In the second half of this article, you'll find a practical table on U.S. Domestic Flight Identification Requirements, which summarizes the various ID requirements for adults, children, unaccompanied minors, and non-U.S./Canadian citizens for domestic flights, both current and those effective after May 7, 2025, including specific information on REAL ID compliance, acceptable alternative forms of ID, digital ID acceptance, and nuances for expired IDs, to help you better understand these crucial regulations at a glance and ensure smooth travels.

travel insurance and domestic us flight identification

Actual ID Requirements for Domestic Flights Starting May 2025

You must board domestic flights within the United States with a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another approved form of identification beginning May 7, 2025. Though it has been extended several times, this deadline is now clearly set. A REAL ID is denoted in the upper right corner with a star. Should your driver's license not be REAL ID compatible, you can substitute another valid U.S. passport, passport card, or other federally recognized ID (DHS Trusted Traveler cards such as Global Entry, military IDs, permanent resident cards, etc.). The TSA page offers a whole list.

Alternative IDs If You Don't Have a Real ID

A valid U.S. passport book or card is a fast-approved substitute for a REAL ID for domestic flights. Though it's not acceptable for international air travel, a passport card is a more reasonably priced, wallet-sized choice than the passport book. Other approved substitutes are state-issued Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs), marked with a flag rather than a star in several states, including Michigan and New York. Valid also are trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. military IDs, and permanent resident cards.


What If You Forget Your ID?

The TSA might let you fly now if you forgot your ID and could prove your identity using another method, such as giving personal information. However, this will change once the REAL ID implementation goes full steam in May 2025. There will be no alternative verification procedure after this date so that you won't be let through security without an appropriate identity.

Flying With Children

Children under eighteen do not need ID when flying domestically inside the United States with an adult friend. Airlines may, however, have their standards, particularly for lap infants, which call for proof of age akin to a birth certificate or passport copy. Always ask the airline. Unaccompanied kids also follow airline-specific policies, usually requiring identification from the responsible adult at check-in.

acceptable forms of identification for us air travel

Digital IDs - A Look Into the Future

TSA approves some states' digital driver's licenses, which are available via smartphone apps. Some states have instituted these apps in PreCheck lanes and at particular airports under experimental projects. See the TSA webpage for airports involved. Clear Plus members have access to biometric identification at several airports. These applications are still developing; a physical ID is advised as a backup. More biometric data and facial recognition in future travel could lessen reliance on traditional IDs.

International Travel Always Requires a Passport

Regardless of age, a valid passport is always essential for overseas travel. In some countries, passports must be valid for at least six months past the trip date. Depending on your destination, visas or other travel authorizations could also be required. Travel requirements particular to each nation are available on the U.S. Department of State website.

U.S. Domestic Flight Identification Requirements
Passenger TypeRequired ID (Current)Required ID (After May 7, 2025)Additional Information
Adults (18+)Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport)REAL ID-compliant driver's license/state ID, or other federally accepted ID (e.g., passport, passport card, Global Entry card)Expired driver's licenses/state IDs accepted within one year of expiration (until May 7, 2025). Digital IDs accepted at select airports (check TSA website). Name on ID must match the name on the flight reservation.
Children (Under 18)No ID required (domestic flights)No ID required (domestic flights)Proof of age may be required for lap infants or unaccompanied minors. Passport required for international travel. Some countries have additional requirements.
Unaccompanied MinorsNo ID required by TSA. Airline requirements vary.No ID required by TSA. Airline requirements vary.Recommended that minors carry some form of ID, even if not required. Passport required for international travel. Adult dropping off/picking up minor needs photo ID.
Non-U.S./Canadian CitizensPassport or U.S. government-issued document (e.g., Permanent Resident Card).Passport or U.S. government-issued document (e.g., Permanent Resident Card).If no U.S. government-issued document is available, a valid passport from their country of citizenship is required. Check specific airline and destination requirements for additional documentation.