Minors' Domestic Travel: Passport Requirements And Exemptions

Travelling with children can be a complicated affair, especially when it comes to the documentation required. While children do not need identification for domestic US travel, it is always better to be cautious and carry identification for them. Minors under the age of 18 do not need to present identification when travelling within the US, and airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult accompanying the minor(s). However, for international travel, including travel to Canada and Mexico, each individual, including minors, needs some form of identification, such as a passport, birth certificate, or visa, depending on the destination.

Minors don't need a passport for domestic travel

When it comes to travelling within the US, minors under the age of 18 do not need to present identification. This is in contrast to adults, who must show valid identification at the airport in order to fly within the country. However, it is worth noting that each airline has its own unique policies and procedures regarding identification requirements for minors, so it is always best to check with your chosen airline in advance.

While minors do not need to provide identification, they will need a boarding pass to board the plane if they are accompanied by an adult. It is also recommended that minors have some form of identification, such as a birth certificate or a photo of their passport on a mobile phone, as this can be useful in certain situations. For example, if a minor looks older than they are, having a birth certificate can help prove their age. Additionally, if you are travelling with a newborn infant, some airlines may require additional documentation, such as a medical form or a note from a physician stating that the infant is healthy enough to fly.

In the case of unaccompanied minors, the adult bringing them to the airport will need to show identification, and it is recommended that the minor also has some form of identification with them, such as a passport or birth certificate. Airlines may also have their own specific requirements for unaccompanied minors, so it is important to check with the carrier in advance.

Minors under 2 may need a birth certificate

When it comes to minors and domestic travel, the general rule is that they do not need identification. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) states that children under 18 are not required to provide identification when travelling within the United States. This is echoed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which confirms that those under 18 do not need ID for domestic US travel.

However, there are some circumstances in which a minor may need a birth certificate when travelling. If a child is under the age of two and is flying as a lap child, some airlines may require proof of age. In this case, a birth certificate can be used to confirm that the child is under two. While some airlines are more lenient, others, such as Southwest Airlines, are strict and always require a birth certificate or government-issued photo ID. It is worth noting that, while not required by all airlines, it is always a good idea to travel with a copy of your child's birth certificate as proof of age.

In addition to a birth certificate, there are other forms of documentation that may be needed when travelling with minors. For example, if flying with a newborn infant, some airlines require a medical form or a note from a physician stating that the infant is healthy enough to fly. Furthermore, if a minor is travelling with a non-parent adult, it is recommended to have a child travel consent form to deal with any questions that may arise at security checkpoints. This form of documentation is also required if a minor is travelling alone or with only one parent, as it provides proof of consent from the other parent(s) or guardian(s).

While minors typically do not need identification for domestic travel, the adult they are travelling with must have valid identification. This can include a state-issued driver's license, passport, permanent resident card, or other forms of federally recognised ID.

Airlines set ID rules for minors

When it comes to air travel, minors are typically subject to different ID requirements than adults. While adults must present valid identification to board a plane, the rules for minors vary depending on the airline, the minor's age, and the type of travel (domestic or international). Here are the key points to know about ID requirements for minors when flying:

Domestic Travel

For domestic travel within the United States, minors under the age of 18 generally do not need to provide identification. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirms that children under 18 are not required to show ID when travelling within the country. Instead, the responsible adult travelling with them can provide identification on their behalf. This means that minors can pass through security and board their flight without needing a government-issued ID.

However, it is important to note that specific airlines may have their own unique policies and procedures for minors. Therefore, it is always recommended to contact your airline well in advance of your travel date to determine their specific requirements. In some cases, airlines may request additional documentation, such as a birth certificate or a notarized consent letter from a non-travelling parent, especially for younger children. This is done to ensure the safety and security of minors and to prevent issues such as parental abduction.

Additionally, some airlines may have specific age categories and seating requirements for minors, which can affect the documentation needed. For example, infants under 14 days old may need a passenger medical form signed by a physician, stating that they are healthy enough to fly. Older infants, typically under two years old, may be considered "lap children" and fly for free without occupying a separate seat. In this case, a boarding verification document may be required to confirm the child's age.

International Travel

In contrast to domestic travel, international travel typically requires all individuals, including minors, to present valid identification. A passport is usually the primary form of ID accepted, and it is necessary when crossing international borders. Some countries may also accept alternative forms of identification, such as a birth certificate or a Trusted Traveler Program card, but this varies by destination. Therefore, it is essential to check the specific requirements of your intended destination in advance.

When a minor is travelling with only one custodial parent or guardian, or alone, additional documentation is often required. A notarized letter of consent from the non-custodial parent(s) or legal guardian(s) is typically needed. This letter should state that the minor has permission to travel outside the country with the accompanying adult. In cases of sole custody, a copy of the custody document may also be required.

Furthermore, unaccompanied minors travelling internationally may have additional requirements, such as a letter of consent and an unaccompanied minor form provided by the airline. Some airlines may also charge a fee for their unaccompanied minor service, which includes an employee escort for the child at the airport and on board the plane.

In summary, while minors generally do not need identification for domestic travel within the United States, ID requirements vary across airlines. For international travel, minors typically need a passport, and additional documentation may be necessary depending on their specific circumstances. It is always recommended to contact your airline and research your destination's requirements in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Minors need a passport for international travel

In most cases, minors do not need to present identification for domestic U.S. travel. Airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult accompanying the minor(s).

However, for international travel, the rules are different. Minors will need to present the same travel documents as adults. This means that minors need a passport for international travel. Even if your child is only a month old, they will need a passport to leave the country.

If you are a U.S. citizen, your child will need a U.S. passport to travel internationally. If you are a non-U.S. citizen, your child will need their own travel documents, such as a passport or visa to enter the U.S.

In addition to a passport, minors travelling internationally may also need a visa and other travel documents, depending on the country they are visiting. It is important to check the specific requirements of your destination country well in advance of travel to ensure you have the necessary documents.

If you are travelling internationally with only one parent, you will also need to provide additional permission forms. This includes a notarized parental consent form signed by both parents and a copy of the non-travelling parent's passport or valid identification. If the child has a deceased parent, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the death certificate. The only exception is if the parent has proof of sole custody. In this case, you may need to present a copy of your custody agreement signed by both parents.

Minors travelling alone have requirements

Minors typically do not need identification for domestic US travel. However, if a minor is travelling alone, there are specific requirements that must be met.

Child Travel Consent Form

A Child Travel Consent Form provides proof that a minor is authorised to travel alone. This form is often provided by the airline and must include information about who is dropping off the child and who will be picking them up at their destination. If the child is travelling alone, they may also be required to have a consent letter signed by both parents. If a parent is deceased, the living parent or guardian must sign the consent form and attach a copy of the death certificate.

Ages 5-14

Children aged 5-14 are not required to show ID at check-in, but they are encouraged to have some form of identification on them during travel. If the child has a passport, it is recommended that they take a copy of it in case of emergencies.

Ages 15-17

Children aged 15-17 may be required to provide some form of identification, such as:

• Organisation ID (athletics club, theatre group, etc.)
• Proof of auto insurance in the passenger's name
• Social Security card

Additional Requirements

If a minor is travelling alone, it is recommended that they have a copy of their complete itinerary, including flight dates and times, flight numbers, airport names, city names, and their reservation code. They should also have important phone numbers, such as the numbers of their parents or guardians, as well as the person meeting them at their destination. It is also suggested that minors travelling alone have bag tags with their contact information on both checked and carry-on luggage.

Frequently asked questions