Minors do not need Real ID for most everyday activities, but the rules depend on what they are doing and their age

Real ID is a federal security standard for driver's licenses and ID cards. It became mandatory for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings on May 7, 2025. However, minors—people under 18—are generally exempt from this requirement. A minor can board a domestic flight or enter a federal courthouse with a school ID, passport, or state ID card that does not meet Real ID standards.

The main exception is if a minor is traveling alone. If a child under 18 is flying without a parent or guardian, the airline may ask for additional identification beyond what Real ID requires. Each airline has its own policy, so calling ahead is wise if your child is traveling solo.

For most other situations—getting a job, opening a bank account, or entering a state government building—Real ID is not required at any age. A standard state ID or driver's license works fine.

Key Takeaways

  • Minors do not need Real ID to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings, even after the May 2025 important date.
  • A school ID, passport, or standard state ID card is sufficient for a minor traveling with a parent or guardian.
  • If a minor is traveling alone, the airline may have additional identification rules, so contact them before the trip.
  • Real ID is not required for minors in most everyday situations like school, work, or banking.
  • A parent or guardian accompanying a minor must have Real ID or an acceptable alternative to board a flight.

When a minor can fly without Real ID

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows minors to board domestic flights without Real ID. A child traveling with a parent or guardian can use a school ID, passport, state ID card, or even a birth certificate. The adult accompanying the child must have Real ID or an acceptable alternative—such as a passport, military ID, or state ID issued before Real ID standards took effect.

TSA agents at the security checkpoint will ask for identification from both the child and the adult. The adult's ID is what matters for federal compliance; the child's ID is mainly for verification purposes. If you are flying with a young child who has no ID at all, bring a birth certificate or passport to confirm their identity.

What happens if a minor travels alone

Airlines have different rules for unaccompanied minors, and these rules are separate from Real ID requirements. Most airlines allow children as young as 5 to fly alone on direct flights, but require them to be at least 8 for connecting flights. Some airlines set the minimum age at 12 or 13.

When a minor travels alone, the airline may ask for more identification than usual—sometimes a passport or state ID card. Call your airline before booking to learn their specific policy for unaccompanied minors and what ID they will accept. Real ID is not a requirement, but having a passport or state ID card makes the process smoother.

Getting a state ID or passport for a minor

If your minor child does not have a passport or state ID card, you can obtain one before traveling. A passport takes 4 to 6 weeks for routine processing through the State Department, or 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service (which costs extra). You explore in person at a passport acceptance facility, usually a post office or library, and bring the child's birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and a photo.

A state ID card is faster. You visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with the minor, bring proof of residency and identity (birth certificate or passport), and pay a small fee. Processing usually takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on your state. Neither a passport nor a state ID card needs to meet Real ID standards for a minor to use it for travel.

Real ID requirements for parents and guardians

If you are traveling with a minor, you must have Real ID or an acceptable alternative. Acceptable alternatives include a passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or a state ID card issued before your state's Real ID important date. Check your state's Real ID important date—some states have already complied, while others have until 2025 or later.

If you do not yet have Real ID, you can renew your driver's license or ID card at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Bring proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or current ID), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. The process takes a few weeks, so plan ahead if you are flying soon.

Federal buildings and minors

Minors do not need Real ID to enter federal buildings such as courthouses, Social Security offices, or federal agencies. A school ID, passport, or state ID card is acceptable. An adult accompanying a minor does need Real ID or an acceptable alternative, just as they would for air travel.

Some federal buildings have additional security rules beyond Real ID. For example, a courthouse may require you to pass through a metal detector or leave certain items outside. Call ahead to learn what to expect and what ID to bring.

What Real ID actually is and why it matters

Real ID is a set of security standards that driver's licenses and ID cards must meet. A Real ID-compliant card has a gold star or other marking in the upper right corner. The standards require states to verify a person's identity more thoroughly than they did before, check Social Security numbers, and confirm legal residency.

Real ID was created after the September 11 attacks to make it harder to board flights or enter federal buildings with fraudulent identification. It does not give you any new rights or benefits—it is straightforward a security check. If you already have a passport, you do not need Real ID, because a passport meets the same security standard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my 10-year-old fly with just a school ID?

Yes, if traveling with a parent or guardian who has Real ID or an acceptable alternative. TSA accepts school IDs for minors. The adult's ID is what matters for federal compliance.

What if my child's passport is expired?

An expired passport is still acceptable for TSA purposes if your child is traveling with an adult. However, if your child is traveling alone or internationally, you will need to renew it. Renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks for routine service.

Do I need Real ID if I am driving across state lines with my kids?

No. Real ID is required only for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Driving across state lines requires no special ID. Your current driver's license is fine.

What counts as proof of residency for a minor's state ID?

Most states accept a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or school enrollment letter in the parent's or guardian's name. Bring the minor's birth certificate or passport as proof of identity. Requirements vary by state, so check your state's DMV website first.

Can a minor use a birth certificate to fly?

Yes, if traveling with a parent or guardian. TSA accepts a birth certificate as identification for minors. The adult must have Real ID or an acceptable alternative.