Navigating airport security can be a breeze if you’re well-prepared, and understanding the identification requirements is a crucial part of that. If you’re wondering “What Do I Need For Id To Fly?”, you’re in the right place. This guide will clarify everything you need to know about acceptable forms of identification for domestic flights within the United States, ensuring a smooth journey through TSA checkpoints.
REAL ID Compliance: Are You Ready for May 2025?
The REAL ID Act is setting a higher security standard for identification. 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’re unsure whether your current state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant, it’s essential to check with your state department of motor vehicles or the issuing agency. Look for a star symbol on your license or ID card, which indicates REAL ID compliance. Planning ahead and ensuring you have a REAL ID well before the deadline will save you potential stress and delays at the airport.
Acceptable Forms of Identification for Air Travel
While a REAL ID will be mandatory from May 2025, it’s important to know the currently accepted forms of identification. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a variety of documents. These typically include:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent).
- U.S. Passports
- U.S. Passport Cards
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Permanent resident card (Green card)
- Military IDs
- Enhanced Driver’s Licenses
- Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passports
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
Note: Weapon permits and temporary driver’s licenses are not acceptable forms of identification.
What About Expired IDs? TSA Policy on Expired Identification
Life happens, and IDs can expire. The TSA understands this and currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date. This policy applies to the forms of identification listed above. However, with the REAL ID deadline approaching, it is always best practice to travel with a valid, unexpired ID to avoid any potential issues. Keep in mind that this policy is subject to change, so it’s always wise to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date information before your travel date.
Identification for Children: Flying with Passengers Under 18
Traveling with children? Good news: TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm specific requirements with your airline, as they may have their own policies for verifying the age of young travelers.
Arriving at the Airport Without Acceptable ID: What Are Your Options?
Accidentally left your ID at home? Lost your wallet? Don’t panic. Even if you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be able to fly. TSA officers have a process to verify your identity. This typically involves an identity verification process where you’ll be asked to provide information like your name and current address. If your identity can be confirmed through these methods, you will be allowed to proceed through security, though you may be subject to additional screening.
However, it’s important to note that you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint if you refuse to provide identification, decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed. To allow ample time for this process, TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least three hours before their scheduled flight departure time.
Name Suffixes: Variations on IDs and Boarding Passes
Minor discrepancies in names can sometimes cause concern, but TSA has clear guidelines for name suffixes. TSA accepts variations in suffixes on boarding passes and IDs. Suffixes on boarding passes are not mandatory. If your boarding pass includes a suffix and your ID doesn’t, or vice versa, it is considered an acceptable variation and should not cause any issues at the security checkpoint.
Knowing what identification is required for air travel is key to a stress-free airport experience. Make sure to check your ID’s REAL ID compliance and expiration date well in advance of your trip. And remember, when in doubt, arriving early and being prepared to cooperate with TSA officers are always your best strategies.
