Planning a trip within the United States and wondering about ID requirements? A common question for travelers is, Do You Need A Passport To Travel Within The Us? The short answer is no, for U.S. citizens, you generally do not need a passport to fly domestically. However, understanding the specific identification requirements can ensure a smoother travel experience. This guide will clarify what you need to know about domestic travel and identification, ensuring you’re prepared for your next U.S. flight.
REAL ID and Domestic US Travel
Since the events of 9/11, security measures at airports have become increasingly stringent. The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards accepted by federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Beginning 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 identification to fly within the United States.
A sample of a REAL ID compliant driver’s license, recognizable by the star marking in the upper portion of the card.
To determine if your current state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant, look for a star marking in the upper portion of the card. If you are unsure, it’s best to check with your state department of motor vehicles for clarification and to understand how to obtain a REAL ID if your current ID is not compliant.
Passports: Always an Acceptable ID
While not mandatory for U.S. citizens traveling domestically, a valid U.S. passport is always an acceptable form of identification for air travel within the United States. In fact, it is one of the most widely recognized and secure forms of ID. If you possess a valid U.S. passport, you can confidently use it as your identification at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights.
Using your passport for domestic travel can be particularly convenient if you are unsure whether your state-issued ID is REAL ID compliant, or if you simply prefer to use your passport for all air travel.
Other Acceptable Forms of Identification
Besides REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and U.S. passports, TSA accepts several other forms of identification for domestic air travel. These include:
- U.S. passport cards
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, SENTRI, NEXUS)
- Permanent resident card
- Military IDs
- And more (refer to the TSA website for a complete list)
It’s important to note that weapons permits and temporary driver’s licenses are not acceptable forms of identification. Make sure to present one of the TSA-approved forms of ID to avoid any delays at security.
What if You Don’t Have an Acceptable ID?
It happens – you might arrive at the airport without acceptable identification due to loss, theft, or simply forgetting it. In such cases, you may still be permitted to fly.
The TSA officer may subject you to an identity verification process. This process could involve asking you to provide 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, but you may be subject to additional screening.
A Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoint at a US airport, where travelers present their identification and boarding passes for inspection.
However, if you choose not to provide acceptable identification, refuse to cooperate with the identity verification process, or if your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.
TSA advises travelers without acceptable identification to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their scheduled flight departure to allow ample time for the verification process.
Traveling with Children
For families traveling with children, it’s good to know that TSA does not require children under 18 years old to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, it is always wise to confirm specific ID requirements for minors with your airline, as airline policies may vary.
Expired IDs
TSA currently has a policy of accepting expired IDs for up to one year past the expiration date. This applies to all forms of acceptable identification listed. However, with the REAL ID enforcement deadline approaching in 2025, it is always best practice to travel with a valid, unexpired form of identification to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
Name Suffixes on IDs and Boarding Passes
TSA understands that variations can occur with name suffixes on boarding passes and IDs. Suffixes are not mandatory on boarding passes. If a suffix is present on your boarding pass but not on your ID, or vice versa, it is considered an acceptable variation and should not cause any issues at the security checkpoint.
Conclusion
In summary, while a passport is not strictly required for U.S. citizens to travel domestically, it is always accepted and can simplify your travel. For most domestic travel within the US, a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license will suffice starting May 7, 2025. Ensure you have an acceptable form of identification before heading to the airport, and when in doubt, a valid U.S. passport is always a reliable option. For the most up-to-date information, always refer to the official TSA website.
