Navigating airport security can be stressful, and travel documents are a key concern. A common question among travelers is, “Can you fly with an expired ID?” It’s crucial to understand the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) policies regarding identification to ensure smooth passage through airport security. This guide provides clear information on using expired IDs for air travel within the United States, helping you prepare for your next flight.
TSA’s Policy on Expired IDs
The TSA does offer some flexibility regarding expired identification. Currently, TSA accepts expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date. This policy applies to various forms of acceptable identification, including driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs. This temporary allowance can be helpful if your ID renewal is delayed or if you are traveling shortly after your ID expires.
It’s important to note that while TSA currently accepts IDs expired for less than a year, this is a policy that could change. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official TSA website before your travel date.
REAL ID and the Upcoming Enforcement Deadline
The REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards accepted by federal agencies for certain purposes, including air travel. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has set May 7, 2025, as the enforcement deadline for REAL ID.
Learn more about REAL ID on TSA’s REAL ID webpage.
After this date, to fly domestically within the U.S., you will generally need to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification. While expired IDs are currently accepted under certain conditions, it is always best practice to travel with a valid, unexpired REAL ID to avoid any potential issues, especially as the enforcement deadline approaches. Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you are unsure whether your ID is REAL ID compliant.
Flying Without Acceptable Identification
What happens if you arrive at the airport and realize you don’t have acceptable identification, or your ID is expired beyond the TSA’s grace period? Fortunately, you may still be able to fly.
TSA has a process to verify your identity if you do not have acceptable identification. A TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process. This involves providing information such as your name and current address to help confirm who you are. If your identity can be verified, you will be allowed to proceed through security, although you may be subject to additional screening.
However, be aware that if you choose not to provide identification, refuse to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be permitted to enter the security checkpoint.
TSA strongly recommends arriving at least three hours before your scheduled flight time if you anticipate needing to go through identity verification due to missing or expired identification. This extra time allows for the verification process and any additional screening that may be required.
Identification for Children
For families traveling with children, TSA has different rules for minors. Children under 18 years old are not required to provide identification when traveling domestically within the United States. However, it is always a good idea to check with your specific airline, as they may have their own identification requirements for younger travelers.
Name Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
Minor discrepancies between the name on your boarding pass and your ID are generally acceptable. Specifically, TSA recognizes that suffixes (like Jr., Sr., III) may vary or be absent between your boarding pass and your identification. Suffixes are not mandatory on boarding passes. Whether a suffix is present on one document but not the other, it is considered an acceptable variation and should not cause issues at security.
In conclusion, while TSA currently allows flying with an ID expired for less than a year, it is always best to travel with a valid, unexpired REAL ID, especially with the May 7, 2025, enforcement date approaching. If you find yourself without acceptable ID, TSA has a verification process, but allow extra time and be prepared to cooperate with security officers.
