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. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several forms of identification at airport security, and a passport is just one of many options. Most people use a driver's license or state ID card, which work just as well and are faster to process.

The rule is straightforward: you need a Real ID-compliant form of identification or an acceptable alternative. Real ID is a federal security standard that most states have adopted for their driver's licenses and ID cards. If your state's license or ID has a gold or silver star in the upper right corner, it meets Real ID requirements. If it does not have that star, you can still fly — you just need to bring an alternative form of ID from the TSA's approved list.

Key Takeaways

  • A driver's license or state ID card is the standard form of identification for domestic flights and does not require a passport.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses (marked with a star) are preferred but not required; you can fly with a non-compliant license if you bring an alternative ID.
  • The TSA accepts passports, military IDs, tribal IDs, and several other documents if your driver's license does not have a Real ID star.
  • You will need to show your ID at the airport security checkpoint, not when you book your ticket.

What the TSA accepts at security checkpoints

The TSA maintains a list of acceptable identification documents for domestic flights. A Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID is the fastest option. If your license does not have the Real ID star, you can bring a passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card instead. You can also use a U.S. Merchant Mariner document or a NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST card if you have one.

The key point: you need one acceptable form of ID. It does not have to be a passport. Most travelers use a driver's license because it is what they already carry. A passport works, but it is not necessary and takes longer to verify at the checkpoint because TSA agents are more accustomed to scanning licenses.

How to check if your license is Real ID-compliant

Look at your driver's license or state ID card. If there is a gold or silver star in the upper right corner, your license is Real ID-compliant and meets TSA requirements for domestic flights. If there is no star, your license is still valid for flying — you just need to bring a second form of ID from the TSA's approved list.

Each state issues Real ID licenses differently. Some states automatically upgraded existing licenses; others require you to visit the DMV and request a Real ID license. If you are unsure whether your license has been upgraded, contact your state's DMV or check their website. You can also straightforward bring a passport or other approved ID to the airport if you are not certain.

What happens at the airport security checkpoint

When you arrive at the airport, you will go to the TSA security checkpoint before you reach your gate. A TSA agent will ask for your ID and your boarding pass. Hand over your driver's license, passport, or whichever acceptable ID you brought. The agent will scan it, verify it matches your boarding pass, and wave you through to remove your shoes and place your bag on the conveyor belt.

The entire process takes less than a minute if your ID is in order. You do not need to show ID when you book your ticket online or at the airline counter — only at the security checkpoint. If you forgot your ID at home, TSA has a process for that too, but it involves additional questions and may delay you, so it is worth double-checking before you leave.

International flights and connections

If you are flying to another country, you will need a passport. A driver's license is not accepted for international travel. However, if you are flying from one U.S. state to another — even if you have a connection in a third state — you only need a domestic ID. The TSA does not care where you are going; they only check that you have acceptable identification for a domestic flight.

The rule changes only when you cross a U.S. border. If your flight goes to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or anywhere outside the United States, bring your passport. If your flight stays within the 50 states, a driver's license is sufficient.

What to bring if you do not have a current driver's license

If you do not drive or your license has expired, you have options. An unexpired state ID card works just as the same as a driver's license — many states issue them specifically for people who do not drive. You can get one at your local DMV. A passport also works, as does a military ID if you are active duty or a veteran. A tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe is accepted as well.

If you are in a bind and do not have any of these documents, the TSA can still let you through the checkpoint, but it requires additional verification. You will be asked questions about your identity and may be subject to a more thorough search. This process can add 15 to 30 minutes to your airport time, so it is worth obtaining an acceptable ID before you travel if you can.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, your ID must be unexpired. An expired license will not work at the TSA checkpoint. If your license expired, renew it at your state's DMV before you fly. An expired passport also will not work for domestic flights.

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. A driver's license or state ID is sufficient. You only need a passport if you are flying outside the United States.

What if my name on my ID does not match my airline ticket?

Your name on your ID must match your boarding pass exactly. If you recently changed your name and have not updated your license, contact the airline before you fly. You may need to bring a marriage certificate or court order along with your old and new ID to resolve the mismatch at the airport.

Can I use a photo on my phone instead of a physical ID?

No. The TSA requires a physical ID document. A photo on your phone is not accepted. You must bring an actual card or passport to the security checkpoint.

Do children need ID to fly domestically?

Children under 18 do not need to show ID if they are traveling with an adult who has acceptable identification. The adult's ID covers both passengers. If a child is traveling alone or with another minor, they will need their own ID.