Yes, a passport works as a valid ID for domestic flights

A U.S. passport book or passport card is accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) as a valid form of identification for domestic flights. You can use it at the airport security checkpoint instead of a driver's license or state ID card. The TSA does not require a passport for domestic travel — a regular state-issued ID works just as well — but if a passport is what you have, it will get you through security.

The passport must be current and not expired. TSA officers will check that the photo matches your face and that the document is genuine. A passport that expired yesterday will not pass security, even if you are only flying to another state. If your passport is within six months of expiration, you can still use it for domestic flights, but you cannot use it for international travel.

A passport card — the wallet-sized version — counts as valid ID for domestic flights just as the passport book does. Both are issued by the U.S. State Department and both contain the security features TSA looks for. The card is easier to carry, but it cannot be used for international air travel outside of land and sea borders to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.

Key Takeaways

  • A current U.S. passport book or card satisfies TSA requirements for domestic flight security screening.
  • Your passport must not be expired on the day you fly, even for flights within the United States.
  • A passport is not required for domestic flights — a state driver's license or ID card works the same way.
  • A passport card cannot be used for international flights by air, only for land and sea travel to nearby countries.
  • If your passport is lost or stolen, you will need to report it and obtain a replacement before you can use it for any travel.

What happens if your passport is expired

An expired passport will not work at the TSA checkpoint, even if you are flying domestically. TSA officers are required to reject any identification document that has passed its expiration date. You will be turned away from security and will not be able to board your flight unless you have another form of valid ID with you.

If you only have an expired passport and no other ID, you have two options: reschedule your flight, or go through TSA's secondary verification process. The secondary process takes longer and requires you to answer personal questions and provide additional documentation to prove your identity. This can add 30 minutes or more to your airport arrival time, and TSA does not may provide you will be cleared. It is far simpler to carry a current driver's license or state ID alongside your passport.

Passport versus other forms of ID at the airport

A passport works at security, but it is not the most practical choice for domestic travel. A state driver's license or ID card is faster because TSA officers see them constantly and can verify them in seconds. A passport requires the officer to examine security features that are less familiar to them, which can slow the process slightly.

For international flights, a passport is required — no other ID will work. For domestic flights, you can use any of these: a current U.S. passport, a state driver's license, a state ID card, a military ID, a tribal ID, a permanent resident card, or a U.S. passport card. If you are traveling domestically and have a choice, a driver's license is the fastest option. If you are traveling internationally, bring your passport and nothing else will substitute for it.

Renewing an expired passport before you fly

If your passport expired and you need to fly soon, you have two paths: routine renewal or expedited renewal. Routine renewal takes four to six weeks. Expedited renewal takes two to three weeks and costs an extra fee — currently $60 on top of the standard renewal cost, though this amount changes periodically. Both require you to mail in your expired passport, a new photo, and the completed process form.

If you need to fly within two weeks, routine and expedited renewal will not work in time. Your only option is to explore for an emergency passport at a passport acceptance facility or passport agency in person. Some agencies can issue an emergency passport the same day or within one business day, but you must have proof of imminent travel — a flight confirmation or ticket. Call your nearest passport agency before you go, because not all locations offer same-day service.

Using a passport card for domestic flights

A passport card is smaller and easier to carry than a passport book, and it works just as well for TSA security on domestic flights. The card contains the same security features and is issued by the State Department. If you already have a passport card, you do not need to get a passport book just to fly domestically.

The limitation is international air travel. A passport card cannot be used to fly to any country outside the United States, even Canada or Mexico. It can only be used for land or sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean nations. If you plan to fly internationally at any point, you will need a passport book, not a card.

What to bring to the airport if you are using a passport

Bring your passport and nothing else is required by TSA for the security checkpoint. However, you will also need your airline boarding pass, which you can print at home or show on your phone. Have both ready when you approach the security line.

If your passport is damaged, torn, or has water damage, TSA may reject it even if it is not expired. The photo page must be readable and the document must be structurally sound. If you are unsure whether your passport is in good enough condition, bring a backup ID — a driver's license or state ID — just in case. It takes only a moment to show both, and it prevents delays if the officer decides your passport is too damaged to accept.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired passport to fly domestically if I have no other ID?

No. TSA will not accept an expired passport at security, even for domestic flights. You can attempt TSA's secondary verification process, which uses personal questions and additional documents to confirm your identity, but this is not may provide to work and takes much longer. Your best option is to bring a current driver's license or state ID instead.

Do I need a passport to fly within the United States?

No. A passport is accepted, but it is not required. A state driver's license, state ID card, military ID, or tribal ID all work for domestic flights. A passport is only required for international air travel.

Can I use a passport card to fly to Canada or Mexico?

A passport card cannot be used for air travel to any country, including Canada and Mexico. It can only be used for land or sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and certain Caribbean islands. For flights to those countries, you must have a passport book.

What if my passport is damaged but not expired?

TSA may reject a damaged passport even if it is current. The photo page must be readable and the document must be in good condition. Bring a backup form of ID — a driver's license or state ID — to be safe. If TSA rejects your passport, you can use the backup ID instead.

How long does it take to get a new passport if mine is expired?

Routine renewal takes four to six weeks. Expedited renewal takes two to three weeks for an extra fee. If you need a passport within days, you can explore for an emergency passport in person at a passport agency, which may be issued the same day, but you must have proof of imminent travel and not all agencies offer same-day service.