Sachin Walls
When travelling, it is important to carry an acceptable form of identification. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the country and type of travel (domestic or international), here is a general overview of the forms of ID accepted at airports. In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires passengers to present acceptable identification at airport security checkpoints. This includes REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, passports, and other forms of identification mentioned below. It is always recommended to check the specific requirements for your departure airport and destination to ensure a smooth travel experience.
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What You'll Learn
Passports are a valid form of ID
For those travelling by air, a passport is a universally accepted form of ID. In the US, for instance, a passport is one of the most common forms of ID for air travel. The TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable IDs before arriving at the airport. As of 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 should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID.
A passport is also necessary for international flights to and from the US. Airlines require that passengers show a passport, visa, or some other kind of document to confirm that they are allowed to fly to their destination. This is in addition to the ID requirements for getting through TSA security.
In the case of domestic US flights, passengers may not need to use their ID to get a boarding pass or to board the plane. However, some airlines do require passengers to present a photo ID at check-in. A passport is one of the acceptable forms of photo ID for domestic US flights.
It is worth noting that TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to two years after expiration. However, TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States.
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REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses are required
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. This means that if your driver's license or state ID does not have a star in the upper right-hand corner, you will need another acceptable form of ID to fly. These alternative forms of ID include a passport, passport card, or state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). A U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents, is also an acceptable form of ID.
If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles. To apply for a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, you can visit your state's driver's licensing agency website to find out what documentation is required. In most cases, you will need to provide proof of identity, such as a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) if you are a non-U.S. citizen. You will also need to provide proof of a Social Security number and proof of residency.
It is important to note that if you arrive at the airport without valid identification, you may still be allowed to fly. However, you will be directed to a separate area for additional screening, and a TSA officer will ask you to complete an identity verification process. This process includes collecting 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 may be subject to further screening, including a pat-down and screening of your carry-on property.
REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses are also required to enter certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants. The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. This Act prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant driver's licenses and identification cards for certain official purposes.
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State-issued IDs are accepted
From January 2018 onwards, only enhanced driver's licenses are considered acceptable forms of ID. However, the TSA will accept driver's licenses from any US state. It is important to note that temporary driver's licenses are not considered acceptable forms of identification.
If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID standards, it is recommended to check with your state department of motor vehicles. As of May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers with non-compliant IDs will be notified of their non-compliance and may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
In addition to state-issued IDs, other acceptable forms of identification include a U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including those issued to dependents. An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, such as an Enhanced Tribal Card (ETC), is also valid.
It is worth noting that the list of acceptable IDs may change without notice, so it is always advisable to check before travelling to ensure you have the appropriate identification.
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Military IDs are allowed
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs can change without notice, and passengers are strongly encouraged to check the list of accepted IDs before travelling to ensure they have the correct documentation. From 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 should either carry an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID.
If a passenger arrives at the airport without valid identification, they may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask the passenger to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as their name, current address, and other personal information to confirm their identity. If the identity is confirmed, the passenger will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but will be subject to additional screening, including a pat down and screening of carry-on property.
For international flights, a passport is the most commonly accepted form of identification. A green card may also be accepted as a valid form of identification when travelling internationally, in addition to a passport.
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Green cards are superior to state IDs
As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers without a REAL ID-compliant driver's license must present an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a Green Card.
Green Cards, officially known as Permanent Resident Cards, are issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. They are considered acceptable identification by the TSA and are superior to state IDs in several ways. Firstly, Green Cards are valid for international travel, whereas state IDs are only valid for domestic travel within the United States. This means that with a Green Card, you can travel to and from other countries without the need for additional documentation.
Secondly, Green Cards are more widely accepted as proof of identity. While state IDs are typically only recognized within the issuing state or country, Green Cards are accepted as valid identification across the United States, regardless of the state. This means that with a Green Card, you won't need to worry about your ID being accepted when traveling to a different state or dealing with federal agencies.
Additionally, Green Cards offer certain benefits that state IDs do not. For example, Green Card holders may be eligible for certain government benefits and services, such as Social Security benefits or federal student aid. They may also have an easier time obtaining a driver's license or state ID in the future, as a Green Card can serve as proof of identity and legal status during the application process.
Furthermore, Green Cards provide proof of legal residence and employment authorization in the United States. This can be especially important for individuals seeking employment or applying for certain benefits or services that require proof of legal status. In contrast, state IDs typically only provide proof of identity and residency within a particular state, and may not be sufficient for certain federal or immigration-related purposes.
In conclusion, Green Cards are superior to state IDs when it comes to airport identification and overall functionality. They are more widely accepted, offer additional benefits, and provide proof of legal residence and employment authorization. While state IDs have their own utility, particularly for in-state identification purposes, Green Cards offer greater flexibility and convenience, especially for individuals who frequently travel or interact with federal agencies.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends. While the TSA does not require IDs for travelers under 18, each airline has its own requirements. However, adults over 18 are required by the TSA to have a valid form of identification.
Acceptable forms of ID include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued ID, passport, military ID, and Global Entry card.
If you don't have an acceptable ID, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport early. The TSA and the airline can work together to verify your identity using other documents and get you through airport security.
The TSA currently accepts expired IDs up to one or two years after expiration.
If the name on your reservation is different from your ID, contact your airline to see if they can change the name on your booking.
