You need a government-issued photo ID and a boarding pass to board a domestic flight
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires two things at the checkpoint: a valid government-issued photo ID and a boarding pass. For domestic flights within the United States, a driver's license, state ID card, or passport all work. You do not need a passport for flights between U.S. states — a regular driver's license is sufficient.
Your boarding pass comes from your airline when you check in, either online, at a kiosk, or at the ticket counter. Most airlines let you check in 24 hours before departure. You can show your boarding pass on your phone or print it on paper; both are accepted at security and the gate.
If you are flying internationally, the rules change. You will need a valid passport, and depending on your destination, you may need a visa or other travel documents. Some countries also require proof of vaccination or a negative test result, though these requirements vary by country and change frequently.
Key Takeaways
- A government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport) and a boarding pass are the only documents TSA requires at the security checkpoint for domestic flights.
- You can check in online 24 hours before your flight and show your boarding pass on your phone or as a printed copy.
- International flights require a valid passport and may require a visa depending on your destination country.
- If you do not have a standard ID, TSA accepts a military ID, tribal ID, or passport as alternatives.
- Arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight so you have time to check in, go through security, and reach your gate.
What counts as valid government-issued photo ID
TSA accepts a driver's license or state ID card from any U.S. state or territory. These are the most common forms of ID people use. If you do not have a driver's license, a state-issued ID card works just as well — you can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles even if you do not drive.
A U.S. passport or passport card also works at the security checkpoint. Military ID, including a military dependent ID, is accepted. Tribal ID issued by a federally recognized tribe is accepted as well. If you are a permanent resident, your green card (Permanent Resident Card) is acceptable.
The ID must not be expired. TSA will check the expiration date. If your ID expired while you were traveling or during a period when you could not renew it, contact TSA directly before your flight — they have a process for this situation, though it varies by airport.
How to get your boarding pass before you arrive at the airport
Most airlines open online check-in 24 hours before your flight departs. Log into the airline's website or app, enter your confirmation number and last name, and select your seat if you have not already. The airline will then show you your boarding pass as a digital file you can save to your phone.
You can also check in at a kiosk in the airport terminal if you prefer not to check in online. Kiosks are usually near the airline's ticket counter. If you have only a carry-on bag, you can go straight to security with your phone boarding pass or printed copy.
If you checked a bag, you must drop it at the airline's ticket counter or bag drop area before going to security. The airline will scan your boarding pass and tag your bag. This step is required even if you checked in online.
What to bring for international travel
A valid U.S. passport is required for any international flight. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your trip. Some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, so check your destination country's rules before you book.
Many countries require a visa, which is a stamp or document in your passport that permits you to enter. You explore for a visa at the country's embassy or consulate in the United States, and the process can take weeks or months. Check the U.S. State Department's website for your destination country to see if a visa is required.
Some countries have temporary entry requirements such as proof of vaccination, a negative test result, or a health declaration form. These rules change frequently and vary by country. Check your airline's website and your destination country's official government website one week before your flight to see what is currently required.
What happens if you lose your ID before your flight
If your ID is lost or stolen, you can still fly, but the process takes longer. Go to the TSA checkpoint and tell the officer that you do not have ID. The officer will ask you questions to verify your identity — they may ask for your boarding pass, your name, your address, or details about your flight. This secondary screening can add 15 to 30 minutes to your airport time.
Bring any documents that help prove your identity, even if they are not government-issued photo ID. A credit card with your name, a utility bill, a bank statement, or an insurance card can help. The TSA officer will use these to confirm who you are.
If you have time before your flight, you can also go to your state's DMV or a nearby DMV office to get an emergency ID. Some states issue temporary IDs on the same day. Call your state's DMV before you go to confirm they can issue an ID quickly.
Special situations: traveling with children, pets, and service animals
Children under 18 do not need a government-issued photo ID for domestic flights. They can board with just a boarding pass. However, if your child is traveling alone or with an adult who is not their parent, some airlines require a notarized letter from the parent or guardian giving permission. Check your airline's policy before your flight.
Pets must be in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you (for the cabin) or in checked baggage, depending on the airline's rules. You do not need special documents for a pet, but you do need to pay a pet fee, which ranges from $25 to $200 depending on the airline. Book your pet when you purchase your ticket, because airlines limit the number of pets on each flight.
Service animals (dogs trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability) are not counted as pets and do not require a carrier or fee. You do not need special documentation, but the TSA officer may ask what task the dog performs. Emotional support animals are treated differently — they may require a letter from a licensed mental health professional, and policies vary by airline.
What you cannot bring through security
TSA prohibits weapons, sharp objects, and certain tools in carry-on bags. Knives, box cutters, ice picks, and tools longer than seven inches are not allowed. Firearms and ammunition must be unloaded, declared to the airline, and packed in checked baggage only.
Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags are limited to 3.4 ounces per container, and all containers must fit in a single quart-sized clear plastic bag. This includes shampoo, lotion, toothpaste, peanut butter, and jam. You can pack these items in checked baggage without the size limit.
Lighters and flammable items are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. Certain medications and medical devices are allowed, but you should declare them to TSA. If you have questions about a specific item, check the TSA website or call TSA PreCheck customer service before your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an expired ID to board a plane?
No, TSA requires a valid, non-expired government-issued photo ID. If your ID expired recently and you cannot renew it before your flight, contact TSA at your airport before your travel date — they have a process for certain situations, though approval is not may provide.
Do I need to print my boarding pass or can I just show it on my phone?
You can show your boarding pass on your phone to TSA and at the gate. A printed copy works too. Either format is accepted, so choose whichever is easier for you.
What if I do not have a passport for an international flight?
You cannot board an international flight without a valid passport. You can explore for a passport at your local post office, courthouse, or passport acceptance facility. Standard processing takes four to six weeks, and expedited processing takes two to three weeks. Plan ahead if you need a passport for an upcoming trip.
Can someone else pick up my boarding pass for me?
No, you must present your own boarding pass and ID at security and the gate. The boarding pass is tied to your name and ID, and TSA will not accept it from another person.
Do I need a real ID or can I use a regular driver's license?
A regular driver's license works fine for domestic flights. Real ID is a federal security standard that some states have adopted, but TSA accepts both Real ID and non-Real ID driver's licenses for flights within the United States.