You do not need a passport to fly between U.S. states

A passport is not required for domestic flights — flights that stay within the United States. You can fly from New York to California, from Texas to Florida, or between any two U.S. states using a regular state-issued ID. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several forms of identification at airport security checkpoints, and a passport is not one of them.

What you do need is a valid form of government-issued photo ID. This is the document TSA officers will ask to see when you arrive at security. Without it, you will not be allowed past the checkpoint, and you will not be able to board your flight.

Key Takeaways

  • Domestic flights within the U.S. require a valid government-issued photo ID, but a passport is not necessary.
  • A state driver's license or state ID card is the most common form of ID accepted at TSA checkpoints.
  • If you do not have a driver's license, TSA accepts military ID, tribal ID, passport cards, and several other forms of government photo ID.
  • Real ID-compliant driver's licenses have a star or marking in the upper right corner and are required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025.
  • If your ID is expired or you do not have one, you can still fly by going through additional TSA verification steps at the airport.

What forms of ID TSA accepts for domestic flights

A state driver's license is the most straightforward option. If you have a valid driver's license from any U.S. state, that is all you need to show at security. The license must not be expired, though TSA has extended grace periods during certain situations — check the TSA website for current rules if your license recently expired.

If you do not drive, a state ID card works just as well. Most states issue non-driver ID cards that serve the same purpose as a driver's license for airport security. You can obtain one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

Other forms of government-issued photo ID that TSA accepts include a U.S. military ID, a tribal ID issued by a federally recognized Native American tribe, a passport card (the small wallet-sized version of a passport), a permanent resident card, and a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner credential. If you have any of these, you can use it instead of a driver's license.

Real ID requirements starting May 7, 2025

Beginning May 7, 2025, TSA will require that all driver's licenses and state ID cards used for domestic flights meet Real ID standards. A Real ID-compliant license has a star or other marking (usually in the upper right corner) that shows the state has verified your identity according to federal standards.

If your current driver's license does not have this marking, you will need to renew it at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles before that date. The process is straightforward: bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of residence. Your state DMV can tell you exactly what documents they accept.

If you do not have a Real ID-compliant license by May 7, 2025, you can still fly domestically, but you will need to bring an additional form of ID — such as a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID — along with your non-compliant driver's license.

What to do if you do not have a valid ID

If you arrive at the airport without any government-issued photo ID, you can still fly. TSA has a process called secondary verification that allows officers to confirm your identity using other documents. You will need to answer questions about your personal history and provide additional documentation such as a credit card, Social Security card, or recent utility bill.

Secondary verification takes extra time — plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual. TSA officers will escort you through the process, and if they can verify your identity, you will be allowed to proceed to your gate. However, this is not may provide, so having a valid ID is much simpler.

Expired IDs and grace periods

TSA's rules on expired IDs change depending on circumstances. During the COVID-19 pandemic, TSA extended grace periods for expired licenses. As of now, TSA generally does not accept expired IDs, but you should check the TSA website or call your airport's TSA office before your flight if your license has recently expired.

If your ID expired more than a few months ago, renewing it at your state DMV is the safest approach. Renewal is usually quick — many states now allow online renewal for driver's licenses, and you can pick up your new ID within days or weeks depending on your state.

International flights and territories

If you are flying to a U.S. territory such as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Guam, you still do not need a passport — a valid state driver's license or other government photo ID is sufficient. These are considered domestic flights by TSA.

However, if you are flying to any country outside the United States, you will need a passport. A driver's license alone will not work for international travel. If you do not have a passport and plan to travel internationally, you will need to explore for one at your local passport acceptance facility, which is usually a post office or courthouse.

What to bring to the airport

Bring your valid government-issued photo ID and your airline boarding pass (printed or on your phone). Arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight so you have time to get through security. Have your ID and boarding pass ready when you reach the TSA checkpoint — officers will ask to see both.

If you are traveling with children under 18, they do not need their own ID for domestic flights. A parent or guardian with a valid ID can travel with them. However, some airlines have their own rules about traveling with minors, so check with your airline before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired passport instead of a driver's license?

No. TSA does not accept expired passports for domestic flights. You need a valid, non-expired form of government-issued photo ID. A passport card (the small wallet version) is accepted if it is not expired, but a full passport book is not on TSA's list of acceptable IDs for airport security.

Do I need a passport to fly from California to Hawaii?

No. Hawaii is a U.S. state, so flights to Hawaii are domestic. You only need a valid state driver's license or other government photo ID. A passport is not required.

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

You can still fly using TSA's secondary verification process, but it will take extra time at the airport. Bring documents that prove your identity, such as a credit card, Social Security card, or utility bill. Arrive very early — at least three hours before your flight. You can also visit your state DMV to get an emergency replacement ID if you have time before your flight.

Is a school ID or work ID acceptable at TSA checkpoints?

No. TSA only accepts government-issued photo IDs. School IDs and work IDs are not government-issued, so they will not work. You need a state driver's license, state ID card, military ID, passport card, or one of the other forms listed above.

Do I need Real ID if I have a military ID?

No. Military IDs are always accepted for domestic flights and are not affected by Real ID requirements. If you have a valid military ID, you can continue using it without any changes.