Traveling by air within the United States requires passengers to present acceptable identification at airport security checkpoints. Understanding what forms of ID are valid and what to do if you encounter ID issues is crucial for a smooth travel experience. This guide provides essential information about Travel Ids to help you prepare for your next flight.
What is REAL ID?
Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. REAL ID is a national standard for identification that enhances security and was mandated by the REAL ID Act of 2005. To determine if your current ID is REAL ID compliant, look for a star symbol, often gold or black, printed on your card. If you are unsure, it’s best to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles or visit the DHS website on REAL ID for more information.
Acceptable Forms of Travel Identification
While a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or state-issued enhanced driver’s license will be mandatory for domestic flights from May 7, 2025, TSA accepts a variety of other forms of identification. These include:
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- Permanent resident card
- Driver’s license or state-issued ID card
- Enhanced Driver’s License
- Airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)
- Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Provincial driver’s license or Indian Status Card (Canada)
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC®)
It’s important to note that items such as weapon permits and temporary driver’s licenses are not acceptable forms of identification for air travel. Always ensure your ID is on the list of TSA-approved documents before heading to the airport.
What if Your ID is Expired?
TSA has a temporary policy regarding expired IDs. Currently, they accept expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date, provided they are on the list of acceptable forms of identification. This includes driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs. However, it’s always recommended to travel with a valid, unexpired ID to avoid any potential issues. Keep in mind that this policy is subject to change, so it’s best to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date information before your travel date.
Identification for Children
For families traveling with children, TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, airlines may have their own specific requirements for travelers under 18, especially for unaccompanied minors. It’s always a good idea to contact your airline directly to inquire about their policies regarding identification for children.
Traveling Without Acceptable Identification
Life happens, and sometimes you might arrive at the airport without your acceptable travel ID – perhaps it’s lost, stolen, or simply forgotten. In such cases, you may still be permitted to fly. TSA officers have procedures in place to verify your identity.
If you find yourself without acceptable identification, inform the TSA officer. They may ask you to complete an identity verification process. This typically involves providing personal information such as your name and current address to help confirm your identity. If your identity can be verified, you will be allowed to proceed through the security checkpoint, though you may be subject to additional screening measures.
However, it’s important to understand that if you choose not to provide identification, refuse to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to pass through security.
To allow ample time for potential identity verification procedures, TSA advises travelers without acceptable identification to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flight departure time.
Name Variations on IDs and Boarding Passes
TSA understands that minor discrepancies can occur between the name on your boarding pass and your travel ID. Variations in suffixes (like Jr., Sr., III) are acceptable. If your boarding pass includes a suffix and your ID does not, or vice versa, this is considered an acceptable variation and should not cause issues at security. The key is that the core name should match.
By understanding the requirements for travel IDs and being prepared, you can navigate airport security with greater ease and confidence, ensuring a smoother start to your journey. Always refer to the official TSA website for the most current guidelines and any updates before your travel date.
