Jazmin Li
One of the most important security measures at an airport is confirming the identity of travellers. At airports in the US and its territories, adult passengers aged 18 and over must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. This can include a driving licence, passport, or other forms of photo ID. From May 7, 2025, travellers aged 18 and over will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's licence or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the US. Children travelling with adults on domestic flights may not need photo ID, but airlines may ask for proof of age. For international travel, children need to go through the same verification process as adults and will need a passport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who needs to show ID? | Adult passengers 18 and older |
| Where do they need to show ID? | At the airport checkpoint |
| What type of ID do they need? | A valid photo ID, such as a driving license or passport |
| What if they don't have ID? | They may be asked to complete an identity verification process, or they may be denied entry to the security checkpoint |
| What if their ID is expired? | TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to a year after expiration |
| What if they are under 18? | TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the US, but airlines may ask for proof of age |
| What if they are traveling internationally? | They will need to present a passport |
What You'll Learn
What counts as a valid ID at the airport?
In the US, every adult passenger must show some form of identification that is acceptable to the TSA in order to travel. This requirement is in place at the airport security checkpoint. From May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs used to fly within the US must be REAL ID-compliant.
Acceptable forms of ID for domestic US travel include:
- A passport or a driver's license
- State-issued ID
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- US Military ID
- Permanent Resident Card
- Border crossing card
- DHS-designated enhanced driver's license
- Native American tribal photo ID
- Airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Children under 18 do not need to provide identification when travelling within the US. However, it is recommended that children travelling alone carry some form of ID. For international flights to or from the US, all passengers, including infants, must have a passport.
For international travel from the US, the TSA's ID requirements are the same as for domestic travel. However, airlines will require a passport, visa, or other documentation to confirm that passengers are permitted to fly to their destination.
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What happens if you don't have a valid ID?
In the case that you arrive at the airport without a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly. However, you will need to go through an identity verification process. This includes providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal information. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but may be subject to additional screening. This could include a pat-down and screening of your carry-on property.
It is important to note that you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you choose not to provide identification, decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed. The TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least three hours in advance of their flight time.
To make the identity verification process smoother, it is advisable to remain calm and answer any questions thoughtfully and truthfully. It is also important to keep your cellphone away during this process, as it may interfere with the validity of your answers.
While it is possible to fly within the US without an ID, traveling internationally without one can be more challenging. In most cases, a passport is required for international travel. If you lose your passport while abroad, it is recommended to go to the nearest US embassy to get a replacement as soon as possible.
What happens if your ID is fake?
At the airport, adult passengers aged 18 and above must present valid identification at the checkpoint to be allowed to travel. This can include a driver's license, state-issued ID, DHS trusted traveler cards, a foreign government-issued passport, and more.
If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. A TSA officer 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, but you may be subject to additional screening.
If you are found to be using a fake ID at the airport, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. TSA officers are equipped with Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which is an effective tool for detecting fraudulent IDs while confirming the identity and flight information of travelers. When a CAT unit is in use, the TSA officer will scan and analyze your photo ID, and if it is found to be fake, you will not be permitted to proceed.
Using a fake ID is considered a serious offense and can result in legal consequences. It is important to ensure that you have valid and acceptable identification when traveling to avoid any issues or delays at the airport.
What happens if you're under 18?
If you are under 18, you do not need to provide identification when travelling within the United States. The TSA does not require children under 18 to show ID when travelling domestically. However, it is worth noting that each airline has its own policies and requirements for minors, so it is always best to contact your airline well in advance of your travel date to determine if they require ID from minors.
For international travel, minors under 18 must present the same travel documents as adults. This means that a passport or other valid form of identification will be required.
In some cases, minors may be asked to provide identification at the airport, even for domestic travel. This could be due to specific airline policies or other factors. It is always a good idea to have a form of identification with you when travelling, even if it is not strictly required.
If you are under 18 and do not have acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. A TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name and current address. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint and continue with your travel plans.
What happens if you're travelling internationally?
When travelling internationally, you will need to show a passport or equivalent document at the airport. This is the case whether you are travelling to or from the US, or between other countries. Depending on your destination, you may also need a visa or other additional documentation. It is recommended that you check the requirements of both your airline and the countries you wish to visit.
For US residents, a REAL ID-compliant card can be used for domestic flights and to enter federal facilities, including airports. These cards feature a star in the top right corner. If you do not have a REAL ID, you will need to show an alternative form of TSA-approved ID, such as a passport or passport card. From May 7, 2025, all US residents will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification to access federal facilities and board commercial aircraft.
If you are travelling without children, you will not need to provide identification for them. However, if you are travelling with children, you may need to provide proof of their age, such as a birth certificate or passport. Again, it is recommended that you check with your airline for specific ID requirements.
In some cases, you may be able to board a flight without a physical ID. For example, if you have a digital ID on your smartphone, you may be able to use facial recognition technology to verify your identity at select TSA checkpoints. However, it is still recommended that you carry a physical ID as a backup.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, at all airports operating in the US or its territories, you'll need to go through a strict identification process before boarding a flight.
Accepted forms of ID include driving licenses, U.S. passport cards, U.S. passports, Department of Defense IDs, permanent resident cards, border crossing cards, state-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses, DHS trusted traveler cards, tribal-issued photo IDs, foreign government-issued passports, Canadian provincial driver’s licenses, Transportation Worker Identification Credentials, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Cards, U.S. Merchant Mariner Credentials, and Veteran Health Identification Cards.
If you don't have a valid ID, you may not be allowed to board your flight. In some cases, the security officer may ask you a series of questions to verify your identity, such as your address, workplace, and marital status. You may also be subject to additional screening of your luggage and electronic devices.
