Navigating airport security can be stressful, especially when it comes to identification. A common question many travelers have is: “Do I need a passport to travel domestically within the United States?” The answer depends on a few factors, including the date, your age, and the type of identification you have. Let’s break down the current requirements.
REAL ID: The Standard for Domestic Flights
As of May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. The REAL ID Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits federal agencies from accepting for certain purposes driver’s licenses and identification cards from states not meeting these standards.
Real ID card example
If you’re unsure whether your current state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant, check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. Look for a star marking on your license; this indicates REAL ID compliance.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
While a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license is a common form of identification, it’s not the only one accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Other acceptable forms of ID include:
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- Permanent resident card
- Military ID
- And more (see the TSA website for a complete list)
Using a passport, even for domestic travel, can streamline the process if you’re unsure about your state-issued ID’s compliance.
Expired Identification
TSA has been known to accept expired IDs up to a year after the expiration date, but this policy is subject to change. The safest bet is to always travel with a valid, unexpired form of identification. Always check the TSA’s official website for the most current policies.
TSA checkpoint at an airport
Children and ID Requirements
TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, airlines may have their own specific requirements for minors, so it’s always a good idea to check with the airline directly before your flight.
What If You Don’t Have Acceptable ID?
It happens: you arrive at the airport and realize you’ve lost your ID, it’s been stolen, or you simply forgot it. In these situations, you may still be allowed to fly. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which could include providing information like your name and current address.
If your identity can be verified, you’ll be allowed to proceed through security, although you may be subject to additional screening. Keep in mind that if you choose not to provide acceptable identification, decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. To allow ample time for potential verification, TSA recommends arriving at least three hours before your scheduled flight if you do not have acceptable identification.
Names and Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
TSA is fairly lenient when it comes to suffixes (e.g., Jr., Sr., III) on boarding passes and IDs. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there’s a suffix on your boarding pass but not on your ID, or vice versa, it’s considered an acceptable variation. The key is that the core name information matches.
Key Takeaways
So, do you need a passport to travel domestically? Not necessarily, but having one can simplify the process. A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or one of the other acceptable forms of identification is typically sufficient. Always ensure your ID is valid and unexpired, and if you’re unsure, check with the TSA or your airline for the most up-to-date requirements.
