Navigating airport security can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure about identification requirements. If you’re flying within the United States, one of the most common questions is: do you need a passport to fly in the US? The answer isn’t always straightforward, and understanding the rules can save you time and hassle at the airport. This guide will clarify what identification is required for domestic flights and what alternatives you have.
REAL ID and Domestic Air Travel
The REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards accepted by federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). 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.
If you are not sure if your current state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles. Look for a star marking on your physical ID, which indicates it meets REAL ID requirements.
Acceptable Forms of Identification for TSA
While a REAL ID compliant driver’s license will be mandatory soon, you have several options for acceptable identification at TSA checkpoints. A valid U.S. passport is indeed an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights. In fact, passports are universally accepted and offer a reliable option for air travel within the US.
Here is a list of other IDs that are currently acceptable:
- Valid U.S. Passport
- REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses and other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- 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®)
- Immigration and Naturalization Service Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766)
Keep in mind that weapons permits and temporary driver’s licenses are not acceptable forms of identification.
What if My ID is Expired?
TSA recognizes that IDs can expire, and currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year after the expiration date listed on the ID. This applies to all forms of acceptable identification mentioned above, including driver’s licenses and passports. However, it’s always best to travel with a valid, unexpired ID to avoid any potential issues. Remember that the REAL ID enforcement deadline is May 7, 2025.
Identification for Children
Traveling with children? TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, airlines may have specific requirements for minors, especially those traveling alone or with adults who are not their parents or legal guardians. It is always recommended to check with your specific airline regarding ID requirements for travelers under 18.
Flying Without Acceptable Identification
Life happens, and sometimes you might arrive at the airport without your required ID – it could be lost, stolen, or simply forgotten. In such cases, you may still be able to fly.
If you find yourself without acceptable identification, inform a TSA officer. They may allow you to proceed through security after completing an identity verification process. This process might involve answering questions to confirm your identity. If your identity is verified, you will be allowed to enter the security checkpoint but may be subject to additional screening.
However, if you refuse to provide identification or cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to pass through security.
TSA advises travelers without acceptable identification to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flight to allow ample time for the verification process.
Name Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
Don’t worry if the name suffix on your boarding pass doesn’t exactly match your ID. TSA understands that variations can occur. Suffixes are not mandatory on boarding passes. If there’s a suffix on your boarding pass but not on your ID, or vice versa, it’s considered an acceptable variation and shouldn’t cause any problems.
Conclusion
So, do you need a passport to fly in the US? Not necessarily for domestic flights, but it is certainly accepted and a reliable option. While a passport works, a REAL ID compliant driver’s license (starting May 7, 2025) or one of the other TSA-approved IDs will also get you through security for domestic travel. Understanding these requirements ensures a smoother and less stressful airport experience. Always double-check you have acceptable identification before heading to the airport, and if you are unsure, a valid U.S. passport is always a safe bet for domestic flights.
