You do not need a passport for domestic flights in the United States

A passport is not required to fly within the US. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts several forms of identification at airport security, and a passport is only one option. For domestic travel, a regular driver's license, state ID card, or military ID will get you through security just as quickly.

The confusion often comes from international travel rules. A passport is mandatory only when you cross a border — flying to Canada, Mexico, or any other country. Within US borders, the TSA has a much longer list of acceptable documents, and a passport is actually one of the least convenient choices because it takes longer to verify.

Key Takeaways

  • A valid driver's license or state ID card is the fastest way through TSA security for domestic flights.
  • Passports are accepted but slower to process than a standard ID because TSA staff must verify the document more carefully.
  • If you do not have a driver's license, you can use a military ID, tribal ID, passport card, or other TSA-approved documents.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses became required for domestic flights starting in May 2025, so check whether your state ID meets the standard.

What the TSA accepts at security checkpoints

The TSA maintains a list of acceptable documents for domestic travel. A standard driver's license from any US state works. So does a state ID card, even if you do not drive. Military ID cards, including those for active duty, reserves, and retired service members, are accepted. A passport card (the wallet-sized version, not the booklet) also works, as does a tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe.

Less common but valid options include a commercial driver's license, a permanent resident card (green card), an employment authorization document, a US Merchant Mariner card, and a Native American tribal document. If you have any of these, you do not need to carry a passport. The TSA website lists the full set of documents, and you can check there if you are unsure whether what you have will work.

Real ID requirements changed in May 2025

Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA began enforcing Real ID standards for domestic air travel. This means your driver's license or state ID must meet federal security standards. Most states have already issued Real ID-compliant licenses, but some have not, and some people still carry older versions.

You can tell whether your ID is Real ID-compliant by looking for a small star in the upper right corner of the card. If your license does not have this star and your state has not yet issued Real ID cards, you can still fly domestically — but you will need to bring a second form of ID along with your driver's license. A passport, passport card, military ID, or birth certificate will work as the second document. Check your state's DMV website to see whether Real ID licenses are available in your area and whether you need to renew.

Why a passport is slower than a regular ID

TSA officers are trained to verify driver's licenses and state IDs quickly. These documents are familiar, standardized across states, and straightforward to check against a database. A passport, by contrast, requires more careful inspection. The officer must examine security features, verify the document is genuine, and confirm it has not been reported lost or stolen. This takes longer than scanning a driver's license.

If you are traveling domestically and have a driver's license, leave the passport at home. You will move through security faster, and you will not risk damage to a document you may need for international travel later. Save the passport for trips outside the US.

What to bring if you lost your ID

If your driver's license or state ID is lost or expired, you have options. A passport or passport card will work at security. So will a military ID, tribal ID, or permanent resident card if you have one. If you have none of these, the TSA allows secondary documents in combination — typically a birth certificate plus a credit card, or a birth certificate plus a Social Security card.

Secondary documents take longer to process because the officer must verify two pieces of paper instead of one. If you are flying soon and do not have a primary ID, contact your state DMV about expedited replacement. Many states can issue a temporary ID or replacement license within days. That will be faster than relying on secondary documents at the airport.

Traveling with children and minors

Children under 18 do not need to show ID at all for domestic flights if they are traveling with an adult. The TSA only requires the adult to present valid identification. If a minor is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, the TSA may ask for additional documentation, but a passport is not required — a birth certificate or school ID can work.

If you are traveling with a child and want to bring a passport anyway, that is fine, but it is not necessary. A birth certificate is lighter to carry and serves the same purpose if questions arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The TSA requires a valid, unexpired ID. An expired license will not work, even if it is only expired by a few days. If your license expired recently, contact your state DMV about a replacement or temporary ID before your flight.

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

No. Hawaii and Alaska are US states, so flights there are domestic. A driver's license or state ID is all you need. A passport is only required if you are flying to a US territory outside the 50 states, such as Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands, because those trips cross a border.

What if my state has not issued Real ID licenses yet?

You can still fly domestically. Bring your current driver's license plus a second form of ID — a passport, birth certificate, or military ID. The TSA will accept the combination. Check your state DMV website to see when Real ID licenses will be available and whether you can request one early.

Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A passport card is TSA-approved for domestic flights and is smaller and easier to carry than a full passport booklet. However, a passport card cannot be used for international air travel — only a full passport booklet works for flights outside the US.

Do I need to show ID at the airport if I am just dropping someone off?

No. You only need ID if you are going through security to reach the gates. If you are dropping a passenger at the curb or in the terminal, you do not need to show identification.