Traveling internationally typically requires a passport, but what happens if you don’t have one, it’s expired, or you simply prefer to travel without it? While a passport is the most common and widely accepted form of identification for international travel, there are alternative options and scenarios where you might be able to travel without one.
Traveling Domestically Within the United States
Within the United States, you generally don’t need a passport. As of May 7, 2025, the REAL ID Act will be fully enforced. This means you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a U.S. military ID or a permanent resident card, to fly within the U.S. Check with your state department of motor vehicles if you aren’t sure whether your ID complies with REAL ID.
Image alt: A close-up of a REAL ID compliant driver’s license displaying enhanced security features.
Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling domestically. However, it is always best to check with the airline for their specific requirements.
What if You Don’t Have Acceptable Identification?
Even without a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification, you might still be allowed to fly domestically. The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process. This involves providing information like your name and current address to confirm your identity.
If your identity is confirmed, you’ll be allowed to proceed through security, although you may be subject to additional screening. However, if you refuse to provide identification, decline to cooperate with the verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint. TSA recommends arriving at least three hours before your flight if you lack acceptable identification.
Closed-Loop Cruises: A Passport-Free Getaway
One popular option for traveling without a passport is taking a closed-loop cruise. These cruises start and end at the same U.S. port and travel to destinations in Mexico, Canada, the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean. For U.S. citizens, a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID are usually sufficient for these cruises. However, it’s always best to confirm the specific requirements with the cruise line before booking your trip.
Image alt: A majestic cruise ship silhouetted against a vibrant sunset at sea.
Traveling to U.S. Territories
U.S. citizens can generally travel to U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands without a passport. These territories are considered domestic destinations, and a government-issued photo ID is usually sufficient.
Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs)
Residents of certain U.S. states (Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington) can obtain an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL). These licenses serve as both a driver’s license and a proof of citizenship, allowing you to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean by land or sea. However, EDLs are not valid for air travel outside the United States.
Other Accepted Documents
While not applicable in all situations, certain other documents can be used in lieu of a passport in specific circumstances. These may include:
- Military ID: Active duty U.S. military personnel can often use their military ID for official travel.
- NEXUS card: This card allows expedited entry into the U.S. from Canada for pre-approved, low-risk travelers.
- Merchant Mariner Document: U.S. citizens working as maritime crew members can use this document for official travel.
Suffixes on Identification
The TSA accepts variations on suffixes on boarding passes and ID. Suffixes are not required on boarding passes. If there is a suffix on the boarding pass, and there is not one on the ID or vice versa, that is considered an acceptable variation.
Planning Your Passport-Free Trip
Traveling without a passport can be a convenient option for certain destinations and types of travel. However, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the specific requirements for your destination and mode of transportation. Always check with the airline, cruise line, or relevant government agency to ensure you have the necessary documentation to avoid any travel disruptions. Remember, if your identity cannot be verified, you will not be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint.
