Lois Larson
As of 2025, all passengers must present an acceptable physical identity document, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport, at airport security checkpoints. While digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports via platforms like Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, passengers must still carry a physical ID as a backup. A temporary driver's license or a picture of an ID is not considered an acceptable form of identification at airports.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Digital IDs accepted | Yes, at more than 250 airports through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app |
| Physical IDs required | Yes |
| REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses accepted | Yes |
| State-issued IDs accepted | Yes, REAL ID-compliant |
| Expired IDs accepted | Yes, up to two years after expiration |
| Children under 18 required to show ID | No, when traveling within the United States |
| Facial recognition technology required | No, it is voluntary |
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What You'll Learn
TSA checkpoints and REAL ID compliance
Beginning May 7, 2025, state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at TSA checkpoints. This means that passengers must either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
Adult passengers (18 and older) must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be allowed to travel. TSA strongly encourages checking the acceptable forms of ID before traveling so that passengers do not arrive at the airport without acceptable ID.
REAL ID-compliant forms of identification include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses
- State photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETC)
TSA also accepts digital IDs for identity verification through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. Digital IDs are more secure and private than physical credentials, as they reduce the risk of fraud and allow passengers to control the use of their personal information. Facial recognition technology is voluntary, and passengers can decline to have their photo taken.
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Digital IDs and facial recognition technology
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is committed to protecting traveler privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties while improving the overall traveler experience through its exploration of identity verification technologies. TSA has introduced facial recognition technology into the screening process at select airports. This technology helps ensure that the person standing at the checkpoint matches the ID credential.
Digital IDs are now accepted at over 250 airports, including TSA checkpoints, through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. Digital IDs are more secure than physical credentials, which can be counterfeit or fraudulent. They also offer more privacy, as only the information necessary for identity verification is shared with the TSA. It is important to note that passengers must still carry an acceptable, compliant physical ID for verification.
To use a Digital ID, passengers can 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. At the checkpoint, passengers can scan their Digital ID QR code or tap their mobile device on the digital ID reader. TSA officers use biometric cameras to assist with identity verification, and passengers can choose to opt out of the optional photo component of the process.
Facial recognition technology is voluntary, and travelers who do not wish to participate can decline to have their photo taken without consequence. TSA posts signage at checkpoints using facial recognition technology, clearly stating the traveler's right to decline. The photos are used solely for identity verification and are not employed for surveillance or law enforcement, or shared with other entities.
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Acceptable physical identity documents
While some airports now accept digital IDs, such as those stored in Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app, physical identity documents are still required for verification. This is because digital IDs are not yet REAL ID-compliant, and a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or other state photo identity card is required to fly.
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. This means passengers should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enroll for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
REAL ID-compliant cards will have one of the following markings on the upper top portion of the card. If the card does not have one of these markings, it is not REAL ID-compliant and won't be accepted as proof of identity when boarding a commercial aircraft. State-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) and identification cards (EIDs) are designated as acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards and will also be accepted for official REAL ID purposes. Only five states currently issue EDLs/EIDs: Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.
The TSA strongly encourages travelers to check the list of acceptable IDs before traveling, as the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. It is also important to note that TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to two years after expiration for the above-listed forms of identification.
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Identity verification process
Identity verification is a crucial process at airport security checkpoints to ensure that passengers can travel safely. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has outlined specific requirements for acceptable forms of identification for travelers.
Adult passengers aged 18 and older must present valid identification at the airport checkpoint to be permitted to travel. It is important to note that the list of acceptable IDs may change without prior notice, so travelers are strongly advised to check the list before their journey to ensure they have the appropriate documentation.
The TSA accepts REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or its equivalent. Temporary driver's licenses are not considered acceptable forms of identification. For those who do not possess a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID) is also acceptable.
Additionally, the TSA accepts other forms of identification, such as a valid passport, a U.S. passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (including Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST), and a U.S. Department of Defense ID. An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs), is also permitted.
In recent years, the TSA has also introduced the option of digital identity verification through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. Digital IDs are considered more secure and private than physical credentials, reducing the risk of fraud. However, passengers opting for digital IDs must still carry a physical form of acceptable compliant identification for verification.
It is worth noting that TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, travelers under 18 should contact the airline for specific ID requirements. The TSA also accepts expired IDs up to two years after their expiration date.
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TSA requirements for children under 18
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States. However, the TSA recommends contacting the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travellers under 18.
Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction. Children aged 13-17 may access the TSA PreCheck lanes if they have a TSA PreCheck logo on their boarding pass. To be eligible for the TSA PreCheck logo, the passenger between the ages of 13 and 17 must be on the same airline reservation as a TSA PreCheck-eligible parent or guardian. If these criteria are not met, they must go through standard security screening.
Children 17 and under who are travelling alone or without a TSA PreCheck-eligible adult must apply for TSA PreCheck to have access to expedited screening. Adults using gate passes to accompany children travelling alone will be directed to standard security screening as gate passes are excluded from TSA PreCheck benefits.
It is important to note that the TSA strongly encourages travellers to check the list of acceptable IDs before travelling, as the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice. 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 should either travel with an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or enrol for a state-issued REAL ID through their state DMV offices.
Additionally, the TSA now accepts digital IDs for identity verification through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. Digital IDs are considered more secure and private than physical credentials. However, passengers must still carry an acceptable, compliant physical ID for verification.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is mandatory for all passengers to carry a physical ID for verification at the airport.
Acceptable forms of ID include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a state-issued photo identity card, a passport, or a state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL).
Yes, digital IDs are accepted at over 250 airports. Digital IDs 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 as a backup.
TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. However, it is recommended to contact the airline for specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.
