid forms of identification for domestic air travel. However, it's important to note that starting May 7, 2025, travellers using state-issued IDs for domestic air travel must ensure that their IDs are REAL ID-compliant. This means that the ID must have a star in the upper right-hand corner, indicating that it meets the minimum security requirements set by the REAL ID Act.

In addition to the forms of identification mentioned above, other acceptable forms of ID for domestic air travel in the US include enhanced driver's licenses (which are only available in certain states), tribal-issued photo IDs, US Merchant Mariner Credentials, border crossing cards, US Department of Defense IDs, and transportation worker identification credentials.

Children under 18 do not need to provide identification when travelling domestically

If you're planning to travel with children under the age of 18 within the United States, you might be wondering about the identification requirements for domestic air travel. Here's what you need to know:

Identification Requirements for Domestic Travel:

Children under 18 are generally exempt from providing identification when travelling domestically within the United States. This means they can board their flight without showing any form of ID. However, it's important to remember that each airline has its own policies and procedures for minors, so it's always a good idea to contact your airline well in advance of your travel date to inquire about any specific requirements they may have.

Alternative Forms of Identification:

While not mandatory, it can be beneficial to have some form of identification for children under 18 when travelling. This could include a printed copy of their birth certificate or a government-issued photo ID. Alternatively, you can carry a copy of their passport on your phone. Although not required for domestic travel, having some form of identification for your child can provide peace of mind and may be useful in certain situations.

International Travel Requirements:

It's important to distinguish between the ID requirements for domestic and international travel. When travelling internationally, all passengers, regardless of age, are required to present a valid passport at check-in, security checkpoints, and upon arrival at the destination. Additionally, if only one parent is accompanying the child, a notarized parental consent form signed by both parents and a copy of the non-traveling parent's ID may be needed.

Upcoming Changes to Domestic ID Policies:

While a passport is not currently required for domestic travel within the US, upcoming changes to ID policies may impact what forms of identification are accepted. Starting May 7, 2025, all state-issued driver's licenses and IDs must be REAL ID-compliant to be accepted for domestic air travel. This means that travellers should ensure their IDs meet these enhanced security standards before their trip.

In summary, while children under 18 are exempt from providing identification for domestic travel within the US, it's always a good idea to check with your airline and stay updated on evolving ID requirements, such as the upcoming REAL ID mandate, to ensure a smooth travel experience.

A passport is required for international flights

From May 7, 2025, all U.S. travellers must meet the REAL ID requirements to board domestic flights. This means that a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID will be required to fly within the U.S. A passport can also be used for identification when flying domestically.

It is worth noting that children under the age of 18 are not expected to provide identification when travelling domestically.

Frequently asked questions