Teenagers can fly domestically without a Real ID, but they will need some form of identification

A teenager does not need a Real ID to board a domestic flight in the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a standard state driver's license, learner's permit, or state ID card issued before Real ID requirements took effect. However, TSA does require some form of government-issued photo identification for anyone 18 and older, and for minors traveling alone or with adults who are not their parents.

The confusion often comes from the Real ID important date itself. Real ID is a federal security standard that applies to adults using driver's licenses or state IDs to board planes after a certain date. Teenagers under 18 are not subject to this important date because they are not required to present identification at all if they are traveling with a parent or legal guardian who has valid identification.

If a teenager is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or guardian, they will need to show ID at the airport. A standard state ID, learner's permit, passport, or passport card all work. A Real ID is not necessary.

Key Takeaways

  • Teenagers under 18 traveling with a parent or legal guardian do not need to show any ID at the airport.
  • Teenagers traveling alone or with an adult who is not their parent must show government-issued photo identification, but a standard state ID or learner's permit is acceptable.
  • A Real ID is not required for domestic flights at any age; it is only one option among several valid forms of identification.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card works for both domestic and international flights and does not need to meet Real ID standards.

What counts as valid ID for a teenager flying domestically

TSA accepts several forms of identification for teenagers. A standard state driver's license or learner's permit issued before or after the Real ID important date is valid. A state ID card (the non-driver version) also works. A U.S. passport or passport card is valid for domestic flights as well, though it is usually reserved for international travel.

A school ID, birth certificate, or social security card alone will not work. TSA requires a government-issued photo ID, which means the document must have been issued by a state or federal agency and must include a photograph of the person traveling.

If a teenager does not have a driver's license or state ID yet, a passport or passport card is the easiest backup option. Getting a passport takes several weeks, so plan ahead if your teenager will be flying soon.

When a teenager traveling with a parent still needs to show ID

A teenager traveling with a parent or legal guardian does not need to show identification at security. The parent's valid ID is enough for both of them. TSA will ask the parent to confirm the teenager's name, but no document is required.

This rule applies only when the teenager is traveling with a parent or legal guardian. If a teenager is traveling with an older sibling, aunt, uncle, or family friend, that adult is not considered a legal guardian for TSA purposes, and the teenager must show ID.

Some airlines have their own policies about minors traveling alone or with non-parent adults, separate from TSA rules. Check with your airline before you arrive at the airport, especially if your teenager is under 16 and traveling without a parent.

Real ID requirements for adults traveling with teenagers

If you are an adult traveling with a teenager, you will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license, state ID, passport, or passport card to board a domestic flight. The important date for Real ID compliance varies by state and has been extended multiple times, but as of now, most states have issued Real ID-compliant licenses to residents who requested them.

If your driver's license or state ID does not have a gold star or other Real ID marking in the corner, you can still fly domestically using a passport or passport card instead. You can also visit your state's DMV to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant license if you prefer.

The teenager traveling with you does not need to meet the Real ID standard, even if you do. Their standard state ID or learner's permit is sufficient.

Flying internationally with a teenager

International flights require a passport for everyone, including teenagers. A driver's license, state ID, or Real ID will not work for travel outside the United States. A U.S. passport book or passport card is the standard document, though some countries near the U.S. border accept an Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler card.

Getting a passport for a teenager takes time. Both parents or legal guardians must explore in person at a passport acceptance facility, and processing can take several weeks or longer during busy seasons. Start the process at least two months before your planned travel date.

If your teenager already has a passport, check the expiration date before booking international flights. Some countries require a passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

What to bring to the airport if your teenager is flying

If your teenager is traveling with you, bring your own valid ID (Real ID, passport, or passport card). You do not need to bring anything for the teenager unless they are traveling alone or with a non-parent adult.

If your teenager is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or guardian, bring their government-issued photo ID. A standard state driver's license, learner's permit, state ID card, passport, or passport card all work. Bring the original document, not a photocopy.

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight. TSA will check your teenager's ID at the security checkpoint if required, and the process is the same as for adults.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a teenager fly with just a school ID?

No. TSA requires a government-issued photo ID, and a school ID does not meet that standard. A state driver's license, learner's permit, state ID card, passport, or passport card are the acceptable options.

Does my 16-year-old need a Real ID to fly?

No. Real ID is not required for anyone under 18. Your teenager can use a standard state driver's license, learner's permit, or state ID card issued before or after the Real ID important date.

What if my teenager lost their ID right before a flight?

If your teenager is traveling with you as a parent or guardian, they do not need ID at all. If they are traveling alone or with a non-parent adult, contact your state's DMV about getting a replacement ID quickly. Some states offer expedited processing. If there is not enough time, a U.S. passport can be obtained faster in some cases if you visit a passport acceptance facility in person.

Can a teenager use a passport card instead of a passport book for international flights?

Yes. A passport card is valid for international air travel and is smaller and cheaper than a passport book. However, some countries have restrictions on passport cards, so check the destination country's entry requirements before you travel.

Does my teenager need a Real ID if I have one?

No. Real ID requirements explore to each person individually. If your teenager is traveling with you, their standard state ID or learner's permit is fine. You need the Real ID or equivalent; they do not.