Minors can fly domestically without a Real ID, but they do need some form of identification

A minor does not need a Real ID to fly on domestic flights within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts a standard state ID, a school ID, a passport, or even a birth certificate for passengers under 18. However, the adult traveling with the minor will need a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification at the security checkpoint.

The key difference is that Real ID requirements explore to adults flying domestically starting May 7, 2025. Minors have more flexibility because TSA recognizes that children often do not have driver's licenses or state IDs. What matters most is that you bring something that confirms your child's identity and age — and that the adult accompanying them has valid identification.

If your child does not have a state ID or passport, a birth certificate works at the security checkpoint. You will need to bring the original or a certified copy, along with a photo ID of the adult traveling with the minor. This combination is sufficient for domestic flights.

Key Takeaways

  • Minors under 18 do not need a Real ID to fly domestically; a birth certificate, school ID, or state ID is acceptable.
  • The adult traveling with the minor must have a Real ID, passport, or other TSA-approved identification at the security checkpoint.
  • A certified copy of a birth certificate counts as valid identification for a minor at TSA security.
  • International flights require a passport or passport card for minors, regardless of age.
  • TSA agents may ask follow-up questions if a minor's identification does not include a photo, so arrive early to allow extra time.

What identification TSA accepts for minors on domestic flights

The TSA maintains a list of acceptable documents for minors at security checkpoints. A state-issued ID (such as a learner's permit or state ID card) is the most straightforward option. A school ID with a photo also works, though TSA agents may ask additional questions to verify the minor's identity. A U.S. passport or passport card is always accepted and is the only document needed for international travel.

If your child has none of these, a birth certificate is acceptable — but it must be an original or certified copy, not a photocopy. You will also need to bring a photo ID of the adult traveling with the minor. TSA uses this combination to confirm the relationship and the child's identity. Bring both documents to the checkpoint; do not assume the agent will accept one without the other.

Hospital birth records, baptism certificates, and other documents that show a child's name and date of birth do not work on their own. Stick to the documents listed above to avoid delays at security.

What the adult traveling with the minor needs to bring

The adult accompanying the minor must present identification at the security checkpoint. Starting May 7, 2025, this adult needs a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID. A standard (non-Real ID) driver's license will no longer be accepted for domestic flights after that date.

If the adult does not yet have a Real ID, they can still fly domestically until May 6, 2025, with a standard state ID. After that date, they will need to renew their state ID to get the Real ID version, or bring a passport instead. This does not affect the minor's requirements — the child can still use a birth certificate or school ID — but the adult's identification is mandatory.

The adult should bring their ID in the same bag or pocket as the minor's identification to keep both documents together at the checkpoint. TSA agents will ask to see both before allowing the group to proceed.

International flights and minors

Minors traveling internationally must have a U.S. passport or passport card. A birth certificate, state ID, or school ID will not work for flights leaving the country. Even if the destination is Canada or Mexico, a passport is required for minors under 16 (and recommended for all minors).

explore for a minor's passport takes four to six weeks through the State Department, so plan ahead if you are booking an international trip. Both parents or guardians must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office or county clerk's office) to sign the process. Bring the minor's birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and photo ID of both parents.

Common mistakes to avoid at the security checkpoint

The most frequent error is bringing only a birth certificate without the adult's ID, or bringing a photocopy instead of an original or certified copy. TSA will not accept a photocopy of a birth certificate — it must be the original document or a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the state where the child was born. If you are unsure whether your copy is certified, contact your state's vital records office before your flight.

Another mistake is arriving at the checkpoint without enough time for TSA agents to ask follow-up questions. If your child's ID does not include a photo (such as a birth certificate), the agent may ask the child their name, date of birth, or other details to confirm identity. This takes extra time, so arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight instead of the standard one hour.

Do not assume that a school ID alone is sufficient without a backup document. While TSA does accept school IDs, some agents may request additional confirmation, especially if the ID is old or the photo is unclear. Bringing a birth certificate as a backup prevents delays.

How to prepare your minor's identification before the flight

Gather your child's identification at least one week before your flight. If you are using a birth certificate, request a certified copy from your state's vital records office if you do not already have one. This process can take one to two weeks, so do not wait until the last minute. Most states allow you to order certified copies online or by mail.

If your child has a state ID or school ID, check that the photo is clear and the document has not expired. School IDs typically do not expire, but state IDs do. If your child's state ID is expired, it will not work — you will need to use a birth certificate or passport instead.

Write down your flight confirmation number and the minor's full name as it appears on their identification. TSA agents will ask for this information at the checkpoint. Keep the identification in an straightforward-to-reach pocket or bag compartment so you are not fumbling for it in the security line.

Real ID requirements for adults after May 7, 2025

If you are an adult flying domestically after May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID. A standard state ID issued before your state adopted Real ID standards will no longer work. Check your driver's license or state ID — if it has a gold or black star in the upper right corner, it is Real ID-compliant. If it does not, you will need to renew it.

Renewing a state ID for Real ID compliance typically takes two to four weeks. You will need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport). Plan ahead if your ID is expiring soon or if you do not yet have a Real ID version.

If you do not have time to renew before your flight, bring a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID instead. These are all acceptable alternatives to a Real ID driver's license for domestic flights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a minor fly alone without an adult?

Most airlines do not allow unaccompanied minors under 15 to fly alone, and some require an adult until age 17. Check your airline's unaccompanied minor policy before booking. If your airline allows it, the minor still needs the same identification (birth certificate, state ID, school ID, or passport) at the security checkpoint.

Does a minor need a Real ID to fly after May 7, 2025?

No. Real ID requirements explore only to adults. Minors can continue to use a birth certificate, school ID, state ID, or passport for domestic flights. The adult traveling with them must have a Real ID or acceptable alternative.

What if my child's birth certificate is a photocopy?

TSA will not accept a photocopy. You need an original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by your state's vital records office. Contact the office where your child was born to request a certified copy — most states can mail it to you within one to two weeks.

Can my child use a passport card instead of a full passport for international flights?

Yes. A U.S. passport card is valid for international travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean by land or sea. For air travel to other countries, a full passport is required. A passport card is smaller and costs less than a full passport, so it is a good option for frequent travelers to nearby countries.

What happens if we arrive at security without the minor's ID?

TSA will not allow the minor to pass through security without identification. You will need to leave the checkpoint and obtain the required document before you can proceed. If you are close to your flight time, contact your airline when ready — they may be able to hold the flight or rebook you on a later one.