Navigating airport security can be stressful, and knowing exactly what identification you need is crucial for a smooth journey. If you’re wondering “When Do You Need A Passport To Fly,” especially within the United States, you’re in the right place. This guide will clarify when a passport is necessary and when other forms of ID might suffice, ensuring you’re prepared for your next flight.
Do You Need a Passport for Domestic Flights Within the U.S.?
For flights within the United States, the most common question is whether a passport is mandatory. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) mandates that adults (18 and over) must present acceptable identification at airport security checkpoints to fly. However, a passport is not always the only acceptable form of ID for domestic flights.
As of Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. A U.S. passport or a U.S. passport card are both REAL ID compliant and are always accepted for domestic flights.
An image depicting a person presenting their identification to a TSA officer at an airport security checkpoint.
Therefore, while a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID will suffice for domestic flights after May 7, 2025, a passport is definitely a universally accepted form of identification for flying domestically. If you already have a valid U.S. passport, you can confidently use it for any domestic flight.
When is a Passport Always Required?
While not always mandatory for domestic U.S. travel, a passport is absolutely essential in several scenarios:
- International Flights: Without exception, if you are flying to a foreign country, you will need a valid passport. This is an international requirement for entry and exit to most countries. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the country you are visiting, as many countries have this requirement.
- Flying to U.S. Territories: While considered domestic flights, travel to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands from the U.S. mainland does not require a U.S. passport for U.S. citizens. However, it is always recommended to carry a passport when traveling, even to these destinations, as it simplifies identification and can be useful in unforeseen circumstances. For example, flying to Puerto Rico is considered domestic travel, but having a passport can still be beneficial.
Other Acceptable Forms of ID for Domestic Flights
Besides a REAL ID and passports, TSA accepts several other forms of identification for domestic flights:
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, SENTRI, NEXUS)
- Permanent resident card
- Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation worker identification credential (TWIC®)
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
While these are acceptable, a passport or REAL ID simplifies the process universally across all airports and is less likely to cause any confusion.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Acceptable ID?
It’s possible to arrive at the airport without acceptable identification due to loss, theft, or simply forgetting it. In such cases, you may still be allowed to fly, but be prepared for additional steps.
A view of a typical TSA security checkpoint at an airport, showing passengers and TSA officers.
TSA officers may conduct an identity verification process. This might involve asking for personal information to confirm your identity. If your identity is verified, you will be permitted to proceed through security, though you may be subject to additional screening.
However, if you choose not to provide identification or cannot verify your identity, you will not be allowed to pass through the security checkpoint. TSA advises travelers without acceptable ID to arrive at least three hours before their flight to allow ample time for this verification process.
Identification for Children
For children under 18 traveling domestically within the United States, TSA does not require them to provide identification. However, airlines may have their own specific requirements for travelers under 18, so it’s always wise to check directly with your airline before flying, especially for unaccompanied minors.
Expired IDs
If your ID has recently expired, TSA offers some leniency. They currently accept expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date for the forms of identification listed above. Keep in mind that this policy could change, and it’s always best to travel with a valid, unexpired ID. Remember that the REAL ID enforcement deadline is May 7, 2025.
Names and Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
TSA understands that names and suffixes can sometimes vary slightly between IDs and boarding passes. Variations in suffixes are acceptable. For example, if your boarding pass includes a suffix (like Jr. or III) but your ID does not, or vice versa, it’s considered an acceptable variation and shouldn’t cause issues.
In Summary: Passport or REAL ID for Domestic, Passport for International
To simplify, for domestic flights within the U.S., a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport will work. For international flights, a valid passport is always required. Having a passport provides the most flexibility and is universally accepted for air travel. When in doubt, bringing your passport is always the safest option to ensure smooth travels.
