What ID You Need to Fly in the United States

You need a government-issued photo ID to fly domestically in the United States

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers 18 and older to show a valid government-issued photo ID at airport security. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work. If you do not have one of these, you can still board a domestic flight, but TSA will conduct additional screening that takes longer and may involve questions about your identity and travel plans.

Children under 18 do not need an ID to fly domestically. A parent or guardian traveling with them is enough. If a minor is traveling alone or with someone who is not a parent or legal guardian, some airlines require a notarized letter of consent from the parent, but this is an airline policy, not a TSA requirement.

International flights have different rules. You must have a valid passport to leave and re-enter the United States, regardless of age. Some destinations also require a visa, which is separate from your passport. A passport card or passport book both work for air travel.

Key Takeaways

Domestic flights require a government-issued photo ID for adults, but a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all satisfy this requirement.
If you arrive at security without an ID, TSA will not turn you away — they will perform additional screening that typically adds 15 to 30 minutes to your checkpoint time.
Children under 18 flying domestically do not need an ID if a parent or guardian is present.
International flights require a valid U.S. passport for all passengers, regardless of age.
Some countries require a visa in addition to your passport; check your destination's entry requirements before you book.

What counts as acceptable ID for domestic flights

TSA accepts a driver's license from any U.S. state or territory as valid ID. It does not have to be a "REAL ID" compliant license — the older standard licenses work fine for domestic air travel. A state-issued ID card (sometimes called a non-driver ID) is also acceptable and is useful if you do not drive.

A U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights as well. Military ID, tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe, and permanent resident cards (green cards) are all acceptable. If you are a non-U.S. citizen, a foreign passport paired with a valid U.S. visa is sufficient for domestic travel.

Expired IDs are generally not accepted, though TSA has occasionally made exceptions during national emergencies. Your ID should be current or very recently expired — if it expired more than a year ago, bring a backup document like a birth certificate or Social Security card along with a secondary ID (such as a credit card with your name on it) to speed up the additional screening process.

Flying without an ID: what actually happens

If you arrive at the security checkpoint without an ID, TSA will not refuse you entry to the airport or the flight. Instead, a TSA officer will take you to a separate area and ask you questions to verify your identity. They may ask for your name, date of birth, address, and details about your travel plans. This process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes longer than normal screening.

Bring something with your name on it if you do not have a photo ID — a credit card, bank statement, utility bill, or even a library card can help. The officer will use these documents plus your answers to questions to confirm who you are. If you cannot verify your identity to the officer's satisfaction, you will not be allowed to board that flight, but you can try again with additional documentation.

This secondary screening is more common than many travelers realize. It happens regularly to people whose IDs are lost, expired, or left at home. It is not a legal violation or a mark against you — it is straightforward a longer security process.

REAL ID requirements and what they mean for flying

Starting in May 2025, TSA will require all domestic air travelers to present either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport. A REAL ID is a driver's license or state ID that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Most states have already issued REAL ID licenses, but some people still carry older licenses that do not meet the standard.

You can check whether your license is REAL ID compliant by looking for a small star or marking in the upper right corner of your license. If your license does not have this marking, you can still fly domestically until May 2025 by bringing a passport instead. After that date, you will need either a REAL ID license, a passport, a passport card, or military ID.

Getting a REAL ID license is straightforward. Visit your state's DMV office with your current ID, proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport), and proof of your current address (utility bill or lease). The process typically costs the same as renewing a regular license and takes a few weeks. Some states allow you to renew online or by mail if your current license is not expired.

International travel and passport requirements

A U.S. passport is required to fly internationally and to re-enter the United States. You cannot board an international flight with just a driver's license, even if you are flying to Canada or Mexico. A passport book (the traditional booklet) or passport card (a wallet-sized card) both work for air travel, though the card cannot be used for land or sea border crossings.

explore for a passport takes 6 to 8 weeks for a standard process and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service. You will need your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID, and a completed process form (DS-11 for a new passport or DS-82 for a renewal). You must explore in person at a passport acceptance facility, which includes post offices, libraries, and some DMV offices.

Some countries also require a visa, which is a separate document from your passport. A visa is permission from that country to enter and stay for a specific purpose and length of time. Check the U.S. State Department website for your destination country to see whether you need a visa. Processing times for visas vary widely — some take a few days, others take several weeks or months.

What to do if your ID is lost or stolen before your flight

If your ID is lost or stolen close to your flight, you have several options. You can fly with secondary documents and go through the longer TSA screening process described above. Bring any document with your name on it — a credit card, bank statement, utility bill, or insurance card — along with answers to identity verification questions.

You can also get an emergency replacement ID from your state's DMV. Many states offer expedited or same-day ID replacement if you report your ID lost or stolen. Call your state DMV ahead of time to confirm they can issue a replacement quickly and what documents you need to bring. Some states allow you to get a temporary ID that is valid for a few weeks while you wait for the permanent one.

If you are flying internationally and your passport is lost or stolen, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can issue an emergency passport that is valid for a limited time — usually enough to get you home. This process can take a few hours to a few days depending on where you are and how busy the embassy is.

TSA PreCheck and ID requirements

TSA PreCheck is a program that allows you to go through a faster security line at the airport. You still need to show a valid ID — the same government-issued photo ID required for regular screening. TSA PreCheck does not change the ID requirement; it only speeds up the screening process by allowing you to keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on and leave your laptop and liquids in your bag.

To enroll in TSA PreCheck, you must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The program costs $78 to $85 for five years. You will need to provide your ID, fingerprints, and background information during enrollment. TSA PreCheck is useful if you fly more than once or twice a year, but it is not necessary to fly domestically.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, a passport card is valid for air travel to most countries. However, it cannot be used for land or sea border crossings — only flights. If you plan to drive to Canada or Mexico, you need a passport book or a NEXUS card instead.

What if I have a foreign passport but no U.S. visa?

You cannot board a flight to the United States without a valid U.S. visa (unless you are from a visa-waiver country and have an ESTA). If you are a non-U.S. citizen living in the United States, your foreign passport and valid U.S. visa or green card are sufficient for domestic flights.

Do I need to show my ID at the gate as well as at security?

Yes. You will show your ID at the security checkpoint and again at the gate before boarding. The gate agent will scan your boarding pass and may ask to see your ID to confirm it matches your ticket.

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

No. School IDs and work IDs are not government-issued and are not accepted by TSA. You need a driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID, or similar government-issued photo ID.

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

You will likely be stopped at security or the gate. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, bring documentation of the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your ID. If the names straightforward do not match due to a typo on your ticket, contact the airline when ready to correct it before you arrive at the airport.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.