Roberta Aguirre
When travelling through airports, it is important to carry valid identification documents. The specific requirements may vary depending on your destination, age, and whether you are travelling internationally or domestically. Generally, adult passengers aged 18 and over must present valid identification at the airport checkpoint. Acceptable forms of ID include passports, driver's licenses, state-issued IDs, and other government-issued photo IDs. It is recommended to check the specific requirements for your destination and always carry acceptable identification to ensure a smooth travel experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| TSA-compliant | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued IDs, passports, visas, U.S. military ID cards, birth certificates, Global Entry cards |
| Not TSA-compliant | Library cards, fishing licenses, school or university IDs, workplace IDs, expired IDs, weapons permits |
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What You'll Learn
Passports, visas, and other travel documents
A passport is one of the most widely accepted forms of identification at airports. It is required for international travel from and to the US, and it is also accepted for domestic US flights. However, it is important to note that an expired passport is not considered a valid form of identification.
In the US, state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards are also commonly accepted at airports, including TSA checkpoints. However, these must be REAL ID-compliant as of May 7, 2025. Before this date, standard licenses and IDs were accepted. An enhanced driver's license (EDL) or enhanced ID (EID) is also an option for US citizens, as it allows land, sea, and air travel within the US and to bordering countries.
For US citizens, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state-issued photo ID card is required for domestic flights as of May 7, 2025. This includes licenses and IDs issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). For international flights, a passport is typically required, and other documents, such as a visa, may also be necessary. It is always recommended to check with your airline to confirm the specific identification requirements for your destination.
In addition to passports and driver's licenses, other forms of identification, such as Global Entry cards, military IDs, and birth certificates, may be accepted at airports. However, it is important to note that certain common ID cards, such as library cards, school IDs, and workplace IDs, are generally not considered acceptable forms of identification at TSA checkpoints.
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REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
As per the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005, minimum security standards have been established for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. This means that federal agencies, including DHS and TSA, will only accept state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards as identification for accessing federal facilities, including TSA airport security checkpoints, if they are REAL ID-compliant.
It is important to note that starting on May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers who do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, may be directed to a separate area and may be subject to additional screening.
In addition to REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) are also accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. EDLs provide proof of identity, U.S. citizenship, and additional information. While the TSA previously accepted all types of state-issued driver's licenses, they now only consider EDLs as acceptable forms of ID. Currently, EDLs issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards.
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State-issued IDs
State-issued enhanced driver's licenses are also accepted at airport security checkpoints. These provide proof of identity and US citizenship and are marked with a flag. An example is the enhanced driver's license (EDL) or enhanced ID (EID), which allows travel within the US and to bordering countries by land and sea.
It is important to note that TSA requirements for identification are subject to change without notice. It is recommended that passengers check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have the correct identification.
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Military IDs
The TSA has clarified that DoD Common Access Cards, Uniformed Services ID cards, and the older DoD ID cards for military family members and retirees are acceptable forms of identification. Personal Identity Verification Cards issued to some Defense Department civilian personnel are also accepted.
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice, and travelers are strongly encouraged to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have the proper documentation. This is especially important for those with state-issued IDs, as non-REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and IDs will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports from May 7, 2025.
In addition to Military IDs, other acceptable forms of identification for domestic travel within the US include REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, passports, passport cards, and DHS trusted traveler cards. For international travel from the US, airlines typically require a passport, visa, or other documents confirming that the passenger is allowed to fly to their destination.
While TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the US, unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
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Birth certificates
While birth certificates are not considered a valid form of identification at airports, they can be used as a supporting document to prove your identity. This is only in the case that you do not have a valid ID. If you arrive at the airport without a valid ID, you may still be allowed to fly. However, you will be subjected to additional screening and a pat-down, and your luggage will be thoroughly checked. In addition, you will need to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal information. Only after your identity has been confirmed will you be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. Therefore, it is recommended to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure you have the proper documentation.
For US citizens, a long-form state/territory-issued certified/sealed birth certificate is required. This certificate must include the full names of both parents, although an "unknown" entry for one or both parents is acceptable as long as the parent name fields are present. Birth registration cards, birth notification cards, and birth registration records are not considered acceptable forms of identification.
For those with Puerto Rican birth certificates, only those issued on or after July 1, 2010, will be accepted as primary evidence of US citizenship. This is due to a law passed by the Government of Puerto Rico to combat passport fraud and identity theft.
While birth certificates can be used as supporting documentation, it is always best to arrive at the airport with a valid form of ID to avoid any delays or complications.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several forms of identification that can be used at the airport. These include:
- Passport
- Driver's license
- State-issued ID
- Global Entry card
- Green card
For domestic airline flights in the US, TSA does not require IDs for travellers under the age of 18. However, this may vary depending on the airline and country. It is recommended to contact the airline for specific ID requirements.
Yes, common ID cards such as library cards, school IDs, and workplace IDs are typically not accepted as valid forms of identification.
If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name, address, and other personal details.
Yes, as of May 7, 2025, travellers over the age of 18 will need a state-issued REAL ID-compliant license or identification card to fly within the United States.
