Airports And Passports: What's The Deal?

If you're travelling within the US, you may be wondering if you need a passport to fly. The good news is that American citizens do not currently need a passport to fly domestically. However, starting on May 7, 2025, all travellers aged 18 and over will need to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued enhanced driver's license, a valid passport, or a US military ID. This change was implemented by the REAL ID Act, which requires IDs issued by states to meet federal security standards. So, while a passport is not strictly necessary for domestic travel, it can be used as a form of REAL ID. For international travel, a passport is always required.

Domestic flights: Passports are not needed for domestic US flights, but REAL ID-compliant ID is

If you are travelling within the US, you do not need a passport. However, you will need to bring a valid form of identification with you to the airport. This can be a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued ID card, or a military ID.

From May 7, 2025, every air traveller aged 18 or over will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card, a state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another TSA-acceptable form of identification at airport security checkpoints for domestic air travel. This is due to the REAL ID Act, which requires IDs issued by states to meet federal security standards.

The REAL ID deadline has been extended several times. It was originally due to come into force in October 2021, but the COVID-19 pandemic pushed it back to May 2023, and then again to May 7, 2025.

If you are unsure whether your ID is compliant, check with your state department of motor vehicles. If you do not have a REAL ID, you can apply for one, or consider applying for a US passport book or card.

International flights: Passports are always needed for international flights

International flights always require a passport. This is a requirement regardless of your nationality or the country you are travelling to or from. A passport will always be required when crossing international borders.

A passport is an essential document for international travel. It serves as proof of your identity and citizenship, and it is required to enter and exit most countries. When travelling internationally, you will need to present your passport at various points during your journey, including airport check-in, immigration, and customs. Your passport will be checked and stamped by officials, who will verify your identity and ensure you have the proper documentation for your destination.

It is important to ensure that your passport is valid and up-to-date before embarking on international travel. Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months from the date of entry, and some countries may also require a minimum number of blank pages in your passport. It is also essential to keep your passport secure and safely stored when travelling, as it is a valuable document.

In addition to a passport, there may be other specific entry and exit requirements for your destination country. These may include visas, vaccination certificates, or other relevant documentation. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements for your intended journey. Failure to do so may result in denied entry or delays in your travel plans.

TSA-accepted IDs: The TSA accepts several photo IDs, including foreign passports

For domestic flights in the US, passengers aged 18 and over will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to fly from May 7, 2025. This includes a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another acceptable form of ID.

The TSA accepts several photo IDs when boarding domestic flights, including foreign government-issued passports. Here is a list of TSA-accepted IDs:

• 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
• Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
• 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)

It is important to note that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States.

REAL ID: From May 7, 2025, all US air travellers aged 18+ must have a REAL ID-compliant form of ID

Yes, you do need a valid form of identification at the airport. This includes a passport, which is a widely accepted form of ID.

REAL ID Requirements at Airports

From May 7, 2025, all US air travellers aged 18 and above must have a REAL ID-compliant form of ID to fly within the United States. This applies to domestic flights and access to certain federal facilities. The REAL ID Act requires state-issued IDs to meet federal security standards.

If you plan to use your state-issued ID or driver's license to fly within the US, it must be REAL ID-compliant. You can check with your state department of motor vehicles to see if your ID complies with REAL ID standards. IDs that are REAL ID-compliant typically have a star or a flag, or the word "Enhanced" on them.

If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant ID, you will need another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, to fly domestically. A passport card is a cheaper alternative to the passport book, but it is not valid for international air travel.

It is important to note that this requirement only applies to adult passengers aged 18 and above. TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States.

Passport applications: First-time passport applications must be made in person; renewals can be done by mail

When travelling, it is important to carry a valid form of identification. While this does not always need to be a passport, it is a commonly used form of ID at airports.

First-Time Passport Applications

First-time passport applicants must apply in person. To do this, you must:

• Fill out your form online and print it.
• Get evidence of U.S. citizenship (and a photocopy).
• Get a photo ID (and a photocopy).
• Determine if there are any special circumstances that may affect your application.
• Find a location to apply.
• Pay the application acceptance fee and the application processing fee.

Passport Renewal Applications

If you are eligible to renew your passport, you can do so by mail. To renew your passport by mail, you must:

• Check your eligibility to renew by mail.
• Prepare your application package.
• Mail your renewal application.
• Follow your application's progress.

Frequently asked questions