The documents you must have before you board

To fly within the United States, you need a government-issued photo ID or a passport. A driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) checks this at the security checkpoint before you reach your gate. Without it, you will not pass through security, and the airline will not let you board.

If you are flying internationally, you must have a passport. A driver's license is not enough. Some countries also require a visa, which is a separate document you obtain from that country's embassy or consulate before you travel. Check the entry requirements for your destination country at least two months before your flight, because visa processing can take weeks.

Children under 18 flying domestically do not need their own ID if they are traveling with an adult. The adult's ID covers the group. However, if a child is traveling alone or with someone other than a parent or legal guardian, some airlines require a notarized letter of consent from the parent or guardian.

Key Takeaways

  • A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) is required for all domestic flights and checked at the TSA security checkpoint.
  • International flights require a valid passport, and many countries also require a visa obtained before you travel.
  • Your airline ticket or boarding pass — digital or printed — must match the name on your ID exactly.
  • Arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight to allow time for check-in and security.
  • Medications, medical devices, and mobility aids have specific rules; inform TSA officers if you are carrying them.

Your boarding pass and ticket information

Your airline ticket is proof you have paid for your seat. You receive it when you book your flight, usually by email. You can show it on your phone as a digital boarding pass, or you can print it. The name on your ticket must match your ID exactly — if your ID says "Robert" but your ticket says "Bob," you will be stopped at the gate.

Most airlines let you check in online 24 hours before your flight. During check-in, you receive a boarding pass with a barcode and your gate number (though the gate may change closer to departure). If you are checking luggage, you also receive baggage tags. Keep your boarding pass until you leave the airport, because you will scan it again at the gate before boarding the plane.

Luggage and what you can bring on the plane

You are allowed one carry-on bag (a small suitcase or backpack that fits in the overhead bin) and one personal item (a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) at no extra cost. If you want to bring a full-size suitcase into the cabin, most airlines charge a fee — usually $35 to $45 for the first checked bag on a domestic flight. International flights often include one free checked bag, but budget airlines may charge for all bags.

The TSA has strict rules about liquids in carry-on bags: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller, and all containers must fit in a single quart-size clear plastic bag. This includes shampoo, lotion, toothpaste, peanut butter, and yogurt. You can pack larger containers in checked luggage. Medications and medical liquids (like insulin) are exempt from the 3.4-ounce limit if you declare them to TSA officers.

Weapons, including pocket knives and box cutters, are not allowed in carry-on bags. Some items like tools, sports equipment, and certain tools must go in checked luggage. Check your airline's website for their specific baggage policy, because fees and size limits vary.

Money and payment methods for airport purchases

Bring a credit card, debit card, or cash for food, drinks, and other purchases at the airport and on the plane. Most U.S. airports and airlines accept all major credit cards and debit cards. Some smaller airports or regional airlines may have limited payment options, so cash is a backup. ATMs are available in most airports if you need to withdraw cash.

If you are flying internationally, you may want to notify your bank before you travel so they do not block your card for suspicious activity. Some foreign airports and airlines may not accept all U.S. cards, so having both a credit card and some cash in the local currency (or U.S. dollars) is wise.

Special items: medications, medical devices, and mobility aids

Medications in their original labeled containers are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags. You do not need a prescription copy, but having one is helpful if TSA has questions. Inhalers, EpiPens, and other emergency medications should go in your carry-on so you have them during the flight.

Medical devices like CPAP machines, insulin pumps, and oxygen concentrators are allowed. Inform TSA officers at security that you are carrying medical equipment. They may need to inspect it, but you will not have to remove it from your bag or power it down. Mobility aids — wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches — are allowed and do not count toward your baggage limit.

If you are traveling with a service animal, it must be trained to perform a task for a person with a disability. Emotional support animals and pets are not the same as service animals and have different rules. Service animals do not need a ticket and can travel in the cabin with you. Pets require a ticket or fee and usually must stay in a carrier under the seat in front of you.

Documents for international travel beyond your passport

Some countries require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within a certain number of days before arrival. Requirements change, so check the embassy website or the U.S. State Department website for your destination country at least one month before you travel.

If you are traveling with a child who is not your biological child, bring a notarized letter from the child's parent or legal guardian giving you permission to travel with them. This prevents child abduction and is required by some countries and airlines.

Certain countries require proof of onward travel — a return ticket or a ticket to a third country — to show you do not plan to stay permanently. A few countries also require proof of funds (a bank statement or credit card) to show you can support yourself during your stay. Check your destination's entry requirements well in advance.

What to expect at the airport and security checkpoint

Arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. This gives you time to check in, check bags, and pass through security without rushing. During security, you will remove your shoes, belt, and jacket, and place them in a bin along with your carry-on bag and personal item. Laptops and large electronics must come out of your bag.

TSA officers will scan your bags with X-ray machines and may do a physical pat-down if the scanner flags something. If you have a medical device, prosthetic, or other item you cannot remove, tell the officer before the screening begins. You have the right to request a same-gender officer for a pat-down.

After security, you will have access to your gate area, restaurants, and shops. Your boarding pass shows your gate number, but gates can change, so check the airport monitors or your airline's app before heading to the gate. Boarding usually begins 30 to 45 minutes before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired driver's license to fly?

No. Your ID must be valid and not expired. If your driver's license has expired, get a state ID or passport before your flight. Renewal times vary by state, so start the process at least six weeks ahead.

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

Contact your airline when ready and ask them to correct the ticket. Most airlines can change the name for free if you catch it before check-in. After check-in, changes may cost a fee or require rebooking. The name must match exactly — including middle names, suffixes, and spelling.

Do I need to print my boarding pass or can I use my phone?

A digital boarding pass on your phone works fine. Most airlines prefer it. If your phone dies or you lose signal, you can print a boarding pass at the airport kiosk or ticket counter, though this may take extra time. Having a backup screenshot or printed copy is a good idea.

Can I bring a full-size suitcase as a carry-on?

It depends on the airline. Most airlines have size limits for carry-on bags (usually around 22 by 14 by 9 inches). Check your airline's website before packing. If your bag is too large, you will have to check it at the gate, and you may be charged a fee.

What happens if I forget my ID at home?

You can still fly, but TSA will do additional screening, which takes longer. You will need to answer security questions and may be patted down. Bring other documents like a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card to help verify your identity. Plan to arrive even earlier than usual.