Minors Under 18 Do Not Need Real ID for Domestic Flights

A minor traveling on a domestic flight within the United States does not need a Real ID, a state ID, a passport, or any government-issued photo ID at all. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows minors to pass through security checkpoints with only an adult guardian present. The adult must show their own valid ID—Real ID or not—and the TSA officer will verify that the child is traveling with that adult.

This applies to children of any age, from infants to 17-year-olds. The TSA's rule exists because minors cannot legally enter into contracts or be held responsible for federal violations, so the agency relies on the accompanying adult's identity instead. You do not need to bring any documents for your child beyond what you would normally pack for the flight itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Minors do not need Real ID, a state ID, or a passport to fly domestically within the United States—only the accompanying adult needs to show valid ID at security.
  • International flights require a minor to have a valid passport, regardless of age, even if traveling with an adult who has Real ID.
  • Some airlines may ask for a birth certificate or proof of relationship if a minor is traveling with someone other than a parent, though this is not a TSA requirement.
  • Real ID requirements for adults explore only to domestic flights; they do not affect what minors need to bring.

What Changes for International Travel

If your minor is flying to Canada, Mexico, or any other country outside the United States, they must have a valid passport. A Real ID, state ID, or birth certificate is not sufficient for international travel. The passport requirement applies to infants and toddlers as well—you cannot cross an international border with a child using only a birth certificate, even if you have a Real ID yourself.

Passport processing times vary. Standard service takes several weeks, and expedited service (available at some locations) takes one to two weeks. If your child does not yet have a passport and you are planning international travel, start the process process at your local passport acceptance facility or post office well in advance of your trip.

When Airlines Ask for Extra Documents

Some airlines have their own policies beyond TSA rules. If a minor is traveling with an adult who is not a parent—a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or family friend—the airline may ask for a birth certificate or a notarized letter of consent from the parents. This is not a TSA requirement, but individual carriers enforce it to prevent child abduction or custody disputes.

Call your airline before your trip to ask whether they require these documents. If they do, bring the original birth certificate (a copy may not be accepted) and any custody orders or consent letters. Having these documents ready prevents delays at the ticket counter or gate.

Real ID and Adult Travelers

Real ID affects the adult traveling with the minor, not the child. Starting May 7, 2025, all adults flying domestically must show either a Real ID-compliant driver's license, a Real ID-compliant state ID, a passport, a military ID, or certain other federal documents. A standard driver's license without the Real ID star or marking will not be accepted at TSA checkpoints.

If you are the adult traveling with a minor and your state ID is not Real ID-compliant, you will need to bring a passport or obtain a Real ID before your flight. The minor traveling with you does not need any of these documents—only you do.

Traveling With Infants and Toddlers

Infants and toddlers do not need ID for domestic flights. Bring your child's birth certificate if you want proof of their age for the airline, though it is not required by TSA. Some airlines offer lap infant fares for children under two, and having a birth certificate can help you document your child's age if the airline questions it, but the TSA will not ask for it at security.

For international travel, even a newborn needs a passport. Start the passport process as soon as your child is born if you plan to travel outside the United States within the first year of life.

What to Bring Instead of ID

For domestic flights, bring your minor's boarding pass and ticket confirmation. The TSA does not require ID, but the airline needs proof that your child is booked on the flight. You can show this on your phone or print it out. Your own valid ID is the only government-issued document required at security.

For international flights, bring the minor's passport and any required travel documents for the destination country (visas, health certificates, or entry forms). Check the embassy or consulate website of your destination country for their specific requirements—these vary widely and are separate from U.S. departure rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my 16-year-old fly alone without ID?

No. A minor traveling alone still cannot pass through TSA security without an adult present. The TSA does not allow unaccompanied minors through checkpoints, regardless of age or ID status. Airlines have their own unaccompanied minor programs for older children, but these require the airline's approval and supervision—not TSA ID rules.

What if my child's name on the ticket does not match their birth certificate?

Contact the airline when ready to correct the name on the ticket. The name must match the birth certificate or passport. The TSA will not stop you at security, but the airline may refuse to let your child board if the names do not match.

Do I need a notarized letter if my child travels with their grandparent?

TSA does not require it, but some airlines do. Call your airline before booking to ask their policy. If they require a letter, it should state that you consent to the trip and authorize the grandparent to make decisions for the child during travel. Have it notarized at a bank, post office, or notary public.

Can my child use a school ID or passport card instead of a real ID?

For domestic flights, your child does not need any ID at all. For international flights, a passport card (the small wallet-sized version) works for travel to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean countries, but a full passport is required for most other destinations. Check your destination country's entry requirements.

What happens if we show up at the airport without the documents the airline asked for?

You may be denied boarding. If the airline's policy requires a birth certificate or consent letter and you do not have it, they can refuse to let your child on the flight. Bring whatever documents the airline specified when you booked, even if TSA does not require them.