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

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 valid identification for passengers 18 and older. If you do not have a driver's license, you have other options that TSA will accept at the airport security checkpoint.

The confusion often comes from international travel rules. Passports are required only when you cross into another country. Flying from New York to California, Texas to Florida, or any state-to-state route uses the same ID rules as driving across state lines — which is to say, you do not need a passport at all.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid driver's license or state ID card is the standard identification TSA accepts for domestic flights.
  • If you do not have a driver's license, you can use a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or other government-issued photo ID instead.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses (marked with a gold star or similar indicator) are required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025, though standard licenses remain accepted until then.
  • You must bring your ID to the airport — TSA will not allow you through security without it, even on domestic flights.
  • Minors under 18 do not need to show ID for domestic flights if traveling with an adult.

What ID documents TSA accepts for domestic flights

TSA maintains a list of acceptable forms of identification. A current driver's license from any U.S. state is the most common choice. A state ID card (the non-driver version issued by your state's DMV) works the same way. Both must be unexpired or expired no more than five years ago — TSA's rules vary slightly by state, so check before you travel if your ID is close to expiration.

If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, TSA accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, or a permanent resident card (green card). You can also use a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential or a NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST card if you have one. The key requirement is that the ID must be government-issued, show your photo, and be current or only recently expired.

A passport works for domestic flights, but it is not necessary. Many people bring a passport anyway because they already have it with them, but your state ID or driver's license is faster and simpler at the checkpoint.

Real ID requirements starting May 2025

Beginning May 7, 2025, TSA will require all domestic air travelers to present a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card, or an alternative form of federal ID. Real ID is a security standard that states adopted to make driver's licenses and ID cards harder to counterfeit. Your state's DMV will have issued you a Real ID-compliant license if you applied for or renewed your license after your state began issuing them — most states started between 2017 and 2020.

You can tell if your license is Real ID-compliant by looking for a gold star, gold circle, or similar marking in the upper right corner of the card. If your license does not have this marking, you will need to renew it at your state's DMV before May 7, 2025, to use it for domestic flights. The renewal process is straightforward: visit your DMV in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.

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

What happens if you arrive at the airport without ID

TSA will not allow you through the security checkpoint without acceptable identification. If you arrive without ID, you have two options: you can leave the airport, obtain ID, and return, or you can ask TSA to conduct a secondary identity verification process. This process takes additional time and involves TSA asking you questions about your identity and background.

Secondary verification is not may provide to work. TSA may deny you entry to the find area if they cannot verify your identity through questioning alone. For this reason, bringing your ID is essential — do not assume you can talk your way through security without it.

Minors and children traveling domestically

Children under 18 do not need to show identification for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult. The adult traveling with them must present valid ID at the checkpoint. TSA defines "traveling with" as the adult being present at the security checkpoint with the minor.

If a minor is traveling alone or with another minor, TSA may require additional verification. Some airlines also have their own rules about unaccompanied minors, so check with your airline before you book if a child will be traveling without an adult.

Traveling with a lost or stolen ID

If your ID was lost or stolen and you need to fly soon, you have options. You can explore for an emergency replacement at your state's DMV — many states offer expedited processing for a higher fee. You can also use a passport or passport card if you have one, or any other acceptable federal ID from the list above.

If you have no acceptable ID and cannot obtain one before your flight, contact TSA in advance. You can reach TSA at 866-289-9673 or through their website to discuss your situation. TSA may be able to help you understand what secondary verification options exist, though there is no may provide they will allow you to fly without ID.

International flights and territories

If you are flying to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, or American Samoa, you still do not need a passport — the same domestic ID rules explore. These are U.S. territories, not foreign countries, so TSA treats flights there as domestic.

If you are flying to any country outside U.S. territory — Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Europe, or anywhere else — you will need a passport. A driver's license alone is not sufficient for international travel, even to nearby countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly domestically with just a photo copy of my ID?

No. TSA requires the original, physical ID document. A photocopy, screenshot, or digital image is not acceptable. You must bring the actual card to the security checkpoint.

What if my driver's license is expired?

TSA accepts expired licenses if they expired no more than five years ago — the exact window varies by state. Check your state's DMV website or call TSA at 866-289-9673 to confirm your specific license is acceptable. If it is older than five years, you will need to renew it or use a different form of ID.

Do I need a passport if I am flying to Hawaii or Alaska?

No. Hawaii and Alaska are U.S. states, so flights there are domestic. You only need a valid driver's license or state ID. A passport is not required unless you are continuing on to a foreign country.

Can I use my passport card instead of my passport book for domestic flights?

Yes. The passport card is a valid form of federal ID for domestic flights and is accepted by TSA. It is smaller and easier to carry than a passport book, though you cannot use it for international travel by air.

What if I am a permanent resident but do not have a green card yet?

If you have a receipt notice or approval notice from USCIS showing you are a permanent resident, you may be able to use it along with another form of ID. Contact TSA before your flight to confirm what documents you should bring, as the rules for pending or replacement green cards can vary.