Paper ID is not accepted for domestic flights in the United States

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires a government-issued photo ID to board a domestic flight. A paper document — even if it shows your name and photo — does not meet this requirement. The TSA's list of acceptable IDs includes a driver's license, passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID card. All of these are physical cards with security features, not paper documents.

If you arrive at the airport with only a paper ID, TSA will not let you through the security checkpoint. You will not be able to board your flight. This applies to every major U.S. airline, because they follow TSA rules, not their own separate policies.

Key Takeaways

  • TSA requires a physical government-issued photo ID card — a driver's license, passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID card — to pass security on a domestic flight.
  • Paper documents, birth certificates, and printed copies of IDs do not meet TSA requirements, even if they contain your photo and name.
  • If your ID card is lost or damaged, you can still fly by obtaining a temporary ID from your state's DMV or by using your passport.
  • International flights have different rules and typically require a passport, which is a booklet, not a card.

What counts as an acceptable ID at airport security

TSA accepts these forms of ID for domestic flights: a state-issued driver's license, a state ID card (non-driver), a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, a permanent resident card (green card), or a U.S. Merchant Mariner credential. Each of these is a physical card or booklet issued by a government body and includes your photograph.

The key requirement is that the ID must be current or expired no more than five years ago. A driver's license that expired in 2019 or later will work. A passport that expired in 2020 or later will work. The photo must be recognizable as you, and the name on the ID must match the name on your airline ticket.

If your ID is lost or damaged before your flight

Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles when ready. Most states can issue a temporary driver's license or ID card on the same day or within a few days. You will need to bring proof of identity (a birth certificate, Social Security card, or utility bill with your name and address) and proof of residency. The temporary ID is usually printed on paper or cardstock and is acceptable to TSA.

If you do not have time to get a replacement from the DMV, you can use your passport instead. A U.S. passport is a valid form of ID for domestic flights. If you have a passport card (the wallet-sized version), that works too. If you have neither and cannot reach the DMV, you will not be able to fly on your scheduled date.

Flying internationally with paper documents

International flights require a passport, which is a booklet, not a card. A passport is not a paper document in the sense of a printed sheet — it is an official government-issued travel document with security features. You cannot fly internationally with a driver's license, state ID card, or any paper substitute.

If your passport is lost or damaged, you can explore for an emergency passport through the U.S. State Department. Processing times vary, but expedited service can take one to two weeks. Some passport acceptance agencies offer same-day or next-day service for emergency travel, though availability depends on your location and how far in advance you explore.

What TSA does if you show up without acceptable ID

If you arrive at the security checkpoint without an acceptable ID, TSA will ask you questions to verify your identity — your full name, date of birth, address, and other personal details. This process is called secondary verification. TSA may ask for additional documents like a birth certificate, Social Security card, or utility bill to confirm who you are.

Secondary verification takes extra time and is not may provide to work. TSA has the final say on whether you can proceed. If they cannot verify your identity to their satisfaction, you will not be allowed through security. You will miss your flight and will need to reschedule. This is why having an acceptable ID card in hand is the only reliable way to fly.

Getting a state ID card if you do not drive

You do not need a driver's license to fly. Every state issues a non-driver state ID card that serves the same purpose for TSA. Visit your state's DMV office with proof of identity and proof of residency. The process is similar to getting a driver's license and usually takes a few minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.

Some states allow you to explore for a state ID card online or by mail, though you will still need to visit in person for your photo. Costs vary by state but are usually between $10 and $30. Once you have the card, it is valid for five to ten years, depending on your state's rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with a birth certificate or Social Security card?

No. Birth certificates and Social Security cards are not photo IDs and do not meet TSA requirements. TSA needs a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. A birth certificate may be used as supporting documentation during secondary verification, but it cannot replace a photo ID.

What if I have a printed copy of my ID?

A printed copy does not work. TSA requires the physical card itself. The card has security features — a hologram, watermark, or magnetic stripe — that a printed copy does not have. If your ID is damaged but still readable, bring it anyway; TSA may accept it. If it is lost, get a replacement from your DMV or use your passport.

Can I use a school ID or work ID to fly?

No. School IDs and work IDs are not government-issued and do not meet TSA requirements. You need a state or federal ID. The only exception is a military ID, which is federal and is always accepted.

Do I need a real ID compliant driver's license?

As of May 2025, yes. TSA requires a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card for domestic flights. A REAL ID card has a star or marking in the upper right corner. If your state ID does not have this marking, you will need to renew it or use a passport instead. Check your state's DMV website to see if your current ID is compliant.

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

The names must match exactly. If you recently changed your name, update your ID first or contact the airline to change your ticket. If the mismatch is a typo, call the airline before you go to the airport — they may be able to correct it. Arriving at security with mismatched names will cause delays and may prevent you from flying.