Ruth Haines
There are several types of identification documents that can be used at the airport. The type of ID required depends on the country and nature of travel, i.e. international or domestic. Generally, for international travel, a passport, visa, or other similar documents are required. For domestic travel, common forms of acceptable ID include a driver's license, state-issued ID, or a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. It is important to note that certain IDs, such as library cards, school IDs, and expired IDs, are typically not accepted at airports.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age requirement | Passengers 18 and older must show valid identification |
| Acceptable IDs | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state-issued photo identity cards, passports, visas, green cards, military IDs, enhanced driver's licenses (EDL) or enhanced ID (EID) |
| Unacceptable IDs | Temporary driver's licenses, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant (from May 7, 2025) |
| Additional requirements | Name, current address, and other personal information may be requested for identity verification |
| TSA requirements | Same for domestic and international passengers |
| Airline requirements | May vary, some may require a photo ID, others may only need a boarding pass |
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REAL ID-compliant documents
As of May 2025, only REAL ID-compliant documents will be accepted as valid forms of identification at US airports. REAL ID-compliant documents include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- Other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- US passports
- US passport cards
- US Military ID
If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles.
If you are flying internationally, you will need a passport and other required documentation to complete your journey.
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Passports
For US domestic flights, a passport is not required, although it is one of the most common forms of ID. Other acceptable forms of ID include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued ID, a state-issued enhanced driver's license, or a US military ID. 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.
For international flights, a passport is required. Some countries require that your passport is valid for at least six months from when you arrive, and some also require you to have a minimum of four blank pages.
If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, you may still be allowed to fly. A TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which 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 will be subject to additional screening.
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Visas
A visa is a document that allows a foreign citizen to travel to a port of entry in a country and request permission to enter. A visa does not guarantee entry. For instance, a foreign citizen with a Dominican Republic passport would need a transit visa to enter the US, even for a layover. However, they would not need a visa to enter Japan.
There are two types of visas: immigrant and non-immigrant. Immigrant visas are for those who wish to permanently reside in the country they are travelling to. Non-immigrant visas are for those who wish to stay temporarily, for business or tourism.
If you are seeking a visa for medical treatment, you may need to provide further documents, including a medical diagnosis from a local physician, a letter from a physician or medical facility in the country you are travelling to, and proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses will be paid.
If you intend to get a Visa on Arrival, it is recommended that you bring proof to the airport, as check-in staff need to approve your boarding.
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State-issued IDs
If your state-issued ID is not REAL ID-compliant, you will need to present another acceptable form of ID, such as a passport, or a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. If you do not have another form of ID, you may still be allowed to fly, but you will be directed to a separate area for additional screening. The TSA officer will ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing 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 will be subject to additional screening.
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. It is recommended that you check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure that you have the correct documentation.
In the case of domestic flights within the US, some airlines may not require a photo ID to board the plane or at check-in. However, other airlines may require a photo ID, so it is important to check with your airline before travelling.
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Military IDs
In 2020, the Defense Department introduced new ID cards, known as USIDs, for active-duty family members, military retirees and their dependents, reservists, and Medal of Honor recipients. These cards are similar to Common Access Cards issued to active-duty personnel but do not have a built-in chip. They feature durable lamination, full-colour photos, and enhanced security features to prevent counterfeiting and misuse.
While the TSA's initial inability to scan USIDs was largely fixed with a software update in 2022, the problem persists for IDs with an "INDEF" date. This has caused frustration among retirees, with some expressing their disappointment at potentially having to switch to a state driver's license or passport for travel.
It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs provided by the TSA is subject to change without notice. Passengers are strongly advised to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure they have the appropriate documentation.
In addition to Military IDs, other acceptable forms of identification for domestic US travel include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State-issued photo identity cards
- Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- Passports
- Global Entry cards
- Veteran Health Identification Cards
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Frequently asked questions
For international flights, a passport is required. For domestic US flights, TSA accepts a range of IDs, including: US Military ID, REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, Enhanced Driver's Licenses, state-issued IDs, and passports.
TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the US. However, some airlines do require ID for unaccompanied minors.
TSA currently accepts expired ID up to two years after its expiration date.
If you don't have an acceptable ID, you should arrive early and bring whatever documents you do have. The TSA can work with the airline to verify your identity.
The TSA has procedures in place to allow passengers without ID to fly on domestic flights. You will be asked to complete an identity verification process, which includes collecting your name, address, and other personal information.
