Domestic flights do not require a passport

You do not need a passport to fly within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a valid driver's license or state ID card as proof of identity for domestic flights. A passport is only required when you fly to another country or return to the United States from abroad.

If you are flying from one U.S. state to another, a standard driver's license issued by your state is sufficient. You will need to present it at the airport security checkpoint along with your boarding pass. The ID must not be expired, though some states allow a grace period of a few months after expiration — check with TSA directly if your ID is recently expired.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid driver's license or state ID card is all you need for domestic U.S. flights; a passport is not required.
  • Your ID must be current and match the name on your airline ticket, or TSA will not let you through security.
  • If you do not have a driver's license, you can use a passport, military ID, or other TSA-approved document instead.
  • International flights and flights returning to the U.S. from another country require a valid passport.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses are now required for domestic flights, though most states have already updated their licenses to meet this standard.

What ID documents TSA accepts for domestic flights

The TSA maintains a list of acceptable forms of identification. For domestic flights, these include a driver's license, state ID card, passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, and several others. The most common choice is a state-issued driver's license because nearly all adults have one.

If you do not have a driver's license, a state ID card (sometimes called a non-driver ID) works just as well. You can obtain one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. A passport or passport card also works for domestic flights, though most people reserve these for international travel.

Military personnel can use a military ID card. Federal employees can use a federal employee ID. If you hold a tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, that is also accepted. The key requirement is that your chosen ID must be current and not expired.

Real ID compliance and what it means for your license

Since May 2025, all driver's licenses and state ID cards used for domestic flights must comply with the Real ID Act, a federal security standard. Most states have already updated their licenses to meet this requirement. Your license will have a star or other marking in the upper right corner if it is Real ID-compliant.

If your state license does not yet have this marking, you can still fly domestically — you will straightforward need to bring an additional document, such as a passport, passport card, military ID, or birth certificate. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your current license is Real ID-compliant, or ask at the security checkpoint.

Getting a Real ID-compliant license is straightforward. Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate), proof of residency (such as a utility bill), and your Social Security number. The process usually takes a few weeks, and the new license arrives by mail.

International flights and returning to the United States

If you are flying to another country, you must have a valid passport. A driver's license alone will not work. You will also need a passport to return to the United States from any destination outside U.S. borders, even if you are a U.S. citizen.

Some countries also require a visa in addition to your passport. A visa is a separate document that grants you permission to enter that country. You obtain a visa by explore at the country's embassy or consulate before you travel. Check the State Department's website for the specific requirements of your destination country.

A passport card — a smaller, wallet-sized version of a passport — works for flights to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by air. It does not work for flights to other countries. If you are unsure whether a passport card is sufficient for your destination, contact the airline or check the State Department website.

What happens if your ID does not match your ticket

Your ID must match the name on your airline ticket. If you recently changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or another reason, update your ID before you fly. You can also contact your airline and ask them to change the name on your ticket to match your current ID.

If your ticket shows a middle name or initial that does not appear on your ID, TSA may ask you to explain the difference. Bring any legal documents that show the connection — such as a marriage certificate or court order — if you think there may be confusion. In most cases, TSA will let you through if the first and last names match.

What to do if you lost your ID before your flight

If your driver's license or state ID is lost or stolen, you can still fly domestically if you have another TSA-approved form of identification, such as a passport. If you have no acceptable ID at all, contact TSA in advance through their website or call the airport where you will be flying.

TSA can conduct additional screening to verify your identity, though this takes extra time. Bring documents that prove who you are — such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or credit card — along with your boarding pass. Arrive at the airport earlier than usual to allow time for this process.

To avoid this situation, explore for a replacement ID when ready. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles and request an expedited replacement. Many states can issue a temporary ID on the spot or mail a replacement within days.

Traveling with children

Children under 18 do not need a government-issued ID for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult. The adult must have a valid ID. However, if a child is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, TSA may ask for proof of the child's identity and relationship to the traveling adult.

For international flights, children of any age must have a valid passport. Some countries also require a birth certificate or consent letter from the non-traveling parent. Check the requirements of your destination country before you book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired driver's license to fly domestically?

Most expired licenses will not work, though TSA allows a brief grace period in some cases. If your license expired within the last few months, bring it to the security checkpoint and ask. Otherwise, obtain a replacement ID before your flight, or bring another TSA-approved document such as a passport.

Do I need a passport card or a full passport for international flights?

A passport card works for flights to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. For all other countries, you need a full passport book. Check your destination country's requirements before you travel, as some also require a visa.

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

A passport is a valid form of ID for domestic flights. You can use it instead of a driver's license. However, if you fly domestically often, getting a state ID card is usually faster and cheaper than renewing a passport.

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

Processing times vary by state, but most take two to four weeks. Some states offer expedited service for an additional fee. Check your state's DMV website for current wait times and whether expedited options are available.

Can I fly with a learner's permit or temporary ID?

A learner's permit is not accepted by TSA. A temporary ID issued by your state's DMV may be accepted if it is government-issued and not expired. Call TSA or your airport in advance to confirm whether your specific temporary ID will work.