Jazmin Li
When travelling, it is important to carry valid identification documents to ensure a smooth journey through security and border control. The type of identification required can vary depending on factors such as the country of issue, destination country, and traveller's age. In the US, adult passengers aged 18 and over must present valid identification at the airport, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport. Children under 18 travelling within the US are typically exempt from this requirement, but unaccompanied minors eligible for TSA PreCheck must show acceptable ID. International travel usually necessitates a passport or equivalent, and it is worth noting that some countries may have specific entry requirements, such as proof of vaccination or a visa. It is always advisable to check the relevant government websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information before travelling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Required for | Passengers 18 years and older |
| Valid ID types | REAL ID-compliant driver's license, passport, Global Entry card, US Military ID, state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID) |
| TSA requirements | Name, date of birth, gender, photograph, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature |
| TSA flexibility | Accepts expired ID up to two years after expiration |
| International flights | Passport or equivalent |
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What You'll Learn
- State-issued IDs, e.g. driver's licenses, are acceptable
- Passports are required for international flights
- REAL ID-compliant IDs are mandatory for US domestic flights from May 2025
- Minors don't need ID when travelling within the US
- If you don't have ID, you may be allowed to fly after an identity verification process
State-issued IDs, e.g. driver's licenses, are acceptable
In the US, adult passengers aged 18 and over must present valid identification at the airport in order to travel. State-issued IDs, such as driver's licenses, are acceptable forms of ID for air travel. These include standard driver's licenses issued by any US state, as well as enhanced driver's licenses (EDLs) that provide proof of identity, US citizenship, and additional information. It is important to note that starting May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and state-issued IDs will be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers who present non-compliant IDs without another acceptable alternative form of ID will be notified of their non-compliance and may be subject to additional screening.
State-issued driver's licenses or IDs that are REAL ID-compliant meet the minimum security standards established by the REAL ID Act passed by Congress in 2005. This Act prohibits federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), from accepting non-compliant IDs for certain official purposes. To ensure your state-issued ID is REAL ID-compliant, it is recommended to check with your state department of motor vehicles. They can provide guidance on REAL ID requirements and assist you in obtaining a compliant ID if needed.
It is worth mentioning that TSA accepts other forms of identification besides state-issued driver's licenses and IDs. These alternatives include passports, US military IDs (for active-duty or retired military personnel and their dependents, and Department of Defense civilians), and Global Entry cards. Additionally, TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to two years after expiration, providing flexibility for travelers who may have forgotten to renew their documents.
For domestic US travel, an acceptable ID should be current and contain essential information, including the individual's name, date of birth, gender, photograph, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature. While state-issued driver's licenses and IDs are commonly used, it is always a good idea to check the TSA's list of acceptable IDs before traveling to ensure you have the proper documentation and avoid any delays or issues at the airport.
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Passports are required for international flights
For international flights, a passport is required. This is the case for both US and non-US citizens. US citizens can use a passport or a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) as proof of identity and citizenship. Non-US citizens will need to present their passport and any other required documentation, such as a visa.
In the US, adult passengers (18 and over) must show valid identification at the airport to travel. This can include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued ID card, or a passport. From May 2025, only REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses will be accepted, and state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted. Passengers with non-compliant IDs will need to present an alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or they may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
It is always worth checking the specific ID requirements for your destination and airline before travelling, as some countries and airlines may have different requirements. For example, some airlines require unaccompanied minors to show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening.
If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA and the airline can work together to verify your identity and get you through airport security. This may include providing information such as your name, current address, and other personal information. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but will be subject to additional screening.
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REAL ID-compliant IDs are mandatory for US domestic flights from May 2025
As of May 7, 2025, all US travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant license or ID to board domestic commercial flights and access certain federal facilities. This means that 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 new rule was established by the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, which enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government set standards for the issuance of identification documents, such as driver's licenses and identification cards. The Act establishes minimum security standards for license issuance and production and prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant IDs.
If you plan to travel domestically within the US after May 7, 2025, and you typically use your driver's license or non-driver ID, you will need to obtain a REAL ID-compliant ID. This can be done through your state DMV office. Alternatively, you can use another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, which is also accepted at airport security checkpoints.
It is important to note that the TSA does not require IDs for travelers under the age of 18 when traveling within the United States. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID to receive expedited screening. For adult passengers, it is mandatory to show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel.
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Minors don't need ID when travelling within the US
When travelling within the US, minors under the age of 18 are generally not required to show ID at the airport. This includes domestic airline flights. However, unaccompanied minors who are eligible for TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable form of ID to receive expedited screening. It is always good to check with the airline regarding their specific ID requirements for travellers under 18.
According to the TSA Identification Requirements, adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed onto their flight. This includes a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued photo identity card, a passport, or a state-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL). These IDs must be current and contain the name, date of birth, gender, photograph, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature.
Starting 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 for domestic flights. Passengers must either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID or enroll for a REAL ID through their state DMV office.
In addition to the IDs mentioned above, other acceptable forms of identification include DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. Department of Defense ID, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766), and a U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential.
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If you don't have ID, you may be allowed to fly after an identity verification process
If you are an adult passenger (18 or older) and don't have an acceptable ID, you may still be allowed to fly after an identity verification process. However, this only applies to domestic flights within the United States. For international flights, a passport or equivalent proof of identity and citizenship is required.
According to the TSA, if you arrive at an airport without valid identification, make sure to get to the airport at least two hours before your flight and enter the security line as normal. When you reach the front of the line, explain your situation to the TSA agent, who will guide you through the identity verification process. This process involves collecting information such as your name, current address, and other personal information to confirm your identity. It is important to note that the verification process can be lengthy, so arriving early is crucial.
During the identity verification process, it is essential to remain calm and answer any questions thoughtfully, truthfully, and calmly. While a photo of your ID is not an acceptable form of identification, bringing any documents or items with your name on them, such as insurance cards, mail, or medication, can be helpful. Additionally, having multiple items with your name on them may be required for the verification process.
It is worth noting that TSA requirements for acceptable identification are subject to change without notice. Therefore, it is strongly recommended to check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling to ensure you have the proper documentation. 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 are advised to carry alternative forms of identification, such as a passport, or to enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
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Frequently asked questions
You can show various IDs at the airport, including a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a passport, a state-issued ID card, a US Military ID, or a Green Card.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, sets minimum security standards for issuing licenses and prohibits federal agencies from accepting non-compliant IDs.
Yes, temporary driver's licenses and state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant are not accepted as valid forms of identification at airports.
Yes, if you don't have an acceptable ID, you should arrive at the airport early and bring any other form of identification you have. The TSA and the airline can work together to verify your identity using other means.
Yes, the ID requirements for international flights are typically more stringent. While a passport is always accepted for international flights, some forms of state-issued IDs may not be accepted, and additional documentation may be required.
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