What ID You Need for Domestic Flights in the United States

Domestic flights do not require a passport

A passport is not required for domestic flights within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a driver's license or state ID card as proof of identity for passengers flying between U.S. states and territories. If you do not have a driver's license, other forms of government-issued photo ID will work — including a passport, but you do not need one specifically for this purpose.

The rule applies to all domestic flights, regardless of distance. A flight from New York to California requires the same ID as a flight from Boston to Providence. The TSA checks your identity at the security checkpoint before you board, and a valid driver's license or state ID satisfies that requirement completely.

Key Takeaways

A driver's license or state ID card is sufficient for all domestic U.S. flights; a passport is not required.
The TSA accepts any government-issued photo ID, including military ID, tribal ID, or a passport if you have one.
Real ID-compliant licenses (marked with a star or marking on the card) are required starting May 7, 2025, for domestic flights at major airports.
If you do not have a photo ID, you can still board a domestic flight by arriving early and completing additional TSA screening.
A passport becomes necessary only when flying to another country, not for travel within the United States.

What the TSA accepts at the security checkpoint

The TSA maintains a list of acceptable forms of ID for domestic flights. A driver's license from any U.S. state or territory is the most common choice. State ID cards (non-driver identification cards issued by your state's motor vehicle department) work equally well. Military ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, and a U.S. passport all satisfy the requirement.

Less common but valid options include a permanent resident card (green card), a U.S. merchant mariner document, or a retired military ID. The key requirement is that the ID must be government-issued and include a photograph of you. An expired ID is still acceptable as long as it is not more than five years past expiration — the TSA does not require a current ID, only one that shows your face clearly enough to match you at the checkpoint.

Real ID requirements starting May 2025

Beginning May 7, 2025, the TSA will require a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID for domestic flights at airports that enforce the rule. A Real ID-compliant license has a star or other marking on the front or back of the card, depending on your state. If your current license does not have this marking, you will need to renew it at your state's motor vehicle department before that date.

The process for getting a Real ID-compliant license varies by state. Most states require you to visit a motor vehicle office in person with proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease). Some states allow you to renew online if your current license is not expired, but the Real ID upgrade typically requires an in-person visit. Check your state's motor vehicle website for the specific documents you need and whether appointments are required.

If you do not have a Real ID-compliant license by May 7, 2025, you can still fly domestically by using a passport, military ID, or other acceptable federal ID. The Real ID requirement applies only to state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards.

Flying without a photo ID

If you arrive at the airport without any photo ID, you can still board a domestic flight, but the process takes longer. You must arrive at the airport earlier than usual — the TSA recommends at least two hours before departure — and inform the TSA officer at the checkpoint that you do not have ID. The officer will ask you questions to verify your identity, such as your name, date of birth, and address.

The TSA may ask you to provide additional information or documentation, such as a credit card with your name on it or a printed boarding pass. The secondary screening process can add 15 to 30 minutes to your checkpoint time, depending on how busy the airport is. This option is available but inconvenient; obtaining a state ID card is faster and more reliable if you fly regularly.

Passports and international travel

A passport is required only when flying to another country or to U.S. territories that require it. Most Caribbean islands, Mexico, and Canada require a passport for entry. Some U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, do not require a passport for U.S. citizens — a driver's license is sufficient — but other territories do. Check the entry requirements for your specific destination before you book.

If you are planning to travel internationally, a passport takes four to six weeks to obtain through the State Department if you explore in person at a passport acceptance facility. Expedited processing takes two to three weeks but costs extra. If you already have a passport, you can use it for domestic flights as well, though it is not necessary.

State ID cards if you do not drive

If you do not have a driver's license, you can obtain a state ID card from your state's motor vehicle department. A state ID card serves the same purpose as a driver's license for TSA purposes and costs less — typically between $10 and $30, depending on your state. The process process is similar to renewing a driver's license: you visit a motor vehicle office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.

Some states allow you to explore for a state ID card online or by mail if you already have an ID that is not expired, but first-time applicants usually must visit in person. The card is typically issued on the spot or mailed to you within one to two weeks. Having a state ID card is useful not only for flying but also for opening a bank account, entering federal buildings, and other situations where photo ID is required.

What happens if your ID is lost or stolen before your flight

If your ID is lost or stolen and your flight is soon, you have two options. First, you can go to the airport without ID and complete the secondary screening process described above — this works but requires arriving very early. Second, you can visit your state's motor vehicle department and request an emergency replacement ID. Some states issue replacement IDs on the same day if you visit in person and bring proof of your identity and residency.

Call your state's motor vehicle department before you go to confirm whether same-day replacement is available and what documents you need to bring. If same-day replacement is not possible, plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours early and inform the TSA officer that you do not have ID. Bring any documentation you have — a credit card, a printed boarding pass, or a recent utility bill — to help verify your identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired driver's license for a domestic flight?

Yes, as long as it expired within the last five years. The TSA accepts expired ID as long as the photograph is still recognizable and matches you. If your license expired more than five years ago, you will need to renew it or use another form of ID.

Do I need a passport to fly from one U.S. state to another?

No. A driver's license or state ID card is sufficient for all domestic flights. A passport is only required when flying to another country or to certain U.S. territories that have their own entry rules.

What if I have a passport but no driver's license?

A passport is acceptable ID for domestic flights. You do not need a driver's license if you have a valid passport. However, if you do not drive, a state ID card is cheaper and easier to renew than a passport.

Will my old driver's license work after May 7, 2025?

Only if it is Real ID-compliant (marked with a star or other designation). If your current license does not have the Real ID marking, you will need to renew it at your state's motor vehicle department before that date, or use a passport or military ID instead.

How long does it take to get a Real ID-compliant license?

Most states issue Real ID-compliant licenses on the spot or within one to two weeks of your visit to the motor vehicle office. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Check your state's motor vehicle website for exact timelines and whether appointments are required.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.