You do not need a passport to fly domestically in the United States

A passport is not required for flights between U.S. cities. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several forms of identification at airport security checkpoints, and a passport is just one option—not the standard one. Most domestic travelers use a driver's license or state ID card instead.

What matters is that your ID is current and issued by a U.S. state, territory, or the federal government. If your driver's license or state ID expired, TSA will not accept it. If you do not have either of those, you have other options that work just as well.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid driver's license or state ID card is the most common form of identification TSA accepts at domestic airport security.
  • A passport works for domestic flights but is not necessary and takes longer to obtain than a state ID.
  • If you have no photo ID, TSA allows a secondary verification process using documents like a birth certificate and Social Security card, though it takes extra time.
  • Your ID must not be expired; TSA will reject expired licenses even if they are still in your wallet.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses (marked with a gold star or similar indicator) are required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025, though standard licenses still work until then.

What forms of ID TSA accepts at security

TSA maintains a list of acceptable identification documents for domestic air travel. A valid driver's license from any U.S. state is the fastest and most straightforward choice. A state ID card (issued by your state's DMV even if you do not drive) works identically. Both must be unexpired and include a photograph.

Other documents TSA accepts include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. A U.S. passport book or card will work, but obtaining one takes four to six weeks through the State Department, whereas a state ID typically takes one to two weeks depending on your state's processing time.

If you are a federal employee, your federal employee ID card is acceptable. If you are retired military, your military dependent ID works. The point is that TSA has a broad list—you do not need to rush to get a passport when you likely already have something that works.

What happens if you have no photo ID

If you arrive at the airport without any of the documents above, TSA has a secondary process called Reasonable Suspicion Document verification. You will need to provide two documents that together establish your identity: typically a birth certificate and Social Security card, or a birth certificate and a utility bill in your name.

This process is slower. TSA will conduct additional screening, and you should plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual—at least two hours before a domestic flight instead of the standard one hour. The screening is thorough but does not prevent you from flying; it just takes longer.

If you are traveling soon and have no photo ID, your fastest option is to get a state ID card from your local DMV, not a passport. Many states offer expedited processing for a small fee, and you can often walk in without an appointment.

Real ID requirements starting May 2025

Beginning May 7, 2025, TSA will require all domestic air travelers to present either a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, or an alternative document like a passport or military ID. Real ID is a federal security standard; compliant licenses are marked with a gold star, gold circle, or similar indicator in the upper right corner.

If your state-issued driver's license or ID card does not have this marking, it will no longer be accepted at airport security after May 7, 2025. You will need to renew it to get a Real ID-compliant version, or bring a passport instead.

Most states have already issued Real ID-compliant licenses to new applicants and renewals, so if you have renewed your license in the past few years, you likely already have one. Check your license for the star or indicator. If you do not see it, contact your state's DMV to renew before May 7, 2025.

How to get a state ID if you do not have one

Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and look for the section on state ID cards. You will need to bring documents that prove your identity, date of birth, and residency—typically a birth certificate, Social Security card, and a utility bill or lease agreement. Requirements vary slightly by state.

Most states allow you to explore in person at a DMV office. Some states now offer online pre-process, which can speed up the in-person visit. Processing time ranges from same-day (in some states) to two weeks, depending on your state and whether you pay for expedited service.

The cost is usually between $20 and $50. If you are flying soon and do not have a photo ID, this is faster and cheaper than getting a passport, and it works for all domestic flights.

Traveling with an expired ID

TSA will not accept an expired driver's license or state ID, even if it expired recently. The ID must be valid on the day you fly. If your license expired, you cannot use it at security—you will need to bring a passport, military ID, or go through the secondary verification process with a birth certificate and Social Security card.

If you are flying soon and your license is expired, renewing it at the DMV is usually faster than obtaining a passport. Many states offer same-day or next-day renewal for expired licenses, especially if you renew in person.

International travel and passports

A passport is required only if you are flying outside the United States—to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere else outside U.S. borders. For flights within the 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, a passport is not necessary.

If you are planning international travel in the future, getting a passport makes sense because it works for both domestic and international flights. But if you are only flying domestically, a state ID is simpler and faster to obtain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired passport?

No. TSA requires that any ID, including a passport, be unexpired. An expired passport will not work at security. If your passport is expired and you have no other valid ID, bring a birth certificate and Social Security card for secondary verification.

Do I need Real ID right now, or can I wait until May 2025?

You can wait, but only until May 7, 2025. After that date, a standard (non-Real ID) driver's license will not work at airport security. If your license does not have the star or indicator, renew it before May 2025. Renewing now avoids a rush closer to the important date.

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

You can still fly using the secondary verification process with a birth certificate and Social Security card. Arrive at the airport at least two hours early. TSA will conduct additional screening, but you will not be turned away. Some states also issue temporary ID documents at the DMV if you report your license lost.

Can I use a photo from my phone or a printed copy of my ID?

No. TSA requires a physical, government-issued ID card. A photo on your phone or a printed copy is not acceptable. You must bring the actual card issued by your state DMV, federal government, or military.

Do I need ID if I am flying with a child?

Children under 18 do not need to show ID for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult who has valid ID. The adult's identification is sufficient. However, if a child is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or guardian, TSA may request additional documentation.