Navigating airport security can be stressful, and understanding what identification is required to fly is crucial for a smooth travel experience. This guide provides you with all the essential information about acceptable forms of identification for air travel within the United States, ensuring you are well-prepared for your next flight.
REAL ID: The Standard for Domestic Flights Starting May 2025
The REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Beginning May 7, 2025, every traveler aged 18 and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification to fly within the United States. This is a key change to be aware of to avoid any travel disruptions.
To determine if your current state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant, look for a star marking in the upper portion of the card. If you are unsure, it is best to contact your state department of motor vehicles for clarification and to learn how to obtain a REAL ID if your current ID is not compliant. Planning ahead and securing a REAL ID ensures you will meet federal identification requirements for domestic air travel.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
While REAL ID is becoming the standard, there are various other forms of identification that are currently accepted at airport security checkpoints. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several types of IDs, giving you options beyond just a driver’s license. These include:
- REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards: As mentioned, these are marked with a star.
- U.S. passports: A valid U.S. passport or passport card is always an acceptable form of identification for domestic flights.
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST): These cards expedite security screening and are valid forms of ID.
- Permanent resident card (Green card): For permanent residents of the United States.
- Airline-issued ID: Under specific circumstances, airlines may issue IDs. Check with your airline for details.
- Driver’s licenses or identification cards issued by Canadian Province or Indian Tribal Nation: These are also accepted forms of ID.
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC): For transportation workers.
- U.S. military ID: For active and retired military personnel and their dependents.
- Emergency travel document: In case of emergencies, check with TSA for acceptability.
It is important to note that weapons permits and temporary driver’s licenses are not acceptable forms of identification.
Expired Identification
If your ID has recently expired, you might still be able to fly. TSA currently accepts expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date, provided they are on the list of acceptable forms of identification mentioned above. This policy offers some flexibility, but it is always recommended to travel with a valid, unexpired ID to avoid any potential issues. Keep in mind that while TSA has this policy, the REAL ID enforcement date is approaching, and it is best to renew your identification well in advance of its expiration.
Traveling with Children
Families traveling with children will find some relief in ID requirements. TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, it is always wise to confirm specific ID requirements for minors with your airline, as airline policies may vary. For international travel, passports are typically required for children of all ages.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Acceptable ID?
Arriving at the airport without your required identification can be concerning, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t fly. If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification – whether it’s lost, stolen, or simply forgotten – TSA has a process to verify your identity.
TSA officers may ask you to complete an identity verification process. This process involves collecting personal information such as your name and current address to confirm who you are. If your identity can be successfully verified, you will be allowed to proceed through the security checkpoint, although you may be subject to additional screening measures.
However, it is important to understand that if you choose not to provide acceptable identification, refuse to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. To allow ample time for potential verification procedures, TSA advises individuals without acceptable identification to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flight departure time.
Name Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
Minor discrepancies in names, specifically suffixes, are generally acceptable. TSA understands that variations in suffixes between boarding passes and identification documents can occur and are usually not an issue. Suffixes are not mandatory on boarding passes. If a suffix is present on your boarding pass but not on your ID, or vice versa, it is considered an acceptable variation and should not prevent you from flying.
Remember, if your identity cannot be verified by TSA, you will not be permitted to proceed through the security checkpoint. Always ensure you have the correct identification before heading to the airport to ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.
