Roberta Aguirre
To get through airport security, you need to present a valid government-issued ID. The specific requirements vary depending on your location, the airport, and whether you are travelling domestically or internationally. In the US, for example, adult passengers (18 and over) must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to travel. From May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards will be accepted by TSA airport security checkpoints. Passengers without a REAL ID-compliant ID will need to present an alternative form of ID, such as a passport.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age | Adults over 18 must show valid identification at the airport. |
| Acceptable IDs | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state photo identity cards, passports, US military ID, enhanced driver's licenses, visa, and digital IDs. |
| Unacceptable IDs | Library cards, fishing licenses, school or university IDs, workplace IDs, expired IDs, and weapons permits. |
| Digital IDs | Digital IDs are accepted at over 250 airports. Passengers must still carry a physical ID. |
| REAL ID | The REAL ID Act sets higher security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and IDs. |
| Non-compliant IDs | Non-compliant IDs may result in additional screening or travel delays. |
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What You'll Learn
REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
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. This means that you will not be able to use a non-compliant ID for air travel or to enter federal facilities or military installations.
A REAL ID-compliant driver's license is a state-issued driver's license that meets the anti-terrorism security standards set by the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005. The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. When you apply for or renew your driver’s license or state identification card, you can choose to make it REAL ID-compliant. To do so, you will need to bring proof of identity (such as a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident Card), proof of a Social Security number, and proof of residency to your state driver’s licensing agency.
Once you receive your new card, it will have the REAL ID star marking at the top right. If your driver's license or state ID has this star, it is REAL ID-compliant, and you are ready to use it at the airport. If your ID is not compliant, you will need to bring another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, to the airport.
In addition to physical REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also accepts digital IDs at over 250 airports. To use a Digital ID, you must add your acceptable 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. At the TSA checkpoint, you can scan your Digital ID QR code or tap your mobile device on the digital ID reader.
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Passports
A passport is a crucial form of identification for air travel. It is a document issued by a person's government, verifying their identity and citizenship. It is typically valid for ten years and serves as proof of citizenship and identity when travelling internationally.
In the United States, a passport is one of the acceptable forms of identification for air travel. From May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted at airports. Passengers must carry a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport. This change enhances security standards for state-issued identification documents.
When travelling internationally, a passport is often required at multiple stages of the journey. It is typically checked during check-in, at the gate before boarding, and upon arrival at the destination. Some countries, like Costa Rica, require a passport to be presented at passport control upon arrival. Additionally, a passport may be needed for other activities during the trip, such as checking into hotels or renting cars.
It is essential to keep the passport on your person at all times while travelling. This ensures easy access when needed and reduces the risk of loss or theft. It is also important to note that the information in the passport must be accurate and up to date, especially when filling out any travel documents or forms.
In addition to a passport, other forms of identification may be required for specific countries. For example, Brazil requires an Electronic Visa (eVisa) for citizens of the United States for stays of up to 90 days. The United Kingdom requires citizens of the United States to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short stays of up to six months. These additional requirements vary by country and should be carefully checked before commencing travel.
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Digital IDs
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced digital IDs for identity verification at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports. Digital IDs are available through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. To use a Digital ID, passengers must add their acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to their phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or their phone's digital wallet.
To set up a Digital ID, follow the instructions provided by your device wallet or app. At the TSA checkpoint, you can scan your Digital ID QR code or tap your mobile device on the digital ID reader. If you do not wish to provide a photo, notify the TSA officer before presenting your ID. They will then use the standard ID verification process.
As of February 2025, travelers from 14 states (and Puerto Rico) can use digital IDs in lieu of physical IDs at airports with CAT-2 technology. These states include Arizona, California, Colorado, and Georgia. Digital IDs can be used at major airports such as John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Atlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Los Angeles (LAX), and New York City (LGA).
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Military IDs
For US citizens, adult passengers (18 and older) must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or a state-issued photo identity card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or its equivalent) is required. It is worth noting that a temporary driver's license is not considered acceptable identification.
It is important to remember that TSA also accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date for the above-listed forms of identification. However, this may change, so travellers are advised to check before travelling. Additionally, TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States, unless they are unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck, in which case they must show acceptable ID.
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State-issued ID cards
If you are unsure whether your state-issued ID card complies with REAL ID standards, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles. Each state has different requirements for obtaining a REAL ID-compliant ID card, so it is important to verify the necessary documentation beforehand.
It is worth noting that TSA accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date. However, this may change without notice, so it is recommended to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling.
Additionally, TSA now offers the option to use Digital IDs at over 250 airports. Digital IDs are more secure than physical IDs and can be used through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. However, passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification, and their picture will be taken and compared to their physical or digital ID.
For international travel, a passport is typically required, but there are ongoing discussions about alternative forms of identification for crossing borders.
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Frequently asked questions
Government-issued IDs that are accepted at the airport include passports, driver's licenses, state-issued IDs, and US military IDs.
The ID must be current and contain the following information: name, date of birth, gender, photograph, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature.
Yes, you can use a Digital ID on your mobile device at over 250 airports. However, you must still carry a physical ID for verification.
Yes, the TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, it is recommended that unaccompanied minors carry some form of ID.
If your identity cannot be verified, you may not be allowed to enter the secure area of the airport terminal or board your flight. The TSA may work with the airline to verify your identity through other means, but this may cause delays.
