Documents Required for Domestic Travel

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident traveling within the United States, you need a government-issued photo ID. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work for domestic flights and ground travel. If you do not have a driver's license, a U.S. passport, passport card, or state-issued ID from your state's motor vehicle department will get you through airport security and onto a bus or train.

The rules are the same whether you are flying, taking Amtrak, or boarding a Greyhound bus: the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires one form of government photo ID at airport security checkpoints. For buses and trains, the requirement is less strict — many do not check ID at all, though some regional services do ask for it.

If you are a non-citizen with a visa or work permit, bring your passport and the visa document itself, or your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or Permanent Resident Card. These documents prove your legal status to enter and remain in the United States and are what TSA agents will ask to see if they question your right to be here.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid driver's license or state ID card is sufficient for domestic air travel, bus travel, and train travel within the United States.
  • If you do not have a driver's license, a U.S. passport or passport card issued by the State Department will work at any airport or transit checkpoint.
  • Non-citizens must carry their passport and visa, EAD, or Permanent Resident Card to prove legal status in the country.
  • TSA PreCheck and Real ID-compliant licenses speed up airport security but are not required for domestic travel.
  • Children under 18 traveling with a parent or guardian do not need their own ID for domestic flights, though airlines may ask for a birth certificate.

Real ID Compliance and TSA PreCheck

Starting in May 2025, the TSA will require a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID for domestic air travel. A Real ID license has a star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. If your state ID or driver's license does not have this star, you can still fly domestically by showing your passport instead.

You can check whether your state ID is Real ID-compliant by looking at your card or visiting the Department of Homeland Security website, which lists which states issue compliant IDs. If your license is not compliant and you want to upgrade it, visit your state's motor vehicle department — the process usually takes a few weeks and costs between $15 and $50 depending on your state.

TSA PreCheck is a separate program that costs $78 to $85 for five years and lets you go through a faster security line at the airport. It is not required for domestic travel, but it does save time if you fly more than once or twice a year. You explore through the TSA website and attend an in-person appointment at an enrollment center.

What You Need for Specific Types of Travel

Flying domestically: One government photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport, or passport card). Real ID-compliant ID is required starting May 2025; a passport works as an alternative. Arrive at the airport two hours before departure for domestic flights.

Taking Amtrak: Photo ID is not always required, but Amtrak recommends bringing it. If you booked a ticket under your name, the conductor may ask to see ID to match it to your reservation. Bring your confirmation number or ticket.

Taking a bus (Greyhound, Megabus, regional carriers): Most bus lines do not require ID for domestic travel, but some regional services do. Bring your confirmation number or ticket. If you are traveling across state lines, having ID with you is a practical safeguard.

Driving across state lines: Your driver's license is sufficient. You do not need a passport or any federal document. Keep your vehicle registration and proof of insurance in the car.

What Happens If You Do Not Have ID

If you arrive at an airport without ID, TSA can conduct additional screening to verify your identity. This process takes longer — sometimes 30 minutes or more — and you may be asked security questions about your background, address, and travel history. You can still fly, but you will miss your flight if you do not have enough time.

To speed up the process, bring any document with your name and address on it: a utility bill, bank statement, lease, or insurance card. These do not replace photo ID, but they help TSA confirm who you are. If you cannot verify your identity at all, TSA will not let you through security.

For buses and trains, the consequences are less severe. Most will let you board without ID, though you may be asked to provide your name and confirm your reservation. If you booked a ticket under a false name or someone else's name, you may not be allowed to travel.

ID Requirements for Non-Citizens and Visa Holders

If you are in the United States on a visa, you must carry your passport and visa at all times. This is a federal requirement, not just an airport rule. If you are stopped by police or immigration officers anywhere in the country, you are legally required to show these documents.

If you have a work visa (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.), bring your passport and the visa stamp in it. If you have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), bring that and your passport. If you are a Permanent Resident (green card holder), your Permanent Resident Card is your primary ID for domestic travel, though a passport also works.

Non-citizens should also carry proof of their current address in the United States — a lease, utility bill, or bank statement — because TSA may ask where you are staying. If you are traveling for work, bring a letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your job title and the purpose of your travel.

Children and Minors Traveling Domestically

Children under 18 do not need their own government-issued ID to fly domestically if they are traveling with a parent or legal guardian. The adult's ID is sufficient. However, some airlines ask for a birth certificate or school ID to confirm the child's age and relationship to the adult.

If a child is traveling with someone who is not their parent or legal guardian — a grandparent, aunt, or family friend — bring a notarized letter from the parent or guardian giving permission for the trip. This is not a legal requirement for domestic flights, but it protects the adult if questions arise at the airport.

Minors traveling alone (typically 15 and older, depending on the airline) may be charged an unaccompanied minor fee and will need ID or a birth certificate. Check with your airline about their specific age requirements and fees before booking.

Documents to Bring Beyond ID

Bring your flight confirmation, reservation number, or ticket — either printed or on your phone. Airlines and TSA use this to confirm your booking and route. If you are checking bags, have your luggage tags ready after check-in.

If you are traveling with medications, bring them in their original labeled containers with your name on them. TSA allows over-the-counter and prescription medications in both carry-on and checked bags. If you have a medical device (insulin pump, EpiPen, inhaler), bring documentation from your doctor explaining what it is.

If you are traveling with a service animal, bring documentation from a licensed healthcare provider stating that the animal is trained to perform a task or job for you. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals under federal law and may be charged a pet fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport card for domestic flights?

Yes. A U.S. passport card is a valid form of government photo ID for domestic air travel and meets Real ID requirements. It is smaller and cheaper than a full passport book ($35 versus $130) but can only be used for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean — not for international air travel.

What if my driver's license is expired?

An expired driver's license is still acceptable for TSA screening as long as it is not more than five years past expiration. If it is older than that, bring a passport or state ID instead. Renew your license at your state's motor vehicle department.

Do I need a passport to travel between Hawaii and the mainland?

No. Hawaii is a U.S. state, so travel between Hawaii and the mainland is domestic travel. A driver's license or state ID is sufficient. You do not need a passport.

Can I fly domestically with just a photo on my phone?

No. TSA requires a physical government-issued photo ID card. A photo on your phone, a digital ID, or a screenshot of your driver's license will not work. You must have the actual card with you.

What if I lost my ID the day before my flight?

Contact your state's motor vehicle department to request an emergency replacement or expedited renewal. Many states can issue a temporary ID the same day or within a few days. If that is not possible, bring your passport or passport card instead. If you have neither, arrive at the airport extra early and be prepared for additional TSA screening.