Navigating airport security can often feel stressful, and understanding what identification is required is a key part of smooth travel. If you’re planning to fly within the United States, you might be wondering, “Do I need a passport?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, and depends on a few factors. Let’s clarify the ID requirements for domestic flights within the U.S.
REAL ID and Domestic Flights
For many years, a standard driver’s license has been sufficient for domestic air travel within the United States. However, the REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards accepted by federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to fly within the United States. If you are unsure whether your current state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant, it’s important to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. REAL ID compliant cards are typically marked with a star in the upper portion of the card.
Learn more about REAL ID.
Can You Fly with an Expired ID?
Life happens, and sometimes IDs expire when we least expect it. If your driver’s license or state-issued ID has recently expired, you might still be able to use it at the TSA checkpoint. TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date, provided that it is one of the acceptable forms of identification. This policy offers some flexibility, but it’s always best to travel with a valid, unexpired ID to avoid any potential issues. Keep in mind that this acceptance of expired IDs is subject to change, so it’s always best to check the latest TSA guidelines before your travel date.
The Department of Homeland Security has extended the REAL ID enforcement deadline to May 7, 2025. You can find more detailed information about REAL ID on the TSA’s REAL ID webpage.
Identification for Children
Traveling with children? The good news is that TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when flying domestically. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm specific ID requirements for minors with your airline, as airline policies can vary. While TSA might not require it, the airline might have their own rules, particularly for international travel or when verifying ages for ticketing purposes.
Flying Without Acceptable Identification
Arriving at the airport and realizing you’ve lost your ID or it’s been stolen can be incredibly stressful. However, even if you don’t have an acceptable form of identification, you may still be permitted to fly.
If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, TSA officers may allow you to go through an identity verification process. This process might involve answering questions to verify your personal information, such as your name and current address. If your identity can be confirmed, you will be allowed to proceed through the security checkpoint, although you may be subject to additional screening measures.
However, it’s crucial to understand that you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you refuse to provide identification, decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be verified. To allow for potential delays with this process, TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flight departure time.
Name Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
Do you have a suffix in your name, like Jr., Sr., or III? TSA understands that variations can occur with suffixes on boarding passes and identification documents. Suffixes are not mandatory on boarding passes. If your boarding pass includes a suffix and your ID does not, or vice versa, TSA considers this an acceptable variation and it should not cause any issues during the security screening process. The key is that the core name information matches.
In summary, while a passport is not required for U.S. domestic flights for adults, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other acceptable form of identification will be mandatory starting May 7, 2025. It’s always best to be prepared with the correct identification to ensure a smooth and stress-free airport experience. If you have any doubts, checking the TSA website for the most up-to-date guidelines is always recommended before you travel.
