Sachin Walls
When travelling, it is important to carry an acceptable form of identification with you to the airport. The specific requirements for identification may vary depending on factors such as your age, citizenship, and the country you are visiting. Generally, for international travel, a passport is required, and depending on the country, you may also need a visa or other additional documentation. For domestic travel within the US, adults are required to show some form of identification, such as a driver's license or state-issued ID card, although children under 18 may not need ID. Digital IDs, such as those stored in mobile wallets, are becoming an increasingly popular option, offering enhanced security and privacy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Physical ID | Passport, Green Card, Driver's License, State-issued ID, Military ID, DHS trusted traveler cards, Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe-issued ID, Employment Authorization Card, Merchant Mariner Credential |
| Digital ID | Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, State-issued app |
| Biometric technology | Facial comparison |
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What You'll Learn
Digital IDs
To use a Digital ID, you must first ensure that your state offers digital IDs to its residents. Currently, 14 states and Puerto Rico provide this service. You can then add your state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet.
The process of adding a digital ID to your phone is straightforward and quick. For iPhone users, open the Wallet app, tap the "+" button, select "Driver's License or State ID", and follow the on-screen instructions. After your submission is accepted, your digital ID will be created and stored on your device. Similarly, Apple Watch users can store digital IDs on their watches for iOS 16.5 or later. For other devices, follow the setup instructions provided by your device wallet or app.
It is important to note that while digital IDs offer convenience and enhanced security, carrying a physical and acceptable form of ID as a backup is still mandatory. This is because, in the event that your digital ID cannot be verified, the TSA officer will rely on the standard ID verification process. Additionally, participation in the digital ID program is entirely voluntary, and travellers can opt-out of facial comparison technology if they prefer.
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Physical IDs
While digital IDs are becoming increasingly common, physical IDs are still required for air travel. Here are some examples of physical IDs that are typically accepted at airports:
- Passport: A passport is a widely accepted form of identification for international travel. Most countries require a valid passport for entry, and it serves as proof of identity and citizenship. It is recommended to carry a passport, especially when travelling internationally, as it is the most universally accepted form of identification.
- Driver's License: A driver's license is a common form of identification and can be used for domestic and, in some cases, international travel. It is important to note that not all driver's licenses are accepted as valid forms of ID for international travel, so it is advisable to check with the relevant authorities before travelling. Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) are also available in some states and are specifically designed for cross-border travel.
- State-issued ID Cards: Many countries offer state-issued photo identity cards, which are often accepted as a valid form of identification for travel. These cards are typically issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles or an equivalent government agency.
- Military ID: Active-duty military personnel, retired military personnel, their dependents, and Department of Defense civilians may use their Military ID as a valid form of identification for air travel.
- Green Card: For individuals residing in a country other than their country of citizenship, a Green Card or equivalent residency permit is often accepted as a form of identification for air travel.
- Visa: When travelling internationally, a visa may be required in addition to a passport. A visa is an endorsement added to your passport, indicating that you are authorised to enter a particular country. Different countries have different visa requirements, so it is important to check before travelling.
- Tribal Identification Cards: In some countries, identification cards issued by federally recognised tribes or indigenous nations are accepted as valid forms of identification for air travel.
- Merchant Mariner Credential: This credential is issued by the U.S. Coast Guard to individuals who work on merchant vessels. It serves as both an identification document and proof of the holder's qualifications.
- DHS Trusted Traveller Cards: These include programmes such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST, which facilitate expedited travel for pre-approved, low-risk travellers. These cards can be used as identification at airports.
It is always advisable to carry a valid form of physical identification when travelling, as it may be required at various stages of your journey, including during check-in, boarding, and passing through airport security. Additionally, it is important to ensure that your ID is up to date and has not expired, as most forms of identification are only accepted if they are current.
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International travel ID requirements
Passport: A passport is a primary form of identification for international travel. Most countries require a valid passport for entry and exit. Passports must be up-to-date and preferably have blank pages for stamps and visas. Some countries may require your passport to be valid for a minimum period beyond your intended stay.
Visa: Depending on your destination and purpose of travel, you may need to obtain a visa. Visas are official authorizations added to your passport, allowing you to enter and stay in a particular country for a specified period. Visas can be obtained from the embassy or consulate of the country you plan to visit.
Driver's License or State-issued ID: For air travel, some countries may accept a valid driver's license or state-issued ID card as alternative forms of identification. However, it is important to check if the country you are visiting accepts these as valid forms of ID. Additionally, ensure that your driver's license complies with any REAL ID requirements.
Health and Vaccination Records: In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries now require proof of negative COVID-19 test results or recovery from the virus for entry. Additionally, certain countries may have specific vaccination requirements, such as a yellow fever certificate.
Traveler Programs: Some countries offer trusted traveler programs, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST, which facilitate expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. Enrollment in such programs can serve as a form of identification and expedite your passage through immigration and customs.
Other Country-Specific Requirements: Aside from the standard ID requirements, some countries may have unique entry requirements. For example, the United Kingdom requires citizens of certain countries to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short stays of up to six months. Always check the specific requirements for your destination, including any customs regulations.
It is essential to stay informed about the ID requirements for your specific travel plans. Check with the relevant embassies or consulates or official government websites for detailed and up-to-date information. Additionally, keep yourself apprised of any changes or updates to the accepted forms of identification, such as the implementation of digital IDs and facial comparison technology at airports.
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Domestic travel ID requirements
As of May 7, 2025, all travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights in the US. This means that state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports.
REAL ID-compliant forms of identification include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)—these bear a US flag marking instead of a star and are equally acceptable for domestic air travel.
- US passports or passport cards
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- US Department of Defense IDs, including IDs issued to dependents
- Acceptable photo IDs issued by federally recognized Tribal Nations/Indian Tribes, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant ID, you may be directed to a separate area and may be subject to additional screening. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process that 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 may be subject to additional screening.
Expired IDs are accepted up to two years after their expiration date. Children under 18 traveling within the US are not required to provide identification, although unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
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ID requirements for minors
While TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States, some individual airlines may ask for some form of identification for minors. It is always good to carry an acceptable ID for minors to be allowed through security checkpoints at airports.
Unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. TSA accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration. REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) are considered acceptable identification. A temporary driver's license is not acceptable. State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced IDs (EID) are also accepted.
Other acceptable forms of ID for minors include a U.S. passport, DHS trusted traveller cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. Department of Defense ID, an acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognised Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETC), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorisation Card (I-766), and U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential.
Digital IDs are now accepted at more than 250 airports to verify identity at TSA checkpoints through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet or a state-issued app. However, passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several forms of ID that are accepted by the TSA, including:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards
- U.S. passports
- Green cards
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
If you don't have any acceptable ID, you should arrive at the airport early and bring whatever forms of identification you do have. The TSA may be able to verify your identity and allow you to fly.
While none of these are guaranteed to work, some other forms of ID that may be accepted include:
- Costco membership cards
- Credit cards
- Checkbooks
- Business cards (with photo)
- Utility bills
- Educational diplomas
Yes, some airports use biometric technology to verify a passenger's identity.
No, the TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States.
