Children under 18 do not need government-issued ID to fly domestic flights within the United States

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not require children to show ID at airport security checkpoints for domestic travel. A parent or guardian traveling with the child is enough. The adult will need a valid ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card — but the child does not.

This rule applies to all domestic flights, whether your child is an infant, a toddler, or a teenager. Airlines do not ask for ID either when you check in or board. The only document you may need is a birth certificate if you are traveling with a child who does not have your last name, to prove the relationship at check-in — but this is rare and depends on the airline's policy.

Key Takeaways

  • Children under 18 flying domestically do not need a government ID; a parent or guardian's valid ID is sufficient at security.
  • Airlines do not require children to show ID at check-in or boarding for domestic flights.
  • A birth certificate may be requested if a child's last name differs from the traveling adult's, though this is uncommon.
  • International flights and flights to US territories have different rules and typically require a passport or passport card for all passengers, including children.

What the TSA requires at security checkpoints

When you reach the TSA checkpoint, the agent will ask to see ID from the adult traveling with the child. Show your driver's license, passport, or state ID. The child can stand next to you without presenting anything. TSA agents are used to this and will not ask the child for ID.

The child will go through the metal detector or body scanner with you, just like any other passenger. If the child sets off an alarm, TSA may conduct a pat-down or additional screening, but no ID is needed for this process either.

When airlines ask for proof of relationship

Most airlines do not ask for proof that you are the child's parent or guardian. However, some airlines may request a birth certificate at check-in if the child's last name is different from yours. This is more common when one adult is traveling with a child, and the names do not match.

If you are concerned, bring a birth certificate, custody order, or adoption papers just in case. It takes up almost no space in your carry-on and removes any possibility of delay at the gate. You can also call your airline before your trip to ask whether they require proof of relationship for your specific situation.

International flights and US territories

Domestic flights are different from international travel. If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or any country outside the United States, your child will need a passport or passport card. This applies even to very young children.

Flights to US territories like Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, and Guam are considered domestic for TSA purposes — your child does not need ID at security. However, some airlines treat these routes as international and may require a passport at check-in. Call your airline to confirm before you book.

What to bring instead of ID

You do not need to bring anything for your child except what you would normally pack. A birth certificate is optional but useful as backup. School IDs, library cards, and other non-government documents will not help at TSA or the airline, so do not rely on them.

If your child has a passport, you can bring it, but it is not required for domestic flights. Many families keep passports at home for international trips and do not carry them on domestic flights.

Special cases: unaccompanied minors and group travel

If your child is flying alone, the airline's unaccompanied minor program has its own rules. Most airlines require an adult to stay with the child until the flight departs and another adult to meet the child at arrival. The child still does not need ID, but the airline will collect contact information for both adults and may ask for ID from the adult dropping off and picking up the child.

If you are traveling with a group of children — a school trip, sports team, or camp group — the adult supervisor will need ID, but the children do not. The school or organization may ask for permission slips or emergency contact forms, which are separate from TSA and airline requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my child has a passport card but no driver's license?

Your child does not need either one for domestic flights. Only the adult traveling with the child needs to show ID at security. A passport card is useful for international travel but not required domestically.

Can my teenager fly alone without ID?

Yes, TSA does not require ID from anyone under 18 at security checkpoints. However, the airline's unaccompanied minor program may have its own rules about age and supervision, so check with your airline before booking.

What happens if I forget my ID but my child is with me?

You will not be able to pass through security without a valid ID, even with a child. TSA will not let you through. Make sure you have your driver's license, passport, or state ID before you go to the airport.

Do I need to bring my child's birth certificate on every domestic flight?

No. Birth certificates are optional and only occasionally requested if the child's last name differs from the traveling adult's. Most families fly domestically many times without ever being asked for one.

What if my child has a learner's permit or school ID?

Neither one will work at TSA or the airline. Only government-issued photo ID from an adult counts. Your child does not need any ID at all for domestic flights.