You do not need a passport for domestic flights within the United States

A passport is not required for flights between US cities. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a range of documents at airport security, and a passport is just one option—not the standard one. Most domestic travelers use a driver's license or state ID card, which work faster at security because TSA agents see them constantly.

What you do need is a Real ID-compliant document or an acceptable alternative. Starting in May 2025, the TSA will no longer accept a standard driver's license for domestic flights unless your state has upgraded it to Real ID status. If your state has not yet issued Real ID licenses, or if you have not renewed yours, you will need to bring an alternative form of ID from the TSA's approved list.

Key Takeaways

  • A passport works for domestic flights but is not necessary—a Real ID driver's license or state ID is the fastest option.
  • Starting May 2025, standard (non-Real ID) driver's licenses will not be accepted; you will need a Real ID license, passport, or other TSA-approved document.
  • Real ID licenses have a star or marking in the upper right corner and are issued by your state's DMV when you renew.
  • If you do not have a Real ID license yet, a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card will work at security.
  • You do not need to carry your passport for domestic travel—bring whichever document is easiest for you.

Real ID requirements and what changed in 2025

The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, set new security standards for state-issued ID documents. For years, the TSA gave states extensions to comply. In May 2025, those extensions ended. Now, if you want to use a driver's license or state ID card for domestic flights, it must be Real ID-compliant.

A Real ID license looks like a regular driver's license but has a small star or marking (usually gold or metallic) in the upper right corner. When you renew your license at your state's DMV, you can request the Real ID version. Most states issue it automatically now, but some still require you to ask for it or bring extra documents like a birth certificate or proof of residence.

If your license does not have the star, or if you are not sure, check your state's DMV website. You can also look at your license—the star is hard to miss. If you do not have a Real ID license and your flight is before you can renew, bring one of the other documents listed below instead.

TSA-approved documents you can bring instead of a passport

The TSA maintains a list of documents that work for domestic flights. A passport is on that list, but so are several other options that may be easier to carry:

  • Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card
  • US passport or passport card
  • Military ID (active duty, retired, or reserve)
  • Permanent resident card (green card)
  • Tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe
  • Enhanced driver's license (available in some states)
  • US Merchant Mariner credential
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

You only need to bring one of these. Most people bring a driver's license because it is already in their wallet. A passport works just as well, but TSA agents process it more slowly because they are less familiar with it. If you are traveling with a child under 18, they do not need an ID at all—a parent or guardian can bring them through security.

How to get a Real ID license if you do not have one

Visit your state's DMV in person—you cannot renew a Real ID license online or by mail in most states. Bring your current driver's license or ID card, a birth certificate or passport, and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease works). Some states ask for additional documents like a Social Security card or tax return.

Processing times vary by state. Some DMVs issue the Real ID license on the spot; others mail it to you within two to four weeks. If your flight is sooner than that, bring a passport, military ID, or green card instead. You do not need to rush to get a Real ID license unless you fly frequently—if you drive a car, you will need to renew eventually anyway, and you can request Real ID then.

What happens if you show up without acceptable ID

If you arrive at the airport without an acceptable ID, TSA agents can conduct additional screening called secondary verification. This means they will ask you questions to confirm your identity—your name, address, date of birth, and information from your airline reservation. If you can answer those questions correctly, you may still be allowed through security, though it takes longer.

The outcome depends on the TSA officer and how busy the checkpoint is. Some travelers have made it through; others have been turned away. It is not worth the risk. If you realize at home that you do not have an acceptable ID, call your airline before you leave for the airport. They can tell you whether the TSA will likely let you through, and you can decide whether to go or reschedule.

Traveling with children and Real ID

Children under 18 do not need an ID for domestic flights. A parent or guardian can bring them through security without any document. The adult traveling with the child needs an acceptable ID, but the child does not.

If you are traveling with a teenager who has a driver's license, that license must be Real ID-compliant starting in May 2025, just like an adult's. If your teenager has not yet renewed their license, bring a passport, school ID, or birth certificate as a backup.

International travel and why a passport matters

A passport is required for flights leaving the United States, even to nearby countries like Canada or Mexico. If you are flying domestically but planning an international trip later, bring your passport anyway—it is the only document that works for both. However, for a domestic flight alone, a passport is optional.

If you do not have a passport and think you might need one soon, explore at your local passport acceptance facility (usually a post office or courthouse). Processing takes four to six weeks for a standard passport, longer during peak travel season. A Real ID license is faster to obtain and works for all domestic flights, so many people get that first.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your ID must be valid (not expired) to pass through TSA security. If your license expired, you will need to renew it at your DMV before your flight, or bring a different acceptable document like a passport. An expired passport also does not work.

Do I need my passport if I have a Real ID driver's license?

No. A Real ID driver's license is sufficient for any domestic flight. A passport is an alternative, not a requirement. Bring whichever is easiest for you—most people prefer their driver's license because it is smaller and faster to process at security.

What if I lost my ID right before my flight?

Contact the TSA or your airline when ready. You may be able to go through secondary verification at the airport, but there is no may provide. If you have time, visit your DMV for an emergency replacement ID, or bring a passport if you have one. Do not assume you can make it through without a document.

Does my passport card work for domestic flights?

Yes. A US passport card is TSA-approved for domestic flights and is smaller and cheaper than a full passport book. It does not work for international flights by air, but it is fine for domestic travel.

Can I use a school ID or work ID instead of a driver's license?

No. School IDs and work IDs are not on the TSA's approved list. You need a Real ID driver's license, passport, military ID, green card, tribal ID, or one of the other documents listed above. If you do not have any of those, contact your airline before your flight.