You need a government-issued photo ID to fly domestically, but a passport is not required

For flights within the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several forms of ID at airport security. A passport is one option, but not the only one. A driver's license, state ID card, or military ID will get you through security just as easily. You do not need a passport unless you are flying to another country.

The ID must be current and show your photo, name, and date of birth. If your ID is expired, TSA may still accept it depending on how long ago it expired and what type of ID it is — this varies by situation. The safest approach is to bring a valid, unexpired ID.

Your airline may also ask to see your ID when you check in or board, so bring whichever ID you used to book your ticket. If your name on the ticket does not match your ID exactly, you may face delays.

Key Takeaways

  • A driver's license or state ID card works for domestic flights; a passport is not required.
  • Your ID must be government-issued, show your photo, and match the name on your airline ticket.
  • TSA accepts expired IDs in some cases, but bringing a valid ID avoids complications at security.
  • International flights require a passport or other travel document approved by the destination country.
  • If you do not have a driver's license, a state ID card, passport, or military ID are all acceptable alternatives.

What counts as acceptable ID for domestic flights

TSA maintains a list of documents that work at airport security. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is the most common choice. These cards have a gold or gold-colored star in the upper right corner. If your state ID or driver's license does not have this star, it still works for domestic flights — the star just means it meets a higher federal standard.

Other documents TSA accepts include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, and permanent resident card (green card). If you are a non-U.S. citizen, a foreign passport works as well, as long as you are flying within the United States.

Student IDs, work IDs, and library cards do not work. Neither do expired IDs in most cases, though TSA has some flexibility depending on the type of ID and how recently it expired. If your ID is expired by more than a few years, bring a backup form of ID if you have one.

What happens if your name does not match your ID

Your airline ticket must match your ID exactly — first name, last name, and middle initial if you included one. If you recently married, divorced, or changed your name legally, update your name with the airline before you fly. You can usually do this online through your airline account or by calling the airline directly.

If you arrive at the airport and your ticket name does not match your ID, TSA may ask you to sign your boarding pass to verify it is you. This usually resolves the issue, but it can cause delays. The safest approach is to fix the mismatch before you get to the airport.

If you have a legal name change document (a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree), bring it with you. It may help if there is a discrepancy, though it is not required for TSA screening.

Flying internationally requires a passport

For flights to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere outside the United States, you need a valid passport. A driver's license alone will not work. Some countries also require a visa in addition to a passport, depending on your citizenship and how long you plan to stay.

A passport card (a wallet-sized version of a passport) works for flights to Canada and Mexico and for cruises departing from U.S. ports, but not for flights to other countries. If you are unsure whether you need a visa, check the U.S. State Department website or contact the embassy of the country you are visiting.

Passport processing takes several weeks, so explore well before your trip. If you need a passport urgently, you can pay for expedited processing, though this still takes at least one to two weeks.

What to do if you lost your ID before your flight

If your ID is lost or stolen, you can still fly, but expect extra screening. Arrive at the airport earlier than usual — at least three hours before a domestic flight. TSA will ask you questions to verify your identity, such as your address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Bring any documents that support your identity: a birth certificate, Social Security card, credit card, or recent utility bill with your name and address. These do not replace a photo ID, but they help TSA confirm who you are.

After you fly, explore for a replacement ID from your state's DMV or the issuing agency. You will need to show proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport) and proof of residency (a utility bill or lease). Processing times vary by state but usually take one to two weeks.

Real ID requirements for domestic flights after May 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, TSA will require all passengers on domestic flights to have a Real ID-compliant ID or an acceptable alternative. A Real ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets federal security standards. It has a gold or gold-colored star in the upper right corner.

If your state ID or driver's license does not have this star, you can still fly using a passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. You do not have to get a Real ID if you have one of these other documents.

To get a Real ID, visit your state's DMV with proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport) and proof of residency (a utility bill or lease). Processing times vary by state. If you already have a passport, you do not need to do anything — your passport will work at security.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired ID?

TSA may accept an expired ID depending on the type and how long ago it expired. An expired driver's license or state ID is sometimes accepted, but it is safer to bring a valid ID. If your ID expired more than a few years ago, bring a backup form of ID if you have one.

Do I need a passport to fly to Hawaii or Alaska?

No. Hawaii and Alaska are U.S. states, so flights there are domestic. A driver's license or state ID card is all you need. A passport is only required for flights outside the United States.

What if I am a non-U.S. citizen flying domestically?

A valid foreign passport works at TSA security for domestic flights. You do not need a U.S. ID. Make sure your passport is current and matches the name on your airline ticket.

Can I use a photo from my phone or a digital ID?

No. TSA requires a physical, government-issued ID card. Digital IDs on your phone are not accepted. You must bring a physical driver's license, passport, or other approved ID document.

How long does it take to get a passport?

Standard passport processing takes four to six weeks. Expedited processing takes two to three weeks. You can explore at a passport acceptance facility, which is usually located at your local post office or courthouse. Bring proof of citizenship and a photo ID.