Navigating airport security can be stressful, and knowing what forms of identification are acceptable is crucial. If you’re wondering whether you can fly using a paper ID, especially a temporary one, it’s essential to understand the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines. This article clarifies the rules around paper IDs and acceptable identification for air travel within the United States, ensuring you’re prepared for your next flight.
Paper IDs and Airport Security: What to Know
The question “can you fly with a paper ID?” often arises when individuals have recently renewed their driver’s license or other forms of identification and have only received a temporary paper document. It’s important to note that a weapon permit and a temporary driver’s license are explicitly stated by TSA as not acceptable forms of identification. This raises the question: are any paper IDs acceptable?
While the TSA prefers official, government-issued photo IDs, they understand that situations arise where travelers may not possess these documents. The key is to understand what constitutes an acceptable form of identification and what alternatives are available if you only have a paper ID.
Acceptable Forms of Identification for Flying
For adults 18 and over, the TSA requires passengers to present acceptable identification at the security checkpoint to fly. These typically include:
- REAL ID Compliant Documents: 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. Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles if you are unsure if your current ID is REAL ID compliant.
- U.S. Passport: A valid U.S. passport is always an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights.
- Permanent Resident Card: For non-U.S. citizens, a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) is acceptable.
- Other TSA Acceptable IDs: This includes various forms of photo IDs issued by federal or state governments, such as driver’s licenses, identification cards, military IDs, and more. For a comprehensive list, refer to the official TSA website.
It’s important to remember that paper IDs, especially temporary driver’s licenses, are generally not considered acceptable primary forms of identification. The TSA aims to verify identity with secure, government-issued documents that are difficult to forge or alter. Paper documents often lack these security features.
What If You Only Have a Paper ID?
If you arrive at the airport with only a paper ID, or without acceptable identification altogether due to loss or theft, you may still be able to fly. The TSA has a process to verify your identity.
Identity Verification Process:
- Inform the TSA Officer: Let the TSA officer know that you do not have an acceptable form of ID.
- Identity Verification: You may be asked to complete an identity verification process. This involves providing personal information such as your name and current address to help confirm your identity.
- Additional Screening: If your identity is verified, you will be allowed to proceed through the security checkpoint but may be subject to additional screening.
Important Considerations:
- Cooperation is Key: To successfully navigate this process, it’s crucial to cooperate with TSA officers and honestly provide the requested information.
- Possible Denial: If you choose not to participate in the identity verification process, if your identity cannot be confirmed, or if you cannot provide any form of credible identification, you will not be allowed to pass through security.
- Arrive Early: TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least three hours before their scheduled flight time to allow ample time for the verification process and potential additional screening.
Expired IDs and Children
- Expired IDs: The TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date, for the forms of identification listed as generally acceptable.
- Children Under 18: TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, it’s always wise to check with your specific airline for their ID requirements for younger travelers.
Conclusion
While the TSA prefers and recommends traveling with a REAL ID-compliant document or other acceptable photo ID, flying with only a paper ID can be challenging. While a paper ID like a temporary driver’s license is not a preferred or standard acceptable ID, the TSA has procedures in place to verify identity through alternative means if necessary. The best approach is to ensure you have a valid, acceptable photo ID before traveling. If you find yourself without one, especially with just a paper ID, be prepared for additional screening and arrive at the airport with plenty of extra time. Understanding these guidelines will help ensure a smoother and less stressful airport experience.
