Paper Ids: Valid For Air Travel?

While paper IDs are not considered valid identification at airports, it does not mean you cannot fly. 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 collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information 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. However, if your identity cannot be verified, you will not be permitted to enter the security checkpoint.

Temporary paper IDs may not be accepted at airports

It is important to note that the TSA has specific requirements for acceptable identification at airport checkpoints. These requirements vary depending on the situation and the type of ID presented. For example, state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards must be REAL ID-compliant for domestic flights within the United States. This compliance ensures that the ID meets certain security standards.

In the case of temporary paper IDs, individuals may still be able to fly, but they will likely face additional challenges and security measures. Without a valid ID, passengers may be subject to an identity verification process conducted by a TSA officer. This process typically involves collecting personal information such as the individual's name, current address, and other details to confirm their identity. It is recommended that individuals without proper identification arrive at the airport well in advance, preferably two to three hours early, to allow sufficient time for this process.

The TSA has access to various databases and can attempt to verify an individual's identity through other means. If the individual's identity is confirmed, they will be allowed to proceed through the security checkpoint, albeit with additional screening measures. However, if the identity cannot be verified, the person will not be permitted to enter the secured area.

To avoid potential issues and delays, it is generally advisable to carry a valid, permanent form of identification when travelling by air. This can include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, or other acceptable forms of ID specified by the TSA. By ensuring that they have the appropriate identification, travellers can minimize the risk of encountering difficulties at the airport and can have a smoother journey.

Physical IDs are required at the TSA checkpoint

A temporary paper ID is not considered a valid form of identification by the TSA. If you have a temporary ID, the TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. This process can be time-consuming, so it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two to three hours in advance of your flight time.

If your identity cannot be confirmed through the verification process, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. It is important to note that a weapon permit or a temporary driver's license is not considered acceptable forms of identification.

There are various acceptable forms of physical identification that can be presented at the TSA checkpoint. These include a state-issued driver's license or ID card, a U.S. passport, a DHS trusted traveler card, a U.S. Department of Defense ID, a permanent resident card, a foreign government-issued passport, and more. It is recommended to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date list of acceptable forms of identification.

TSA has an identity verification process for those without an ID

If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, whether lost, stolen, or otherwise, you may still be allowed to fly. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has an identity verification process for those without an ID. This process involves collecting 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, including a pat-down and bag search.

To ensure a smooth process, the TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least three hours in advance of their flight time. It is important to note that you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you decline to cooperate with the identity verification process or if your identity cannot be confirmed.

In addition to the standard identity verification process, the TSA is also testing and implementing new technologies, such as digital IDs and facial recognition, to enhance passenger security and improve the travel experience. Digital IDs allow passengers to securely share their identity information through facial recognition at select TSA checkpoints. Passengers can use their smartphones for identity verification with digital identity solutions like mobile driver's licenses or ID passes, which are now accepted at select TSA checkpoints through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app.

However, it is important to note that currently, all passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification. If a digital ID cannot be verified, a passenger must provide an acceptable physical identity document, such as a driver's license or passport, to proceed through the identity verification process. The TSA is committed to protecting passenger privacy and securing all personal data collected during the identity verification process, including biometric data.

TSA recommends arriving 2-3 hours early without an ID

If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. However, the TSA recommends arriving at least 2-3 hours early without an ID, as you will have to go through an identity verification process, which may include collecting information such as your name and current address. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, but you may be subject to additional screening.

• Contact your airline in advance to inquire about their specific ID requirements and recommended arrival time. This is especially important if you are travelling with minors, as ID requirements may vary.
• Allow ample time for parking/shuttle transportation, airline check-in, obtaining a boarding pass, and going through security screening, which includes screening your carry-on luggage.
• Download the MyTSA app to check how busy the airport is expected to be on your day of travel based on historical data. This can help you anticipate potential delays.
• If you do not have a physical ID, be prepared to provide other forms of identification, such as a credit card, student ID, or prescription bottle with your name on it.
• Arrive at the airport as early as possible, especially if it is a busy travel day or time. This will give you sufficient time to complete the necessary paperwork and identity verification process.
• Go to the TSA office in the terminal and explain your situation. They will provide you with the necessary paperwork to initiate the identity verification process.
• Be prepared to answer detailed questions about yourself, as the TSA may ask about obscure or trivial details to confirm your identity.
• Have multiple forms of identification available, such as a social security card, birth certificate, or other documents with your name and address.
• If you have an expired ID, such as an expired passport, consider bringing it just in case it may help with the identity verification process.
• Remain calm and cooperative throughout the process. If your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint and board your flight.

Other forms of ID can be used to verify identity

While a paper ID is not considered a valid form of identification at airports, there are several other forms of ID that can be used to verify your identity. These include:

• Driver's license
• Passport
• 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
• State-issued Enhanced Driver's License
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
• Acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe
• HSPD-12 PIV card
• 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

If you do not have any of these forms of ID, you may still be able to verify your identity using other methods. For example, you can provide a credit card, business card with your photo, mail or prescription medication with your name and address, voter registration, or a library card. Additionally, filing a police report for a missing ID can also help confirm your identity.

It is important to note that the requirements for ID verification may vary depending on the country and airport, so it is always recommended to check the specific requirements before your travel.

Frequently asked questions