What Documents You Need to Fly in the United States

The Documents You Need Before You Board

You need a government-issued photo ID to fly domestically in the United States. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) checks this at the security checkpoint before you reach your gate.

For international flights, you need a passport. Some countries also require a visa, which is a separate document your passport must have before you board. A few destinations near the US—Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean islands—accept a passport card or an enhanced driver's license instead, but a full passport is the safest choice and works everywhere.

You do not need to print your boarding pass anymore. Most airlines let you show it on your phone at security and at the gate. If your phone dies or you prefer paper, you can print it at home, at an airport kiosk, or ask the airline desk to print one for you.

Key Takeaways

A valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) is required for all domestic flights.
International flights require a passport, and some countries require a visa stamped in your passport before you travel.
Your boarding pass can be on your phone or printed; the airline will tell you which format they prefer when you check in.
If your ID is expired, lost, or stolen, contact your state's DMV or passport office at least two weeks before your flight.
Minors traveling alone may need a notarized letter from a parent or guardian, depending on the airline's policy.

What Counts as Valid ID for Domestic Flights

The TSA accepts a driver's license, state ID card, passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. The ID must be current or expired no more than five years ago. If your ID expired more than five years ago, the TSA will not accept it, and you will not be allowed through security.

Real ID is a federal standard that some states have adopted. Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will require a Real ID–compliant driver's license or state ID for domestic flights. If your state has not issued you a Real ID yet, a passport will still work. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your current ID is Real ID–compliant; most states show a gold star or star outline in the top right corner of the card if it is.

If you do not have a Real ID and your state has not issued one yet, bring your passport instead. This avoids any confusion at security. If your ID is lost or stolen, go to your state's DMV office in person with proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization papers, or passport) and proof of residency (utility bill or lease). A replacement usually takes one to two weeks.

Passport and Visa Requirements for International Travel

A passport is a booklet issued by the US State Department that proves your citizenship. You need one for any flight that leaves the United States, even if you are returning to the US. A passport card is smaller and cheaper but only works for land and sea travel to Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean—not for flights.

A visa is a stamp or sticker in your passport that a foreign country issues to allow you to enter. Not all countries require one. Canada, Mexico, the UK, most of Europe, Australia, and Japan do not require a US citizen to have a visa for short visits. Other countries do—China, India, Russia, Brazil, and Egypt are common examples. Check the State Department's travel advisory website for the country you are visiting; it will list visa requirements clearly.

Getting a passport takes four to six weeks through the routine service, or one to two weeks through expedited service (which costs extra). If you need one urgently, some passport acceptance agencies offer same-day or next-day service, but you must explore in person. Start the process at least two months before your flight if possible.

Documents for Minors Traveling Alone or With One Parent

A minor traveling alone or with only one parent may need a notarized letter from the absent parent or guardian. This rule varies by airline and destination country. Some airlines require it; others do not. Call your airline before your flight to ask whether they need this letter.

If you do need a notarized letter, it should state that the absent parent or guardian gives permission for the minor to travel. You can write this yourself, have a lawyer draft it, or use a template from your airline's website. A notary public (usually found at banks, UPS stores, or your county courthouse) will witness your signature and stamp the letter. This costs five to fifteen dollars and takes a few minutes.

For international travel with a minor, bring the minor's birth certificate as well as their passport. Some countries ask to see proof that both parents consent to the child leaving the country, especially if the child has a different last name from one parent.

What to Do If Your Documents Are Lost or Expired

If your ID is expired, you can still fly domestically if it expired within the last five years. Check the expiration date on the back. If it expired more than five years ago, you cannot use it—go to your state's DMV and request a replacement. Bring proof of citizenship and residency. A replacement usually takes one to three weeks.

If your passport is expired, you cannot fly internationally. You must renew it before your trip. Renewal by mail takes four to six weeks; in-person renewal at a passport acceptance agency takes one to two weeks with expedited service. If you are leaving in less than two weeks, call your nearest passport agency to ask about emergency same-day service.

If your ID or passport is lost or stolen, report it to the police and get a report number. Then go to your state's DMV (for ID) or a passport acceptance agency (for passport) with the police report, proof of citizenship, and proof of residency. Replacement timelines are the same as above. If your flight is in fewer than two weeks and you cannot get a replacement in time, contact your airline about rebooking.

Boarding Passes and Check-In Documents

Your boarding pass shows your name, flight number, seat assignment, and barcode. You get it when you check in, either online, at an airport kiosk, or at the airline desk. Most airlines let you check in online 24 hours before your flight. You can then show your boarding pass on your phone at security and at the gate, or print it at home.

If you are checking a bag, the airline will give you a baggage tag with a barcode. Keep this receipt until you collect your bag at your destination. If your bag is lost, the airline will use this number to track it.

For international flights, some countries require proof of onward travel—a return flight or a flight to a third country—to prove you are not staying permanently. A few also require proof of funds or a hotel reservation. Check the State Department's travel advisory for your destination to see what is needed.

Real ID Compliance and State-by-State Differences

Real ID is a federal security standard that requires driver's licenses and state IDs to have certain security features. Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will not accept a non-compliant ID for domestic flights. However, a passport will always work, even if it is not Real ID–compliant.

Most states have already issued Real ID–compliant licenses. Check your state's DMV website to see the status. If your state is behind, you can still fly with a passport. If you want a Real ID license, go to your DMV in person with proof of citizenship, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The process takes one visit and costs the same as a regular renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly with an expired ID if it expired less than five years ago?

Yes, for domestic flights only. The TSA accepts IDs expired within the last five years. For international flights, you need a valid passport with no expiration date in the past. Check your passport's expiration date on the back cover.

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

You can use your phone. Most airlines accept a digital boarding pass shown on your phone at security and the gate. If your phone battery dies, you can print a copy at an airport kiosk or ask the airline desk. Having a backup is a good idea.

What if I don't have a Real ID yet and my flight is soon?

Bring your passport instead. A passport works for domestic flights and does not need to be Real ID–compliant. If you do not have a passport either, go to your DMV when ready with proof of citizenship and residency to get an expedited ID replacement.

Do I need a visa for every country I visit?

No. Many countries do not require a US citizen to have a visa for short visits, including Canada, Mexico, the UK, most of Europe, Australia, and Japan. Check the State Department's travel advisory website for your specific destination to see what is required.

What documents do I need if I'm traveling with a child and the other parent is not coming?

Call your airline before your flight. Some require a notarized letter from the absent parent giving permission for the child to travel; others do not. If one is required, you can write it yourself and have a notary public stamp it for five to fifteen dollars.

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.