Traveling Domestically: What Americans Need To Know

As of May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Acceptable forms of identification for domestic travel include a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card, a passport, a DHS trusted traveler card, a U.S. Department of Defense ID, a permanent resident card, a border crossing card, a federally recognized Tribal-issued photo ID, a Canadian provincial driver's license, a transportation worker identification credential, a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card, a U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential, and a Veteran Health Identification Card.

Identification requirements for domestic US travel

For US citizens, a valid US government-issued photo ID or passport is required to travel through security. The name on the boarding pass must match the name on the unexpired government-issued ID.

From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant form of identification will be required for domestic air travel for anyone using their state-issued ID or license to fly within the US. This includes driver's licenses and other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent). If you are unsure if your ID complies with REAL ID, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles.

If you do not have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, a US passport can be used instead. A passport is also sufficient for international travel.

For non-US citizens, a government-issued photo ID must be presented to TSA agents at the airport. This can be a foreign government-issued passport or a photo ID issued by the US government, such as a permanent resident card.

Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when travelling within the US, although each airline has its own policies regarding unaccompanied minors.

TSA checkpoints

To travel domestically within the US, you need a valid US government-issued photo ID or a passport from your country of origin. This applies to those over the age of 18. The name on your boarding pass must match the legal name on your unexpired government-issued ID.

Identification

Adult passengers (18 and older) must present valid identification at the TSA checkpoint to be allowed through security. A driver's license or state photo identity card issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) is required for US citizens. If you are using your state-issued ID or license to fly within the US, it must be REAL ID-compliant from May 7, 2025. If you are unsure whether your ID complies, you should check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.

Acceptable Forms of ID

The TSA has a list of acceptable forms of identification, which includes:

• State-issued driver's license or ID card
• DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID
• Permanent resident card
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

No ID

If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. A TSA officer will ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name and address. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but may be subject to additional screening. Not providing acceptable identification, declining to cooperate with the identity verification process, or having an unconfirmable identity will result in denial of entry to the security checkpoint.

TSA PreCheck®

TSA PreCheck® is an expedited screening program that allows eligible passengers to speed through security without removing items like shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets. TSA PreCheck® hours and lane availability may vary, and passengers are not guaranteed expedited screening.

Screening Process

The TSA employs a range of screening procedures, including carry-on and checked baggage screening, to prevent prohibited items and threats from entering sterile areas of the airport. Passengers may be asked to remove electronic devices like laptops and tablets from their carry-on bags for separate screening. Certain items, such as foods, powders, and materials that clutter bags, may need to be separated from carry-on bags to facilitate clear X-ray images.

TSA recommends keeping your carry-on bag organized and checking for prohibited items to streamline the screening process. Additionally, passengers may be subject to pat-down procedures to detect prohibited items or threats. These pat-downs are conducted by an officer of the same sex and may include sensitive areas of the body. Passengers can request private screening accompanied by a companion of their choice, with a second officer of the same sex present.

Security Measures

The TSA incorporates unpredictable security measures to enhance transportation security. These measures may change over time to address evolving threats. Passengers are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or items at airports, train stations, bus stops, and ports.

REAL ID requirements

To travel domestically within the US, you need a valid U.S. government-issued photo ID or a passport from your country of origin. This applies to travel through security and to board domestic flights.

From May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must be REAL ID-compliant to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. REAL ID requirements include the following:

• All documents presented for verification must be valid, current, and not expired.
• Hard copies of documents are required, and images from cellphones are not accepted.
• Account numbers must be visible.
• Photocopies will not be accepted.
• Vision, knowledge, and/or road tests may be required.
• An individual can only receive one REAL ID card, either a REAL ID driver's license or a REAL ID identification card. It is prohibited for an individual to have both.

A REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID will have a star (and/or a flag) or say "Enhanced" on it. If you are unsure whether your ID complies with REAL ID, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles.

A passport can also fill the REAL ID requirement for domestic travel.

Alternate forms of identification

As of May 7, 2025, all US air travellers over the age of 18 must show valid identification at the airport in order to travel domestically. This is due to the implementation of the REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, which sets standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.

From this date, federal agencies, including the TSA, will only accept state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards as identification for domestic air travel if the ID is REAL ID-compliant. This means the ID must include a star marking, indicating it is REAL ID-compliant, or be from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont, which issue Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDLs) as acceptable alternatives.

However, there are several other forms of identification that are accepted by the TSA for domestic air travel. These include:

• State photo identity cards
• Foreign passports (must be unexpired)
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
• Trusted traveller cards such as NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST cards issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Border-crossing cards
• Native American tribal ID cards
• Airline or airport photo ID cards issued in compliance with TSA regulations
• Transportation worker ID credentials
• DHS-trusted traveller cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
• U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
• Permanent resident card
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
• Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
• Foreign government-issued passport
• Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential

International travel requirements

Passport:

A passport is required for all international travel. Ensure your passport is in good condition, free of any damage beyond normal wear and tear, and not materially altered. Some countries require your passport to be issued at least six months before your arrival, so always check the requirements of your destination.

Visas:

In addition to a passport, some countries require a visa to enter. Visa requirements vary depending on your destination and the length of your stay. For example, if you are travelling to the U.S. for less than 90 days, you need to apply for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Health and Testing Requirements:

Depending on your destination and departure points, you may need to provide proof of certain vaccinations or a negative COVID-19 test. Some countries may also require you to have travel health insurance.

Travel Authorizations:

Some countries require you to obtain an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or an electronic travel information and authorization system (ETIAS) before entering. For example, the United Kingdom requires an ETA, while the European Union will soon implement its ETIAS system for visa-free travellers.

Driving Requirements:

If you plan to drive during your international trip, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Check with the relevant authorities in your destination country to confirm if you need an IDP.

Travel Advisories and Registrations:

Before travelling, check for any travel advisories or alerts for your destination. It is also recommended to register with your country's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) or equivalent program to stay informed and receive assistance in emergencies.

Other Requirements:

Some countries may require proof of return or onward travel, a visiting address, and sufficient funds for your stay. Always check with the consulate of every country you are entering or passing through to ensure you meet all requirements.

Remember, it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documents for your entire trip, including entry, transit, and return. Failure to provide the required documentation may result in denied boarding or entry.

Frequently asked questions