Navigating airport security can be stressful, and knowing what forms of identification are acceptable is crucial for a smooth travel experience. A common question among travelers is whether a temporary ID can be used to fly within the United States. Let’s clarify the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines on temporary IDs and acceptable forms of identification for air travel.
While a permanent, government-issued photo ID is always the best option, situations arise where you might only have a temporary ID. It’s important to understand that generally, a temporary driver’s license or temporary ID is not considered an acceptable form of identification by the TSA at airport security checkpoints. The TSA requires passengers 18 years and older to present acceptable identification to travel.
So, what are the acceptable forms of identification? According to the TSA, you can use the following documents at security checkpoints:
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Permanent resident card
- Driver’s license or state-issued ID card compliant with REAL ID requirements
- Enhanced driver’s license
- Airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)
- Tribal-issued photo ID
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian Status Card
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Immigration judge card
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
REAL ID Compliance: What You Need to Know
The REAL ID Act has established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. 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 your ID for a star in a circle or star in a gold or black star to confirm REAL ID compliance. If you are unsure, contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
Flying with an Expired ID
What if your valid ID has recently expired? The TSA has a temporary measure in place. TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date for the forms of identification listed above. Keep in mind that this policy is subject to change, and it’s always best to travel with a valid, unexpired ID.
Traveling Without Acceptable ID
Arriving at the airport without acceptable identification, whether it’s lost, stolen, or simply forgotten, doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t fly. If you don’t have acceptable ID, TSA may still allow you to fly after completing an identity verification process. This process involves answering questions to help TSA confirm your identity. If your identity is verified, you will be allowed to proceed through security, though you may be subject to additional screening.
However, if you refuse to provide identification or cooperate with the identity verification process, or if TSA cannot verify your identity, you will not be permitted to enter the security checkpoint.
To avoid potential delays and stress, TSA strongly recommends arriving at least three hours before your flight if you do not have acceptable identification.
Traveling with Children
For families traveling with children, there’s some good news. TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, it’s always wise to check with your specific airline for any ID requirements they might have for younger travelers.
Name Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
Minor discrepancies in names, specifically suffixes, are generally acceptable. TSA recognizes variations in suffixes between boarding passes and IDs. If your boarding pass includes a suffix (like Jr., Sr., III) and your ID doesn’t, or vice versa, it’s considered an acceptable variation and shouldn’t cause issues. Suffixes are not mandatory on boarding passes.
In Conclusion
While temporary IDs are generally not accepted, understanding TSA’s guidelines on acceptable identification, REAL ID, expired IDs, and procedures for traveling without ID can significantly reduce airport stress. Always aim to travel with a valid, REAL ID-compliant permanent ID. If you find yourself without acceptable identification, be prepared for additional identity verification processes and arrive at the airport with ample time. Staying informed and prepared is your best strategy for smooth and hassle-free air travel.
