Flying can be a stressful experience, and one of the most common questions travelers have is about identification requirements. Do you absolutely need an ID to fly within the United States? This article will clarify the rules and regulations surrounding acceptable identification for air travel.
What ID Do You Need to Fly in the US?
As of now, adults aged 18 and over are required to show acceptable identification at TSA checkpoints before boarding a flight within the United States. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or state-issued identification cards (Starting May 7, 2025, this will be mandatory).
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. military ID (active duty or retired military and their dependents, and DoD civilians)
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing 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®)
Flying Without an ID: Is it Possible?
While having proper identification is strongly recommended, it is possible to fly even if you’ve lost or forgotten your ID. In these situations, TSA officers may initiate an identity verification process. This involves providing personal information like your full name, current address, and other details to confirm your identity. If your identity can be verified, you will be allowed to proceed through security, but you may be subjected to additional screening measures. However, if your identity cannot be confirmed, you will be denied entry to the security checkpoint. To avoid potential delays and missed flights, TSA advises arriving at the airport at least three hours prior to your scheduled departure if you lack acceptable identification.
Flying With an Expired ID
Currently, the TSA accepts expired IDs for up to one year after the expiration date for the forms of identification listed above. However, this policy is subject to change. The enforcement of the REAL ID Act, requiring all travelers to present REAL ID-compliant identification, has been extended to May 7, 2025.
IDs for Children Under 18
Children under the age of 18 are not required by the TSA to present identification when traveling domestically within the United States. However, it’s always a good idea to have some form of identification for your child, such as a birth certificate or school ID, especially if they are traveling alone or with only one parent. For specific ID requirements for minors, it’s best to contact the airline directly, as their policies may vary.
Name Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
Minor variations in name suffixes (e.g., Jr., Sr., III) between your ID and boarding pass are generally acceptable. Suffixes are not mandatory on boarding passes. Whether your ID includes a suffix or your boarding pass does, or vice versa, will not prevent you from flying.
Key Takeaways: Do You Need ID to Fly?
To summarize, while possessing a valid, acceptable form of identification is crucial for smooth and efficient air travel, there are procedures in place for those who arrive at the airport without one. However, these procedures can be time-consuming and may result in missed flights. Planning ahead and ensuring you have proper identification is the best way to ensure a stress-free travel experience. Remember to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date information on acceptable forms of ID and REAL ID compliance.
