Temporary Ids: Airport Security Friend Or Foe?

If you're wondering whether your temporary ID will get you through airport security, the answer is: it depends. While some countries or states may accept temporary IDs, others, like the US, do not. In the US, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not consider a temporary driver's license an acceptable form of identification. However, if you arrive at the airport without valid identification, you may still be allowed to fly. A TSA officer will ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing personal information such as your name, address, and other details to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but will be subject to additional screening. It's recommended that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least two to three hours before their flight time.

Temporary IDs and TSA checkpoints

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not accept temporary IDs as a valid form of identification. However, if you arrive at the airport without valid identification, you may still be allowed to fly. This applies to both domestic and international flights.

Domestic Flights

If you are travelling within the US, you can fly without an ID. In this case, the TSA officer will ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal details. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint, but you may be subject to additional screening. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least two to three hours in advance if you do not have proper identification.

International Flights

For international flights, it is not recommended to travel without a passport. If your passport is lost or stolen while abroad, you should immediately go to the nearest U.S. embassy to obtain a replacement.

Temporary IDs

While temporary IDs are not considered valid identification by the TSA, there are some things to keep in mind. If you have a temporary government-issued ID, such as a temporary driver's license, it may be accepted by the TSA. However, other types of temporary IDs, such as a temporary paper ID, are not likely to be accepted. It is always a good idea to check with the TSA in advance to confirm whether your specific type of temporary ID will be accepted. Even if your temporary ID is accepted, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a passport, birth certificate, or social security card.

In conclusion, while temporary IDs may not be valid at TSA checkpoints, there are alternative identification processes that can be followed, and certain types of temporary IDs may be accepted in some cases. It is important to arrive at the airport early and be prepared to provide additional documentation if needed.

Flying domestically without an ID

Flying without an ID is possible, but it is not a simple process. Here is a guide on how to fly domestically without an ID in the US.

Firstly, it is important to note that from May 7, 2025, all state and territory residents will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification to board a commercial aircraft. This means that your ID must have a star marking on it, indicating REAL ID compliance. If you are unsure whether your ID is compliant, check with your state department of motor vehicles.

If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, you may still be allowed to fly, but you must arrive at the airport at least two to three hours in advance of your flight time. A TSA officer will ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing 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, but you will be subject to additional screening, including a pat-down and screening of carry-on property.

It is important to note that you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you decline to provide proper identification, choose not to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed.

While a temporary ID is not considered valid identification for flying, having one may help with the identity verification process, as it proves that you are who you say you are. Additionally, having an expired ID can also help in this process.

In summary, while it is possible to fly domestically without an ID, it is not recommended, as it may cause delays and additional screening. It is always best to ensure that you have a valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification before arriving at the airport.

TSA identity verification process

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has outlined a specific identity verification process for individuals who arrive at the airport without acceptable or valid identification. This process aims to confirm the identity of the individual before they are allowed to proceed to the screening checkpoint. Here is a detailed overview of the TSA identity verification process:

Step 1: Report to a TSA Officer

If you realise that you do not have acceptable identification at the airport, you should immediately approach a TSA officer. It is important to note that this process is intended for individuals who have lost their ID, left it at home, or are in the process of a name change.

Step 2: Identity Verification Process

The TSA officer will initiate the identity verification process. This involves collecting personal information, such as your name, current address, and other relevant details, to confirm your identity. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two to three hours in advance if you do not have proper identification to allow sufficient time for this process.

Step 3: Additional Screening

If your identity is successfully confirmed by the TSA officer, you will be permitted to proceed to the screening checkpoint. However, you should be prepared for additional screening measures, which may include a pat-down and a thorough inspection of your carry-on belongings.

Step 4: Compliance and Cooperation

Throughout the identity verification process, it is crucial to remain cooperative and provide accurate information. Failure to cooperate or provide the necessary information will result in denial of entry to the security checkpoint. Additionally, it is important to follow the instructions of the TSA officers and comply with any additional screening protocols.

Step 5: Digital ID Options

TSA also offers digital ID options through select platforms, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or state-issued apps. These digital solutions provide a faster and more secure way to verify your identity. However, it is important to note that all passengers must still carry a physical ID as a backup.

In summary, while having valid identification is essential for a smooth airport security experience, the TSA identity verification process provides a safety net for individuals who find themselves without proper ID. By following the outlined steps and maintaining cooperation, individuals can still be confirmed and allowed to proceed with their travel plans.

Acceptable forms of ID

It is possible to fly with a temporary ID, but this depends on the type of temporary ID and the specific circumstances. A temporary driver's license or ID card may be accepted by the TSA, but a temporary paper ID will not be accepted. Even if your temporary ID is accepted, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a passport, birth certificate, or social security card. It is recommended that you check with the TSA and your airline in advance to confirm which forms of identification are acceptable and to allow extra time for security screening.

• U.S. passport card
• 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)
• An 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 are flying internationally, it is highly recommended that you carry a passport.

Additional documentation for temporary IDs

A temporary ID is not considered a valid form of identification at airports. According to the TSA, adult passengers aged 18 and above must present valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. However, in the absence of valid identification, travellers may still be permitted to fly. In such cases, they will have to undergo an identity verification process, which involves providing personal information such as their name and current address. If their identity is confirmed, they will be allowed to proceed to the screening checkpoint, where they will be subject to additional screening measures.

It is important to note that the TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, specific ID requirements for travellers under 18 should be confirmed with the respective airline.

Travellers without acceptable identification are advised to arrive at the airport at least two to three hours before their scheduled flight time to accommodate the additional identity verification and screening processes.

While temporary IDs may not be accepted as a standalone form of identification, having a temporary driver's license or state ID can be helpful in certain situations. For example, when applying for a REAL ID-compliant license or ID, having a temporary license can serve as proof of address or identity. Additionally, some states may issue temporary IDs with photos, which can be useful for comparison during the identity verification process at the airport.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended to always carry a valid form of identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a passport, when travelling within or outside the United States. These forms of identification are widely accepted and help streamline the security checkpoint process at airports.

Frequently asked questions