id to travel by air

REAL ID: New Deadline Announced for Air Travel ID Requirements

Update: real id deadline postponed to 2023.

*Due to circumstances resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the national emergency declaration, the Department of Homeland Security is extending the REAL ID enforcement deadline (again.) Now, the new deadline for REAL ID enforcement is October 1, 2023. (More details) .

Now, according to the Department of Homeland Security’s Secretary

As our country continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, extending the Real ID full enforcement deadline will give states needed time to reopen their driver’s licensing operations and ensure their residents can obtain a Real ID-compliant license or identification card. Alejandro N. Mayorkas

Beginning * October 1, 2023 , every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.

A little more than a year away, the TSA is changing its identification requirements. Here’s exactly what this means for you, and how TSA “REAL ID” protocol affects future air travel. Effective on Oct. 1, 2020 ( Extended to October 1, 2023 ) travelers will not be allowed to board a flight without a REAL ID , or some kind of alternative identification such as a passport.

If you have been inside an airport recently, you may have seen signage at TSA checkpoints that announce there are going to be changes to what constitutes an acceptable ID for air travel.

In fact, the TSA has begun an awareness program to educate flyers. At many TSA checkpoints (where they verify your documents) if your ID is not REAL ID Compliant, you may hear the agent say “ Beginning October 2021 you will not be allowed to fly with your current ID. ”

Well, soon, the TSA Real ID requirements will mean you must have compliant identification cards for domestic air travel.

First, What Is TSA Compliant REAL ID?

Soon the TSA Will Require You to Have a Compliant ID to Fly

REAL ID is the result of congressional legislation — one of those laws enacted after 9/11. The government passed the REAL ID Act in 2005.

The Act established specific minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. REAL ID prohibits federal agencies from accepting those licenses and IDs from states that are not in compliance — more on that later. This legislation meant to eliminate potential airline terrorism by increasing the security requirements for documents that would give passengers access to airplanes.

What’s The Difference Between the Old & New TSA Compliant REAL IDs?

The new identification cards are being built with some newer, cutting-edge technology that will make them much harder to forge. Additionally, obtaining a state ID will require supplementary supporting documents that not all the states currently collect.

Why Are Many People Just Hearing About REAL ID Requirements Now?

It’s been a difficult and often contentious battle getting each of the fifty states into compliance with the new identification requirements. There have been delays and extensions since first enacted into law. In fact, it’s been nearly 15 years since the legislation passed and finally we are at a point where implementation in America’s airports is going to become a reality. All states must be in compliance by October 1, 2023. That’s why it’s important now to know what is going on.

How Can I Tell If My ID and My State Driver’s License Are TSA REAL ID Compliant?

Not All ID’s Are ‘REAL ID’ Compliant

Nearly all the states with issued compliant ID’s have a black or gold star on the front of the card — in the upper right hand corner with a few exceptions.

REAL ID TSA DHS Current Map United States

To complicate matters a bit, Hawaii, Tennessee and Utah are REAL ID compliant, but do not have the star identifier. You can check with your state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you’re not certain. State IDs not in compliance say “Not for Federal Identification” or “Federal Limits Apply.” You can check out the current list of compliant states on the Department of Homeland Security’s website.

If My State Is On That Compliant List, Then Is My ID Compliant?

Not necessarily. You may have acquired your license before it was compliant. In that case, you need to get a new and compliant ID. If your ID doesn’t have the gold or black star in the upper right corner (and it’s not from Hawaii, Tennessee or Utah,) you should visit your DMV and check to make sure your ID is compliant, or get a new ID.

If I Have TSA PreCheck Do I Need a REAL ID?

Yes, although TSA PreCheck is a great benefit to have, it will not prevent you from having to present a compliant ID to pass through a TSA security checkpoint and board a flight.

With the popularity of credit cards that include PreCheck, membership has increased overall.

If you want to get free TSA PreCheck, these credit cards include Global Entry and TSA PreCheck reimbursement, among other benefits:

The Platinum Card from American Express
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Capital One Venture Rewards Card

What Happens If I Ignore This and Try to Fly With a Non-Compliant ID?

REAL ID Non-Compliant ID's will be denied boarding

You won’t fly. Even if you have another state government issued ID, the TSA has made it quite clear that anyone who fails to present a REAL ID compliant ID will not be allowed to pass through a TSA checkpoint and board an airplane after October 1, 2023. In that case, you’ll need a passport or passport card to fly domestically.

It is up to you, the traveler, to know if your ID is compliant and to make efforts to ensure you have an acceptable ID for travel. Take steps now. You still have several months before the October 1, 2023 deadline to get the proper ID from your DMV.

Will There Be Any More Extensions?

Hey, we are talking about the US government, so anything’s possible. There have been a lot of delays and extensions as I mentioned.

But don’t count on any more as we are down to the ‘eleventh hour’ on full implementation of the REAL ID requirements. There are some real issues with getting some states to issue the REAL ID cards. For example, Alaska and California were granted an extension for the dates they must begin issuing the cards, but that does not change the TSA’s October 1, 2021 deadline for travel. If your state has been granted such an extension, you should check back often on when exactly they will issue the new ID’s.

Here is the latest extension information, provided by Department of Homeland Security

* indicates state is issuing REAL ID-compliant licenses and IDs

What Should You Do Right Now?

If you do not have REAL ID compliant license, you should first check to see if your state is already compliant.

Here’s a graphic to help you see where your state might fall in the requirements, provided by the TSA (but this is subject to change)

Timeline of REAL ID TSA Air Travel Requirements

If your state is compliant, you should check to see if your ID is compliant. If not, make the effort to get yourself a new ID. You probably will have to produce a verified copy of your original birth certificate and proof of a valid Social Security number to meet your state’s identification requirements.

If your state is not compliant, then contact your DMV to find out when they expect to be compliant. You’ve got some time, but make a plan to get your compliant ID. Remember, the TSA will not be enforcing these new rules until October 1, 2023.

“Homeland Security established some guidelines for all 50 states to abide by,” Secretary of State Jesse White said in May. Here’s the TSA’s checklist to get a Real ID: https://realid.ilsos.gov/checklist.html .

In addition the Secretary of State’s website has more information on the Real ID.

Start Early, Beat the Rush to Get Your TSA REAL ID

My suggestion is to start the process of getting a new ID early. Even if you don’t fly often, or don’t plan to fly in the foreseeable future, I still suggest you get a compliant ID. You never know if something might come up that required you to travel. If that happened, you wouldn’t want to be ‘grounded’ because you didn’t have proper identification.

States are making the efforts to be federally compliant and they understand that every resident will eventually need one. They are making the effort to get this done in time. But don’t delay; the rush is sure to be ugly as October 2023 approaches. I am imagining throngs of people descending upon their local DMV offices at the last moment once they realize they will be denied by the TSA if they don’t have a REAL ID compliant license (or ID card.)

Some Additional Questions Answered

Do i need a tsa compliant id to vote.

No. The REAL ID requirements neither affect voter access nor voter registration processes.

What About International Travel?

REAL ID has no effect on the requirements for international travel. Every passenger still is required to have a valid passport for international travel. You will still need your passport to leave the country.

I know there has been a lot of confusion and misinformation regarding the new TSA REAL ID air travel requirements. Please let me know in the comments section if you have any additional questions.

What About the Trusted Traveler Program, or Global Entry?

Technically, the Real ID technically is not mandatory because passengers may instead use other approved documents. This includes a passport, passport card, U.S. military ID, Enhanced ID (offered in some states) or an ID from the federal government’s Trusted Traveler Program, such as a Global Entry card.

The REAL ID Final Review

REAL ID Air Travel Requirements 2023 Twitter

REAL ID’s will be required of all air passengers soon. October 2023 is the latest deadline set by the federal government. Beginning on October 1, 2023 , every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.

If you have more questions, please ask away in the comments below:

The responses below are not provided or commissioned by the bank advertiser. Responses have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the bank advertiser. It is not the bank advertiser's responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered.

Miles Jackson

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Washington state is a loser. They wanted to help illegal aliens so the DL is NOT compliant. However, they got around the law saying you can buy a more expensive “enhanced driver’s license”. Many states issue DL that are compliant but not Washington state.

Just get a passport. If you want less bulk for domestic flights, get a passport card. Works not only in US airports but all airports.

John, Great suggestion for travelers. The cost is $65 for adults (for the passport card alone.) A new US passport will run you $145 (renewal $110.) SO, if you were getting your passport for the first time ($145) and a passport card with it ($65) expect it to cost $210. Then pull out your passport card like a credit card from you wallet, billfold, purse or travel document carrier.

If you purchase a Compliant License could you then use the TSA Precheck line?

ZDENKO- No, sorry. One does not get TSA PreCheck without going through a separate process. But you’ll need a compliant ID to get through security either way.

My drivers license does not expire for another 4 years. It will cost $40 to get the enhanced one. Can I apply for a real ID for $10 and will that work to fly. I am on a fixed budget and cannot throw away money when not necessary.

Hi Gary C- Unfortunately no. You will be required to get a new driver’s license issued by your state (at whatever cost that is set by them.) The $10 is a surcharge added onto (in most jurisdictions) the standard cost for your driver’s license. You are forced to get a completely new identification (in this case, driver’s license) that complies with the REAL ID requirements.

Ohio does, in fact, offer a compliant license with white star encased in a black circle, next to a gold version of the state of Ohio. I got one in April of 2019.

Hi Mike M- Thanks for the comment. I’ve verified with the DHS website and updated the article to reflect that Ohio does have a REAL ID with a white star within a black circle, as you mentioned. Thanks for that!

Your link points to sgn archived DHS webpage.

Hi Debit – Thanks for that catch. Guess the government doesn’t maintain that list anymore. However, I have updated the post with the current map as well as new link provided by the Department of Homeland Security for the latest information on States’ compliance with the new REAL ID requirements. Thanks for reading!

How are they going to deal with people whose Real ID is lost/stolen at the destination? This could be particularly problematic if the destination (or the home state/territory) is not in the 48 contiguous states.

T- That’s a great question and one that has come a few times in my research. However, no one seems to have a definitive answer and it will probably vary greatly for each issuing State. Bottom line is it will definitely be a huge problem if someone doesn’t have a backup (i.e. passport) identification so they could board a returning flight. Thanks for your input!

I read recently that Global Entry is also acceptable. Can you verify this?

Hi Jeanie- There are a lot of misunderstandings and mis-facts about REAL ID. Those who do not plan to fly after Sept. 30, 2020, can continue to use their current state-issued driver’s license until it expires. So can air travelers who have a valid U.S. passport or passport card, a military ID, a DHS Global Entry card, a permanent resident card or a passport issued by a foreign government.

Question are TWIC cards, which provide a Known Traveler ID going to be acceptable?

Stephen- Yes, Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC®) are accepted under the REAL ID program!

Do you need to participate in the Trusted Traveler Program if you have a Real ID?

Carl- No, you do not need to participate in the Trusted Traveler Program if you have a Real ID. In fact, it also works the other way. If you have an ID in the Trusted Traveler Program (like Global Entry) you can use that ID as your REAL ID. Hopefully, that makes sense. Thanks for the question, which I know may help other readers.

[…] TSA Real ID FAQs: A Complete Guide To Requirements […]

Don’t Get Turned Away. Get REAL ID Today.

U.S. airlines are working closely with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to keep passengers safe. Effective May 7, 2025, travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or other approved identification to pass through TSA checkpoints at airports.

That means passengers who are not prepared by the deadline will not be allowed to pass through TSA checkpoints— even for domestic flights. To make sure you don’t get turned away, get REAL ID today!

REAL ID Compliance Status

Choose your state or U.S. territory for the current REAL ID compliance status and information on how you can obtain REAL ID-compliant identification.

*The states highlighted above offer alternative identification cards, such as an enhanced driver’s license, which also meet the REAL ID security requirements.

Check for the Star

REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification have been available for some time and you may already meet the new security standards. In most states, REAL ID compliance identification cards are marked with a star as shown in the examples below.

Some states offer an alternate compliant driver’s license that does not include a star, such as an enhanced driver’s license. For details about REAL ID-compliant identification cards in your state, select your state on the REAL ID compliance map.

Other Acceptable Identification

Passengers can present a state-issued REAL ID driver’s license or identification to pass TSA inspection, but these other federally-issued identifications will also be permitted to pass through airport screening:

U.S. Passport
DHS Trusted Traveler Card
U.S. Military ID

Related News

This important security change is the result of the REAL ID Act of 2005, which established minimum standards and security enhancements for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification and prohibits federal agencies, like TSA, from accepting licenses or identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.

Read more on TSA’s REAL ID requirements.

REAL ID deadline is 1 year away. How to know if you need one, and how to get it

The deadline has been moved several times, but residents are being urged to get the compliant identification cards in the next year, by nbc chicago staff • published may 1, 2024 • updated on may 1, 2024 at 1:23 pm.

It’s been talked about for years, but the deadline to obtain an identification card or driver’s license that is compliant with the REAL ID Act is just one year away.

That law will require residents who wish to fly domestically or to enter specific federal buildings to have the enhanced identification cards, which come with additional safety features and specific steps that applicants must follow.

Watch 24/7 free news online with NBC 5 Chicago’s stream

Here is a breakdown of everything you need to know about REAL ID.

When is the REAL ID deadline?

According to the Department of Homeland Security , REAL ID-compliant identification will be required in specific instances beginning on May 7, 2025.

There have been several deadlines in the past, with several altered because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The most recent deadline change was established in Dec. 2022, according to officials.

Why was REAL ID enacted?

Hit-and-run driver seriously injures woman in Bucktown crosswalk

3-year-old girl killed, multiple others hurt in DuSable Lake Shore Drive crash

The REAL ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 after the publication of the 9/11 Commission Report, with officials urging state governments to step up efforts to produce secure identification cards that would be more difficult to forge or alter, according to DHS officials.

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter here.

When will you need a REAL ID?

A REAL ID-compliant identification card will be required for residents who plan to fly domestically after May 7, 2025. A valid U.S. passport can also be used in those instances, according to officials.

REAL ID-compliant cards are also required to enter specific federal facilities, including courthouses and prisons, and will also be required to enter secure facilities like nuclear power plants, according to officials.

Who needs to have one?

All residents age 18 and older who plan to fly domestically or enter specific federal facilities will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card.

How do I know if my card is REAL ID-compliant?

All compliant identification cards will feature a prominent gold star, surrounded by a gold circle.

Where can you get a REAL ID?

REAL IDs can be obtained through Secretary of State driver’s facilities in Illinois. Many facilities require appointments, but residents are urged to check their local facility for more details.

What do you need to get a REAL ID?

A total of five forms of identification are needed to obtain a license or identification card that is compliant with the law. The state of Illinois has a checklist to help applicants prepare for the process.

Original copies are required for all documents, and physical copies are also required, as employees at facilities will be required to scan all documentation.

One form of identification must contain your full and current legal name, first, middle, and last. This can include a certified copy of a birth certificate, a U.S. passport, and other forms of ID issued by the State Department.

Another document must contain your full Social Security Number. That can include your card, a W-2 form, a pay stub, or other IRS documents that contain your name and SSN.

Two documents establishing proof of residency are also required. These can include bank statements, cancelled checks, credit card statements, college transcripts, credit reports, mortgage or lease agreements, insurance policies, pay stubs, utility bills, voter registration cards, or official mail received from a government agency. These documents must have the applicant’s name and address.

Finally, another document must feature an applicant’s written signature. This can include a driver’s license, a canceled check, a court order, a credit or debit card, a Medicare card, military ID, loan documents, a Social Security card, or a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services form, among others.

When will I get my REAL ID?

According to Illinois officials, a resident’s new card will be mailed within 15 business days. A paper copy will be issued at the DMV, but cannot be used to fly domestically or to enter federal facilities.

How much will a REAL ID cost?

The cost of a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card will be the same as any other driver’s license or card issued by Illinois DMV’s, according to officials.

Where can I get more information?

The Illinois Secretary of State’s Office and the Department of Homeland Security both have websites designed to answer questions about the REAL ID program, and to help provide a checklist of required materials for application.

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Virginia residents will need a REAL ID to board an airplane starting May 2025

SANDSTON, Va. — Do you have a star on your Virginia driver’s license? If not, there’s still time to get your REAL ID-compliant driver’s license with that star on it. But it’s better to get it sooner, rather than later.

Virginia residents who want to board an airplane for a domestic flight will soon need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. If their driver’s license is not REAL ID -compliant, they will need another form of approved identification , such as a passport to board their flight or enter a secure federal facility or military base. The REAL ID driver’s license and identification card have a small star in the upper right corner to indicate they meet federal regulations that establish minimum security standards.

REAL ID goes into effect in about one year, starting May 7, 2025, and the countdown is on!

“REAL ID is a coordinated effort by the federal government to improve the reliability and accuracy of driver licenses and identification cards,” says Robin “Chuck” Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Richmond International Airport. “The improvements are intended to inhibit terrorists’ ability to evade detection by using fraudulent identification.”

Virginia residents have the option to upgrade to a REAL ID if their license does not currently have the star or stick with an older standard driver’s license. However, a standard credential—without the star—will not be valid to board a domestic flight or to access secure federal facilities, including military bases and some federal offices.

To get the REAL ID star, individuals will need to visit their local Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles office in person and bring certain documents to prove U.S. citizenship and Virginia residency. Required documents include one proof of identity (passport or U.S. birth certificate), proof of legal presence for non-U.S. citizens, two proofs of Virginia residency, your social security card (if you’ve been issued one) and a current driver’s license if you are applying to exchange one issued by another U.S. state.

Transportation Security Administration officers who staff the ticket document checking station at airports will not allow travelers into the checkpoint without a REAL ID-compliant license or another form of acceptable ID after May 7, 2025, because of a federal law (The REAL ID Act of 2005) that mandates that a REAL ID is needed for federal purposes.

Travelers will start to notice new signs at airports nationwide to remind people that REAL ID-compliant licenses or other acceptable forms of ID, such as a valid passport, federal government PIV card or U.S. military ID, will be mandatory for air travel beginning on May 7, 2025, Burke explained. “Critically important, on May 7, 2025, individuals who are unable to verify their identity may not be permitted to enter the TSA checkpoint and will not be allowed to fly,” he said.

For more information and details about how to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card in Virginia, visit Virginia’s Department of Motor Vehicles web site.

Deadline for Real ID for air travel pushed back because of pandemic

The Department of Homeland Security will delay the requirement for air travelers to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification, pushing it back 19 months, Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Tuesday.

The deadline was supposed to be Oct. 1, but it's now being postponed until May 3, 2023. Similar delays in the past have been the result of a lack of full state compliance with the requirements for issuing the more secure driver’s licenses. But this time, it’s because of the pandemic, these officials say, which made it harder for people to get into state motor vehicle departments and get the new IDs.

"Extending the Real ID full enforcement deadline will give states needed time to reopen their driver’s licensing operations and ensure their residents can obtain a Real ID-compliant license or identification card,” Mayorkas said.

Real ID compliant cards are issued after a more thorough check of an applicant's identification and incorporate new security features that make them harder to counterfeit. Under the Real ID Act, passed by Congress after the terrorist hijackings of Sept. 11, 2001, travelers 18 or older wanting to board an airplane by using a driver's license for identification must have one that conforms with the law's stricter requirements.

The new licenses have a star on the upper right-hand corner.

The requirement was delayed repeatedly over the past decade, at first because states said they were not prepared for the new rules. It was set to kick in last year.

But DHS postponed the effective date after the Covid pandemic made it harder for drivers to get to local motor vehicle departments. Now it is being delayed again for the same reason.

DHS said many state licensing agencies have shifted to appointment-only scheduling during the pandemic, limiting their capacity to issue the new licenses. As a result, only 43 percent of all state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards are Real ID-compliant.

Former acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said before leaving office that 114 million Americans had a compliant license and that all 50 states were issuing them. But while some states had issued Real IDs to 90 percent of their residents, others managed to get them to less than 25 percent, he said.

Jay Blackman is an NBC News producer covering such areas as transportation, space, medical and consumer issues.

Pete Williams is an NBC News correspondent who covers the Justice Department and the Supreme Court, based in Washington.

Traveling To Mexico With A Real Id

With new Real ID requirements for air travel going into effect in 2023, many U.S. citizens are wondering how these new regulations will impact international travel to popular destinations like Mexico.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using a Real ID to travel to Mexico by air.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: You will need a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification like a passport to fly to Mexico starting on May 3, 2023 . Real IDs have a star in the upper right corner to indicate they meet the new DHS requirements.

What is a Real ID?

A Real ID is a type of identification card that meets federal standards for airport security. It was introduced as part of the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005. The purpose of the Real ID Act is to enhance the security of driver’s licenses and identification cards in order to prevent terrorism and reduce identity fraud.

Definition of a Real ID

A Real ID is a form of identification that is issued by state governments and is compliant with the requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). It features security features such as a star or a gold circle in the top right corner of the card, indicating that it is a Real ID.

Real IDs are typically issued in the form of a driver’s license or identification card and are used for various purposes, including boarding domestic flights, entering federal facilities, and accessing certain benefits and services.

How to Get a Real ID

In order to obtain a Real ID, individuals need to visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office and provide certain documents to prove their identity, date of birth, social security number, and address.

The specific documents required may vary depending on the state, so it is important to check with the local DMV for the exact requirements.

Some common documents that are typically required for obtaining a Real ID include a valid passport or birth certificate, social security card or W-2 form, and two proofs of address, such as utility bills or bank statements.

In addition, individuals may need to provide proof of legal presence in the United States, such as a green card or work visa.

Real ID Deadlines

The implementation of the Real ID Act has been phased in gradually across the United States. The deadline for individuals to possess a Real ID in order to board domestic flights was initially set for October 1, 2020.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the deadline has been extended to May 3, 2023.

It is important to note that the May 3, 2023 deadline applies to air travel only. Different deadlines may apply for accessing federal facilities and other purposes. It is recommended to check the official website of the Department of Homeland Security for the most up-to-date information on Real ID deadlines.

For more information about Real IDs and the requirements for obtaining one, you can visit the official website of the Department of Homeland Security: www.dhs.gov/real-id .

Do You Need a Real ID to Fly to Mexico?

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico, you might be wondering if you need a Real ID to fly there. The answer depends on whether you’re taking a domestic or international flight.

Real ID Requirements for Domestic Flights

For domestic flights within the United States, a Real ID is required starting from October 1, 2021. This means that if you don’t have a Real ID, you won’t be able to board your flight to Mexico. The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005 to establish minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards.

It was created in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks to enhance the security of domestic air travel.

To obtain a Real ID, you need to provide certain documents such as a valid passport or birth certificate, social security card, and proof of address. It’s important to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for specific requirements and to ensure that you have the necessary documents in order to apply for a Real ID.

Real ID Requirements for International Flights

When it comes to international flights to Mexico, a Real ID is not required. However, you will still need a valid passport to enter the country. A passport is an official government document that certifies your identity and citizenship and allows you to travel internationally.

It’s important to note that the requirements for entering Mexico may vary depending on your country of citizenship. Some countries have visa exemption agreements with Mexico, while others may require a visa.

It’s always a good idea to check with the Mexican Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information on entry requirements.

Alternative Documents Besides a Real ID

While a Real ID is the most common form of identification required for domestic air travel in the United States, there are alternative documents that can be used when traveling to Mexico. These alternative documents are equally valid and can provide a hassle-free travel experience.

Here are some of the options:

A passport is a universally recognized travel document that allows entry into Mexico and many other countries around the world. It is a secure and reliable form of identification that is widely accepted. If you already have a passport, it is highly recommended to carry it when traveling to Mexico.

It not only serves as a valid identification but also allows for easy re-entry into the United States.

Passport Card

A passport card is a wallet-sized alternative to a traditional passport. It can be used for land and sea travel between the United States and Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. While it cannot be used for international air travel, it is a convenient option for those who frequently travel to Mexico by land or sea.

The passport card is a cost-effective alternative to a full passport.

Enhanced Driver’s License

Some states offer an enhanced driver’s license (EDL) that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) requirements. An EDL can be used for land and sea travel between the United States and Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean.

It serves as both a driver’s license and a valid travel document. However, it is important to note that not all states offer EDLs, so it is necessary to check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles to see if this option is available.

Military ID

For active duty military personnel, a valid military ID can serve as an alternative to a Real ID when traveling to Mexico. The military ID is a government-issued identification card that is recognized internationally.

It is important to carry this ID along with any necessary travel orders or documentation to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Remember, it is always advisable to check with the U.S. Department of State or the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding travel requirements and acceptable identification documents when traveling to Mexico.

Having the right documentation will help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip.

Traveling to Mexico by Land or Sea

Document requirements for mexico land crossings.

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico by land, it’s important to understand the document requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. While a passport is generally the most commonly used document for international travel, there are other options available for crossing the border into Mexico.

One such option is the Real ID.

A Real ID is a driver’s license or identification card that meets federal requirements for domestic air travel and accessing federal facilities. While it is primarily used for domestic travel within the United States, it can also be used for land crossings into Mexico and Canada.

However, it’s important to note that not all states issue Real ID-compliant driver’s licenses or identification cards. To determine if your state offers Real ID, you can visit the Department of Homeland Security website for more information.

If your state does not offer Real ID, you will need to present an alternative form of identification when crossing into Mexico.

Regardless of whether you choose to use a Real ID or another form of identification, it’s always a good idea to carry your passport with you when traveling internationally. This will serve as a backup in case any issues arise or you need to provide additional identification.

Cruise Travel to Mexico

If you’re planning to travel to Mexico by sea, whether on a cruise ship or private boat, the document requirements may differ from those for land crossings. While a passport is still the most widely accepted form of identification, there are some exceptions and alternatives available.

For example, if you are taking a closed-loop cruise, which starts and ends in the same U.S. port, you may be able to use a government-issued photo ID, such as a Real ID, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate.

It’s important to check with your cruise line or travel agent for specific requirements and any changes in documentation policies.

It’s worth noting that even if you are not required to have a passport for your cruise to Mexico, it is still highly recommended. A passport serves as the most comprehensive and widely accepted form of identification and can be essential in case of emergencies or unexpected travel changes.

Before embarking on your cruise, it’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the U.S. Department of State’s guidelines for cruise ship passengers. These guidelines provide valuable information on safety, health, and legal considerations while traveling on a cruise ship.

Getting a Passport Card for Mexico Travel

Passport card overview.

A passport card is a wallet-sized travel document issued by the U.S. Department of State. It can only be used for international travel by land or sea between the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda. The passport card cannot be used for international air travel.

The passport card is a great alternative to a passport book for travelers who frequently visit Mexico, Canada or the Caribbean islands . It’s cheaper and more convenient to carry than a passport book.

Applying for a Passport Card

Applying for a passport card is easy. You can submit an application at one of over 9,000 passport acceptance facilities or through the mail. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

Complete Form DS-11 and pay the applicable fee ($30 for applicants 16 and older).
Provide proof of U.S. citizenship, such as an original birth certificate or naturalization certificate.
Present a valid form of photo ID, like a driver’s license.
Provide a passport photo. Many acceptance facilities can take your photo.
Routine service takes 4-6 weeks. Expedited service takes 2-3 weeks for an additional fee.

Cost of a Passport Card

Here are the current costs for getting a passport card (valid for 10 years):

As you can see, a passport card is very affordable , especially compared to a passport book. It’s a great travel document for quick trips to Mexico and other nearby destinations.

With the Real ID deadline fast approaching, U.S. citizens planning to travel to Mexico by air need to ensure they have an acceptable form of ID like a Real ID driver’s license, passport, or passport card.

By understanding the new requirements and proactively getting a Real ID or passport, you can avoid any hassles or issues boarding your flight to Mexico. For trips across the land border, a passport is not required but recommended.

With some preparation and the right documents, your visit to Mexico can be hassle-free and focus on enjoying the culture, beaches, and cuisine of America’s southern neighbor.

Stephanie Lee is an avid travel writer and remote worker with a passion for mind-opening adventures that change not just where you go, but who you become. Originally from San Francisco with continual wanderlust woven into her multiethnic upbringing, Stephanie has extensively backpacked through over 50 countries across 6 continents while working flexibly online. Through vulnerable storytelling on The FYS Life, she motivates people to embrace travel as a conduit for better understanding themselves and the cultures that shape our world. An optimistic spirit who finds daily inspiration in moments of natural beauty or human connection, Stephanie currently resides in Portland, Oregon between journeys abroad.

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Do Kids Need ID to Fly?

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Traveling with children can be quite a different experience than traveling alone. Navigating security, extra bags, boarding the plane, keeping them entertained and myriad other considerations can make flying with youngsters more interesting.

But that’s assuming you can even get on the plane in the first place. Do minors under the age of 18 need identification to travel? The short answer is "no" for domestic U.S. travel, but "yes" for international travel.

For domestic travel, airlines will accept ID from the adult on behalf of the minor, but for international travel, both the minor and the adult must present the same travel documents.

So, whether kids need ID to fly depends on the type of trip you’re taking. To avoid having your vacation sidelined by missing documentation, here are situations where kids can skip having identification when flying and times when it’s required.

Kids don’t need an ID when flying within the U.S.

Domestic travel with an adult.

When flying domestically, both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirm that kids younger than 18 don't need an ID to travel.

However, the adult they are traveling with needs to have an ID — and most airlines don't allow children to fly solo unless using an airline's unaccompanied minor service.

An adult must have a state-issued driver’s license or identity card, passport or passport card, permanent resident or border crossing card or other forms of federally recognized identification.

» Learn more: The key differences between a passport book and a passport card

If the child is traveling with a non-parent adult, it can be helpful to complete a child travel consent form to deal with questions at security checkpoints.

If flying with a newborn infant , some airlines require additional documentation, such as a medical form. It may also be good to secure a note from a physician or hospital stating that the infant is healthy to travel.

Domestic travel as an unaccompanied minor

If a child is traveling as an unaccompanied minor, they don't need identification, but the adult taking the child to the airport needs to show an ID. However, if the child does have an identification card or passport, it is wise to bring it.

» Learn more: Pro tips for smart and cheap family travel

It's also recommended that they carry their birth certificate. Some airlines may require the adult to sign a release form.

Airlines may have their own requirements for unaccompanied minors, so be sure to check with the carrier. For example, American Airlines requires the child to have a form of identification like a passport or birth certificate. The airline also recommends attaching a copy of a form of ID to the child’s clothing as an additional measure.

» Learn more: Which airlines let kids fly free?

Kids need an ID when flying internationally

International travel with an adult.

Every individual traveling outside the U.S. needs some form of identification. This could be a passport, passport card or birth certificate, depending on the destination.

Even though it’s possible to cross certain borders with a state-issued ID or to take a cruise without a passport , it’s still important to have some form of identification for every traveler. Almost all countries require a passport book, and if there’s a visa required to enter, children will need to apply for it, too.

If traveling to Canada , children under 16 can travel with a birth certificate or other proof of U.S. citizenship. Still, children should apply for their first passport if they plan to travel internationally at some point since it is necessary to visit most countries.

When a minor is traveling with one of their parents, it is wise to have a notarized letter of consent to avoid any issues at border control checkpoints. When a child is under the custody of one parent, custodial documents also work. Having this information is a good practice whether crossing a border by land or air.

» Learn more: Tips for traveling with toddlers

International travel as an unaccompanied minor

Similar to when traveling with a parent, unaccompanied children need documentation when flying internationally — typically a passport. There may also be additional requirements.

Some countries require kids traveling solo to have a letter of consent, so be sure to check with the airline and the embassy of the destination country. If connecting via a third country, be sure to verify any documentation that may be needed during transit.

Travel ID requirements for kids recapped

There may be additional measures adults have to take when traveling with children, depending on the destination. When it comes to carrying identification for children, domestic air travel is mostly seamless. But when crossing a border, there’s more complexity — especially if the child is unaccompanied or traveling with only one parent.

Children don’t have to carry identification when traveling domestically, but to play it safe — since airlines may have their own rules — it’s better to have more documentation than needed.

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On a similar note...

REAL ID deadline approaches. What it is, what you need to know in New York

The clock is ticking: There's just about a year in which to get an enhanced or REAL ID, for which you will need to board a flight within the U.S., or enter certain federal buildings including military bases, unless you have a passport or another federally-accepted form of identification.

The deadline was extended previously, in part due to COVID, from May 3, 2023 to May 7, 2025 .

Why REAL ID?

It's the law. These requirements are the result of the REAL ID Act, which was passed by Congress in 2005 at the 9/11 Commission's suggestion that the federal government "set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses," according to the Department of Homeland Security .

The act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards after the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.

Federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration, will be prohibited after the deadline from accepting driver's licenses and ID cards that do not meet federal standards.

In New York, one can currently get an enhanced ID, a REAL ID, or a standard driver's license, but the standard license is not compliant with REAL ID laws.

"The good news is that you do not have to wait to get a REAL ID or enhanced ID," said Mark J.F. Schroeder, commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, in a news release . "You can get one now at your local DMV office. We urge all New Yorkers who want to travel within the US to act now ... We don’t want any customers caught by surprise when they go to travel after the deadline."

Enhanced vs. REAL IDs

Enhanced documents are federal REAL ID compliant, and feature an image of the U.S. flag on them. REAL IDs issued by the state Department of Motor Vehicles have an image of a star on them.

Enhanced licenses include a radio frequency identification chip that allows authorities to see someone's biographic and biometric data at a border inspection booth from as far away as 30 feet. Those licenses also have a machine-readable zone or barcode that authorities can read electronically if the RFID chip system is not available.

The other main difference is enhanced IDs can be used to cross by land or sea the U.S border from Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries. This license can be used in lieu of a passport as an identity and citizenship document only in these instances; REAL IDs cannot. (Air travel to those nations will still require a passport .)

Enhanced IDs (either an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced non-driver ID card) also cost $30 more , in addition to the regular transaction fees.

REAL or enhanced IDs are not mandatory, and they are not necessary to be licensed to drive or vote.

What you need to secure a REAL ID

Getting either an enhanced or a REAL ID has more stringent requirements than getting a standard driver's license. One will need to prove both U.S. citizenship as well as New York state residency. Needed documents:

One proof of identity — this can be a current New York license, permit or non-driver ID card;
One proof of legal presence — a U.S. birth certificate, either an original or certified copy only, no hospital certificates;
Two proofs of New York state residency — this must show a full address, not a Post Office box. Acceptable are a New York license, permit or non-driver ID card; New York certificate of title; New York professional license; bank statement issued within the past year; utility bill from within the U.S. issued within the past year with name and address; credit card statement on letterhead, issued within the past year; or a property or school tax bill or receipt for the current year.
Proof of Social Security number (if one has been issued to you) — either a Social Security card or a current W2, paystub, 1099 or 1098 tax form showing the full number; and
Current driver's license if one is applying to exchange one issued by another state.

Additionally, if your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, proof of the name change must be submitted, such as a marriage certificate (not church-issued), a court-issued name change decree, or a divorce decree that states the previous name.

What's not accepted ? Commemorative Social Security cards (usually metal, needs to be original document); Medicare cards; Social Security stubs; hospital-issued birth certificates (must be from municipality where born); church-issued marriage certificate; medical bills; and college admission letters are not valid for ID verification purposes.

Story continues after gallery.

Which ID is right for me?

The Department of Motor Vehicles has a comparison chart of the features of a standard (current), enhanced and REAL ID card. The following questions will also help in making a determination:

Do you want to use your license (ID) to board a domestic flight?
Do you want to use your ID to enter a federal building or military base?
Do you want to use your ID to cross into the U.S., whether by land or sea, from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean?

Don't need or want a REAL ID?

Regardless of whether you get a standard, enhanced, or REAL ID driver's license, you will need proof of citizenship, residency and name, coming up with a value of at least "six points" in some combination to satisfy Department of Motor Vehicles requirements . The DMV has an online document guide and will walk you through what is needed .

Previous Gannett stories were used in this reporting.

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Do minors need identification to travel?

Each airline determines identification requirements for minors. Contact your airline well in advance of your travel date to determine if they have unique policies or procedures for minors.

Typically, minors under the age of 18 do not have to present identification for domestic U.S. travel. Airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult on behalf of the minor(s).

For international travel, minors under the age of 18 must present the same travel documents as the adult.

Please visit the Transportation Security Administration's website for more information.

Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age

A couple of times a year, I get a panicked message from a friend or reader who is about to take an airplane flight with their kids. Suddenly they’ve realized that they have no idea what kind of identification they need for their children to fly, if any. After a decade and a half of flying on hundreds of flights and dozens of airlines with my kids to destinations all around the world, I know this question can certainly be confusing!

In the United States, there are multiple entities that set the official legal rules and regulations governing air travel identification and documentation. Those can include Customs and Border Protection, the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Transportation Security Administration, and each specific airline.

So exactly what documentation is required to board an airplane with kids? As you might imagine, it depends! Here is all the information you need to make sure you have the right identification to travel aboard both domestic and international flights with kids.

Short on Time? Quick Answers in a Nutshell

Children under the age of 18 typically do not need ID to fly on domestic flights within the United States when accompanied by an adult. Airlines may require identification, however, in more unusual circumstances such as with very young infants, lap children, unaccompanied minors, or older teens flying solo. Identification – specifically a passport book but sometimes more – is always required for kids of any age to travel on international flights.

Identification Required for Kids for International Travel

Most travelers usually expect strict identification rules when it comes to international travel. If you are traveling internationally by air the answer to the question of whether kids need ID to fly is pretty simple. Yes! They do!

Not just any ID will suffice. Just as with adults, a passport book is required to fly with kids internationally no matter how young. If you have kids who are United States citizens, getting an official passport can be time-consuming and expensive. In addition, it requires some logistical steps that parents can mess up.

How to Get Passports in the US for Kids

Specifically, the consent of both parents is required for kids under age 16. That usually means both parents need to appear in person at a passport acceptance facility (like many post offices, local government offices, etc.). Alternatively, one parent can appear in person with a notarized statement of consent from the other parent. I got a notarized letter from my husband the last time we applied for our kids because his work schedule made it difficult for him to be available during the limited business hours passport acceptance facilities in our area were open.

Note also that you can’t just easily renew children’s passports by mail like you can for adults. The same in-person application process with both parents present is required. Plus kids under age 16 must renew passports every 5 years, instead of every 10 years for adults.

For that reason, I highly recommend starting the process of obtaining passports for your kids many months in advance of any international travel. After the paperwork is submitted, the process can take 2-3 months for a passport to arrive. Plus, it can often take many weeks before you can get an appointment to even submit the paperwork.

This obviously makes international travel with very young infants especially challenging, as it takes time to first get a birth certificate for the child and then apply for a passport.

Hopefully you are landing on this article in plenty of time to get your paperwork in order for your specific situation. But if not, there may be ways you can get what you need more urgently. You can pay a $60 extra fee to expedite a passport, which can cut several weeks off of standard processing times. And in more urgent situations, there is an even more expedited option available by applying at a passport agency (which can be done if a trip is within 14 days or less).

Special Note about International Land Crossings and Cruises

One reason some travelers misunderstand the air travel rules for kid identification is because the rules for kids crossing land borders and on some cruises can be different. For example, minors who are US citizens can cross into Canada by land with only a birth certificate.

On some closed loop cruises starting and ending in the United States going to destinations like Mexico, Canada, or many Caribbean countries, there are times when both kids and adults can technically travel without a passport using a birth certificate or passport card.

But none of these exceptions apply to international air travel. Don’t mix these rules up!

Child Travel Consent Form

Although a passport book is necessary to travel with kids on international flights, it isn’t necessarily fully sufficient. There are some times that other travel documents may be required – such as a visa for certain countries.

What is even more likely to trip up international travelers is the situation in which a child is traveling with only one parent or is traveling with another adult who isn’t a parent. In many of these circumstances, proof that both parents consent to the specific trip can be required. In these cases, the best practice is to carry a notarized letter of consent for the child to travel.

Some countries have very specific forms or formats that you need to follow. Mexico is one such example and historically has tended to be quite strict. My husband will likely be traveling solo with one of our kids to Mexico for a family wedding in a few months, and we are already planning to get the a letter of consent completed as an extra precaution.

Many countries don’t have clear cut rules that are easy to research. For example, I flew last summer to Italy (first entering the Schengen Area in Frankfurt, Germany) with both of my kids without my husband. I wasn’t able to get completely definitive information as to whether consent was required. As a result, we went ahead and had my husband complete a notarized letter of consent that I kept with me along with a copy of his passport. We weren’t asked to show it, but I breathed easier knowing I had it!

Unfortunately, profiling can and does occur depending on where you are traveling. So parents who don’t share the same last name as their children or who may appear to be another race or ethnicity may find they face extra scrutiny. The best way to avoid any surprises – just or not – is to err on the side of having this document even when it’s not necessarily required.

Identification Required for Kids for Domestic Travel

If you are traveling domestically, the answer to the ID question is a little more complicated but thankfully usually much easier. In most standard circumstances, identification is not required for minors for domestic travel within the USA. There are specific unique situations, however, where it can be.

What Identification is Needed at TSA Checkpoints?

For domestic travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not require you to have an ID for children under age 18 at the security checkpoint.

That said, TSA agents may well talk to your child to confirm their identity and to screen for cases of child abduction. Agents have asked my kids over the years for their names. In some circumstances, they’ve pointed to my husband or me and asked our children who we are. If you have kids who are shy or who take warnings of stranger danger to heart, let them know in advance of your trip that it’s ok for them to speak to these agents and to answer truthfully.

Related: Strategies for Speeding Through TSA Checkpoints with Kids

Special Situations Where Kids May Need ID for Domestic Travel

While the TSA won’t require identification for kids under age 18, many airlines have policies in specific circumstances where some form of ID will be required. It’s vital to know about these outlier circumstances so you don’t come to the airport unprepared.

Young Infants

A number of airlines have rules that prohibit or limit newborns from flying. Airline rules differ, with some airlines like Delta prohibiting newborns under 7 days old from flying on any flights. Others set limits only on international travel, including Southwest which limits infants 14 days old or younger from flying on international flights. Most airlines allow young infants under their age limits, however, to fly with a letter of permission from a physician.

Related: Essential Tips for Your Baby’s First Flight

If you are traveling with a newborn, it’s highly advised to bring a document like a birth certificate for proof of age. And if you are looking for an exception to an age minimum of any sort, a physician’s letter is essential.

Lap Children

When you are flying with a child who will be sitting in your lap (permitted for kids under age 2), having identification to prove age may be required. Some airlines will allow younger infants to board with no ID, as it’s normally obvious that very small babies are not yet near the maximum age cutoff. Families with older babies toddling and speaking always should carry proof of age no matter what the airline. Airline employees can ask at any time for proof to make sure the child is young enough to travel as a lap child.

Related: What to Consider before Flying with a Lap Child

If you are flying Southwest Airlines, however, do not leave ID at home no matter what the age of your lap child. Southwest is the only US carrier that absolutely requires identification of any and every lap child regardless of how old they appear. You’ll need to show it at the ticket counter to obtain a boarding verification document (that works like a boarding pass) for the lap child.

Are there some instances where passengers haven’t had to show documentation for their children on Southwest? For sure. But I’ve flown with a lap child on Southwest more than a dozen times, and I can assure you that every time I had to show proof of age, even with a kiddo as young as 4 months! You don’t want to chance this.

Related: Complete Guide to Flying Southwest with Kids

What kind of identification works for lap children? A simple copy of a birth certificate will usually suffice. No need to rush to the DMV to get your tot a state-issued ID card.

Birth certificates can, however, can take awhile to obtain after a child is born. If you need to fly with a young infant domestically, most airlines will also accept hospital discharge documentation or vaccination records from a pediatrician’s office. The key is that the document have the child’s date of birth on it. When in doubt, if you cannot obtain a birth certificate, call the airline you are flying beforehand to confirm alternatives.

Unaccompanied Minors & Minors Traveling Solo

Another circumstance in which identification may be required for a child is in the case of children flying alone. Again, each airline’s policy is different.

In this situation, age really matters. All US airlines permit older teens (usually ages 15+ but sometimes younger) to fly solo just like adults. And most of them also allow younger kids (often ages 5-14) to fly as unaccompanied minors by paying a fee for limited supervision by airline employees. Depending on the child’s age and circumstances, different documentation can be required.

For older teens under age 18 flying truly solo and not with an unaccompanied minor program, ID is almost always required. Since many kids in this age range won’t have a driver’s license or official government photo ID yet, some airlines (like United) will accept other forms of identification like a birth certificates or student IDs. Other airlines (like Delta), however, require that 15-17 year olds flying solo have the same kind of photo ID that is required of adults. So if your child doesn’t have a driver’s permit or license yet, you’ll likely need to pack a passport.

Younger kids flying as an unaccompanied minor may need some identification as well. This also varies based on the airline and the circumstance. For example, when my son flew earlier this year as an unaccompanied minor on Southwest, I had to show ID as his parent, but I was not asked to show identification for him. Officially, however, Southwest’s policy is that parents may need to show proof of age for the minor. We probably weren’t asked because I booked under my son’s Rapid Rewards account that includes his date of birth (and he clearly appears to be within the age range of the program).

Most other US airlines won’t ask for ID for unaccompanied minors in straightforward situations, but the important thing to note is that they can . So the safest course of action is to at least carry a birth certificate. I put a birth certificate in my son’s backpack anyway, so we were prepared!

Here are links to the relevant age and ID policies that may apply to minors flying solo or as unaccompanied minors on each major US airline:

Alaska Airlines
American Airlines
Delta Airlines
Frontier Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines
JetBlue Airways
Southwest Airlines
Spirit Airlines
United Airlines

Additional Identification Air Travel Tips

When in doubt, bring it : I know from lots of digging around fine print on the internet that it’s sometimes impossible to get a definitive answer about identification. When in doubt, I highly recommend you err on the side of packing more than you need rather than less. A passport book is the gold standard. For domestic travel an original birth certificate (with the raised seal) can be helpful in many circumstances too.
Keep extra copies on the cloud : Back in the pre-internet old days of travel, most of us traveled with extra passport copies in a separate bag in case we lost the original. In the digital age, having backups is easier than ever. I keep a copy on the cloud of passports and birth certificates for everyone in the family. That way, I can easily access everything on my phone in cases of emergency.
Take extra precautions in case of child custody disputes and divorce : It’s crucial in situations of divorce or shared custody that parents have all of their legal ducks in a row before boarding a plane with their child, even for a simple hop across state lines. As a former attorney myself, I strongly suggest you consult your own legal counsel. Always make sure travel is permitted and that you know what additional documentation you need to bring to avoid any potential issues.

The post Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age appeared first on Trips With Tykes .

A couple of times a year, I get a panicked message from a friend or reader who is about to take an airplane flight with their kids. Suddenly they’ve realized that they have no idea what kind of identification they need for their children to fly, if any. After a decade and a half of …

When Did the Government Start Requiring IDs to Fly.. and Why Did They Do It?

by Gary Leff on December 14, 2015

An airline can’t very well sell cheap early and expensive close-in if customers could buy those same tickets cheaply in advance and then resell them to other customers at a profit — while still undercutting an airline’s price — close to departure.

As a result airlines have long wanted requirements for passengers to have to show ID in order to use airline tickets, in order to make airline tickets non-transferable.

Frequent flyers used to travel under each others’ names all the time, to gain the benefits of status for each other and to help each other earn points. ID requirements limit the ability to do that, although they don’t make it impossible.

But when did the ID rule become a government requirement?

According to Richard A. Clarke, former National Security Council member in the Reagan administration, chief counter-terrorism adviser on the National Security Council in the Clinton administration, and Special Advisor to the President on cybersecurity in the George W. Bush administration, the rule was a ‘do something’ reaction during the Clinton administration in response to TWA flight 800, before anyone had any idea what had happened to the aircraft.

In his book, Against All Enemies , he wrote that President Clinton planned to see the families of victims of the airline disaster.

The ID requirement is one of the things his staff came up with:

Like much of the Patriot Act 5 years later, ID requirements were a pet idea that many people wanted to implement already and used a crisis as justification.

And the ID requirement, like the No Fly List , wasn’t actually enshrined in law but rather by executive fiat.

(HT: Papers, Please )

More From View from the Wing

About Gary Leff

Gary Leff is one of the foremost experts in the field of miles, points, and frequent business travel - a topic he has covered since 2002. Co-founder of frequent flyer community InsideFlyer.com, emcee of the Freddie Awards, and named one of the "World's Top Travel Experts" by Conde' Nast Traveler (2010-Present) Gary has been a guest on most major news media, profiled in several top print publications, and published broadly on the topic of consumer loyalty. More About Gary »

What information do I need to apply for a Real ID?

Updated: May. 03, 2024, 3:37 p.m. |
Published: May. 03, 2024, 3:00 p.m.

A sign at the federal courthouse in Tacoma, Wash., is shown on April 6, 2016, to inform visitors of the federal government's REAL ID Act, which requires state driver's licenses and ID cards to have security enhancements and be issued to people who can prove they are legally in the United States. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File) AP

Paul Liotta | [email protected]

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Traditional state-issued ID cards will no longer be acceptable for federal purposes, including domestic flights, starting next May for adults, but there is still time to secure an ID that meets the new requirements.

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, enacted the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation for the federal government to “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses and identification cards,” according to the Department of Homeland Security .

The law and subsequent regulations established minimum security standards for licenses and other ID cards, while prohibiting federal agencies from accepting noncompliant cards for certain official purposes, including the boarding of commercial aircraft.

After years of delayed implementation, beginning May 7, 2025, anyone 18 years and older who plans to fly domestically or visit certain federal facilities will need a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, including a passport.

Compliant state IDs can be obtained at the any New York Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) location, but people hoping to update their documentation will need to collect some paperwork first.

The DMV lists the following documents needed to obtain a Real ID or Enhanced ID:

Proof of identity, such as valid license, birth certificate or passport, with your full first, middle (if applicable) and last name. This name will be displayed on your card as required by federal law.
Proof of Social Security Number or Social Security Number ineligibility. If you have a valid N.Y. license, permit or ID card, you must bring your original Social Security card or W-2 with full SSN. If you do not have a New York State driver license or identification card, you must bring your Social Security Card or a letter from the Social Security Administration proving your ineligibility to have a social security number.
Proof of your date of birth.
Proof of U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency or temporary lawful status in the United States.
Two different proofs of New York State residence, such as utility bill, bank statement or mortgage statement (a P.O. Box not acceptable).
If the name on your license, permit, or non-driver ID application does not match the name on your proof of identity, lawful status and Social Security, you must bring in court- or government-issued proof documenting the event causing your name change(s), such as a marriage license, divorce decree, adoption, or court-order document.

For more information on obtaining a Real ID or Enhanced ID, visit the DMV website.

Both the Real ID and Enhanced ID will allow travelers to board domestic flights and enter some federal buildings.

However, Enhanced ID’s will also allow residents to cross United States land and sea borders from Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, without the need for a passport.

Enhanced ID’s do not authorize air travel between these countries, strictly land and sea travel. Passports are still required for all international flights.

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Quick tip: Documents needed when flying with a lap child

Although my family is now out of the lap infant phase, having my children fly with me for free up until they were 2 years old was my favorite way to save money (and points) on our family vacations. I felt comfortable with this decision, although I know that it is not for everyone for a variety of reasons.

Since we typically fly Southwest (hello, Companion Pass !), there was almost always an empty seat for my son and daughter when they were lap infants. (If you're new to flying with an infant, check out TPG's flying with a baby checklist and how to plan award travel with an infant or lap child .)

For more travel tips and news, sign up for our daily newsletter.

While most frequent flyer parents know that the magic age range to fly as a lap child is from birth until the day before they hit their second birthday, what some may not know is that all U.S.-based airlines — and most likely international airlines as well — technically require you to prove your child's birthday. Of course, many airlines will not ask for documentation on any given trip but if they do, you want to be prepared. Not having the proper documentation could require you to purchase a seat for your infant and same-day ticket prices can be quite astronomical (assuming there is even still availability on your flight).

Note that if you are traveling internationally, your infant must also have his or her own passport — whether they are a lap infant or are in their own purchased seat.

Documentation required for lap infants

To prove your child's age to an airline, one of the following documents will suffice:

Child's passport ( how to get a U.S. passport for an infant and things to know about children's passports )
Child's birth certificate
Child's immunization form or other medical records may also work domestically

When my children were in the lap infant age range, I always kept a copy of their birth certificates in the front pocket of both my and my husband's suitcase. This way, we always had it with us to show the ticket agent. Keeping an electronic copy on your smartphone isn't a bad idea, either.

Will the airline actually ask for documentation?

In the United States, nine out of 10 times, you won't be asked for proof of age on most airlines when flying with a lap infant. With that being said, there is a very specific exception to that general rule. Southwest Airlines almost always asks for proof — even if your child clearly looks under 2. I was even asked by a Southwest agent for proof when my son was just a 10-pound baby. It is Southwest's policy to check for age verification on lap infants regardless of appearance, so be prepared with an appropriate age-verification document.

Friends or acquaintances may tell you that age verification is not required for your lap child, but that is absolutely not true. While children don't need an ID for TSA , to fly as a lap infant and document to the airline that they are indeed under 2 years old, you need to be prepared. If you actually purchased a seat for your child, no identification is required since you don't need to prove they are under 2.

Related: Surviving a flight with children of every age

Bottom line

Unless you are flying on Southwest Airlines, the chances of being asked for some sort of identification for your lap infant on a domestic flight is slim (especially if they still look like a baby), but you are better safe than sorry. As always, in the realm of family travel, you want to be over-prepared with documents , not under-prepared.

Have you ever flown with a lap child? What was your experience with documenting their age?

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Travel ID gives you access to the digital channels of the Lufthansa Group airlines and Miles & More.

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Simple: single login with your email address.
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Clear: personal data, current information and recommendations relating to your booking at a glance.
Individual: customised offers for you.
Plus: all the benefits of Miles & More if desired.

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By activating Miles & More for your Travel ID. You can do this when you register or (in a few weeks’ time) retroactively in your Travel ID profile. You will then earn miles and Points when you book with your Travel ID or enter your Miles & More service card number during the booking process.

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Your password must be different from your user ID and it must not be one you have used before. In addition, it must contain:

a minimum of 8 characters
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Why was my email address not accepted during registration?

Your email address is probably associated with a Travel ID account already. An email address cannot be used for more than one account, so you need to register with a different email address.

Alternatively, you can reset your password and use your existing account.

Why has my activation link for Travel ID expired/why is it not valid?

Your Travel ID activation link is valid for 24 hours. After this time, you will have to restart the registration process to receive a new activation link.

Why haven’t I received an email with an activation link?

Please check your spam folder. If there is no email with an activation link in your spam folder, please register again.

Why isn’t my Travel ID active?

Before you can log in with your Travel ID, you must click on the activation link. You can find this link in the email which was sent to the Travel ID email address you provided.

What can I do if I’ve forgotten my login details?

Click on "Forgotten password", enter your Travel ID email address, and follow the instructions.

What are my login options for Travel ID?

Depending on the type of Travel ID you have (with or without Miles & More), you have the following login options:

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Why can’t I log in?

Your profile may not have been activated yet.

If it has been less than 24 hours since you registered, check your inbox and your spam folder. You will find an email there with the activation link. If it has been more than 24 hours since you registered, register again and activate your Travel ID with the link we send you by email.

Can I log into other Lufthansa Group airlines using my Travel ID?

Yes. In the future, you will be able to log into all of the Lufthansa Group airlines. These include Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, SWISS, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings, and Discover Airlines.

Why can I no longer log into my Lufthansa iD profile?

Lufthansa iD was taken offline on 31.1.23. Lufthansa iD has been replaced by Travel ID. If you missed this news, please create a new Travel ID.

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First of all, you need to add your new email address to your profile under "Contact details". Confirm the change using the activation link which we send you by email. Go back into your Travel ID profile and move the confirmed email address to the top of the list.

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Can I add an email address to my Travel ID account which is already being used for another Travel ID account?

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You can opt out of your data being used by deactivating "Consent to personalised communication" in your profile under "Communication settings".

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Why doesn’t the flight i have already booked appear under “my bookings”.

Your booking appears automatically in your Travel ID profile if you make the booking while you are logged into lufthansa.com or you are using the Lufthansa app. You can also add a booking to your account at any time later on.

How do I add a flight to the bookings in my Travel ID account?

Log into lufthansa.com with your Travel ID. Click on your name in the top right corner. A menu will appear. Select "My bookings". You will be taken to your bookings, where you will be able to add bookings.

The Fight Over Airport Facial Recognition: Senators Clash With U.S. Travel

Dawit Habtemariam , Skift

May 2nd, 2024 at 2:11 PM EDT

Over a dozen lawmakers have vocalized opposition to the adoption of facial recognization technology at U.S. airports.

Dawit Habtemariam

A group of U.S. Senators on Thursday pushed to restrict the use of facial recognition at airports – an effort that comes as more than 80 U.S. airports use the biometric technology with plans for expansion to more than 400.

“This technology poses significant threats to our privacy and civil liberties, and Congress should prohibit TSA’s development and deployment of facial recognition tools until rigorous congressional oversight occurs,” said the letter to Senate leadership .

The Senators – Republicans and Democrats – want to add restrictions to the bill to authorize funding for the FAA , which is currently being debated in Congress.

TSA says the technology enhances security and improves traveler convenience .

Some American airlines have partnered with TSA to use biometric data to make it easier for travelers to move through airports. Delta partnered with TSA to develop a digital ID program that allows travelers to use their biometrics to get through bag drop, screening and check-in without a physical ID.

Senators Warn of Surveillance Risks

The senators warn of a slippery slope. Once Americans become comfortable with government facial-recognition scans at airports, the government could expand surveillance – say, tracking entry into public property like parks, the letter said.

The group of lawmakers also argued that biometric technology doesn’t make air travel safer. Lawmakers said TSA doesn’t have evidence that it has caught more travelers using fake IDs thanks to their facial recognition technology.

U.S. Travel Calls on Industry Action

The U.S. Travel Association, an industry trade group, favors the expansion of facial recognition and wants to block changes to the FAA bill that slow it down.

Banning biometric air traveler screening tech would: 🕒 Increase checkpoint wait times ❌ Block TSA PreCheck & Touchless ID solutions 🔓 Lower security 🗑️ Waste millions of taxpayer dollars Act NOW to preserve TSA PreCheck & lower security wait times! https://t.co/U34arxgAmW — U.S. Travel (@USTravel) April 30, 2024

In an email blast earlier this week to its Travel Action Network , U.S. Travel called on its newsletter subscribers to voice their opposition to a potential amendment by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and John Kennedy (R-LA).

“We’ve had thousands of letters that have gone up to the Hill,” Tori Barnes, executive vice president of public affairs and policy for the U.S. Travel Association, told Skift on Wednesday.

“We do see this as a very dangerous bill that would undermine aviation security, delay millions of flyers, and set TSA passenger screening back decades,” said Barnes. “Frankly, biometrics is the future of air travel screening.”

Merkley rejected U.S. Travel’s claims that the loss of facial recognition would lead to longer wait times. In a post on X, Merkley cited TSA’s own research on the issue.

🤔 What an interesting thing for @USTravel to tweet, considering that @TSA itself says opting out of facial recognition won’t result in longer wait times for travelers: https://t.co/v6SPBkYbS7 pic.twitter.com/acuOn5pUgC — Senator Jeff Merkley (@SenJeffMerkley) May 1, 2024

“While Americans are generally supportive of allowing biometric use for a more seamless and smooth air travel process, about half of all Americans are uncomfortable sharing their biometric data with both the government and private corporations,” a survey by the U.S. Travel Association found .

But among recent air travelers, the share that are comfortable with biometric data with both the government and private corporations exceed 60%, U.S. Travel found.

U.S. Travel’s Push for More Biometrics at Airport

Biometric adoption is part of U.S. Travel’s overall push to make air travel more seamless and smooth. At Skift Global Forum in September, U.S. Travel Association CEO and President Geoff Freeman said getting through TSA screening lines at airports is a bottleneck to growing trave l.

The lack of biometric security screening adoption at most American airports has put the U.S. at a competitive disadvantage with other destinations, according to research by the trade group.

About 60% of airports plan to install biometrics through their facilities in the next five years, including check-in and boarding, according to a global survey by Amadeus, a travel IT tech firm.

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Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

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Tags: airline , biometrics , tourism

IMAGES

State driver licenses, IDs valid for air travel until 2020
By October 2020, You’ll Need REAL ID or Your Passport to Fly in U.S
REAL ID requirement for air travel extended by 19 months
Federal officials extend deadline for Real ID as requirement for air travel
REAL ID license: Everything you need to know before October 2020 when
Get ready for tougher ID to travel by air

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COMMENTS

Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint
Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint. Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel. Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID compliant. If you are not sure if your ID complies with REAL ID ...
TSA Real ID FAQs: A Complete Guide To Requirements
REAL ID's will be required of all air passengers soon. October 2023 is the latest deadline set by the federal government. Beginning on October 1, 2023, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the ...
Digital ID
Add your state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone's digital wallet. Or download a TSA approved digital ID app to your mobile device. Present your ID at select TSA checkpoints by tapping your phone or linked device or scanning the app issued QR code. Your photo will be taken by the TSA reader at security to ...
REAL ID requirements are coming. Here's what U.S. fliers need to ...
The REAL ID Act was introduced in 2005 in an effort to tighten the nation's air travel security in the wake of the September 11 attacks. The deadline for REAL ID compliance has been repeatedly ...
REAL ID: What You Need to Know for Air Travel
There are a few other forms of ID beyond a REAL ID, passport or EDL that can be used to board a domestic flight, including: DHS trusted traveler ID. Passport card. Border crossing card. Permanent ...
REAL ID: US travelers will need more secure ID to fly by late 2020
Better make sure soon. On October 1, 2020, travelers will need a "REAL ID-compliant" driver's license, US passport, US military ID or other accepted identification to fly within the United ...
REAL ID
Washington Post: Real ID requirement for air travel delayed, again December 5, 2022 Americans will have until May 2025 to obtain a Real ID driver's license or identification card, the latest of several delays. Fox Business: Homeland Security pushes back REAL ID deadline to 2025 December 5, 2022 ...
REAL ID deadline: How to get one, documents to bring and more
According to the Department of Homeland Security, REAL ID-compliant identification will be required in specific instances beginning on May 7, 2025. There have been several deadlines in the past ...
Virginia residents will need a REAL ID to board an airplane starting
Travelers will start to notice new signs at airports nationwide to remind people that REAL ID-compliant licenses or other acceptable forms of ID, such as a valid passport, federal government PIV card or U.S. military ID, will be mandatory for air travel beginning on May 7, 2025, Burke explained.
Deadline for Real ID for air travel pushed back because of pandemic
MediaNews Group / via Getty Images. The Department of Homeland Security will delay the requirement for air travelers to have a Real ID-compliant form of identification, pushing it back 19 months ...
Traveling To Mexico With A Real Id
As you can see, a passport card is very affordable, especially compared to a passport book.It's a great travel document for quick trips to Mexico and other nearby destinations. Conclusion. With the Real ID deadline fast approaching, U.S. citizens planning to travel to Mexico by air need to ensure they have an acceptable form of ID like a Real ID driver's license, passport, or passport card.
Documents accepted for domestic travel
Social Security card and credit card. Government-issued birth certificate and health club membership card. Voter registration card and check cashing card. Airman's certificate and other airline ID. See the types of documents and photo identification that Alaska Airlines accepts for travel on our domestic flights.
Do Kids Need ID to Fly? It Varies, Here's How
Domestic travel with an adult. When flying domestically, both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) confirm that kids younger than 18 don't ...
Oregon Department of Transportation : Real ID Information : Oregon
Federal identification requirements for domestic air travel will change on May 7, 2025. That is when the Transportation Security Administration will no longer accept a standard Oregon driver license or ID card to pass through airport security checkpoints. ... Other ID options for air travel: The TSA and other secure federal locations such as ...
REAL ID in NY: What you need to know, how to obtain one, why it matters
(Air travel to those nations will still require a passport.) Enhanced IDs (either an enhanced driver's license or an enhanced non-driver ID card) also cost $30 more , in addition to the regular ...
Do minors need identification to travel?
Contact your airline well in advance of your travel date to determine if they have unique policies or procedures for minors. Typically, minors under the age of 18 do not have to present identification for domestic U.S. travel. Airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult on behalf of the minor(s).
Can You Fly With An Expired ID? TSA Policies And Alternatives
One of the most commonly used alternatives to an expired ID is a passport. A passport is a travel document issued by your country of citizenship that serves as proof of identity and citizenship. Unlike a driver's license or state ID, a passport does not have an expiration date, making it a reliable form of identification for air travel.
Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Travel Identification Info for Every Age
Additional Identification Air Travel Tips. When in doubt, bring it: I know from lots of digging around fine print on the internet that it's sometimes impossible to get a definitive answer about ...
AZ Travel ID: Will Your License Fly?
The Arizona Travel ID is the credential that complies with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. It is available as both a driver license and identification card. There is a star embedded in the card to show that the cardholder has provided added proof of identification to ensure the license or ID meets strict federal requirements.
When Did the Government Start Requiring IDs to Fly.. and Why Did They
ID checks began as security theater after TWA flight 800, President Clinton asked for things he could announce right away. Airlines used to ask for ID to make sure the person traveling was the one that bought the ticket, solely to restrict the resale market for airfare in order to support revenue management systems that increased the price of travel closer to departure (to prevent people from ...
Can you fly without an ID? What to do if you lose your ID ...
The short answer is yes. If you're catching a domestic flight within the US and your ID is lost, stolen, or you left it at home, you might be in luck. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has other ways of confirming your identity using publicly available databases, so there's a good chance you'll be allowed on your flight ...
Arizona Travel ID
The Arizona Travel ID is the credential that complies with the federal REAL ID Act of 2005. It is available as both a driver license and identification card. There is a gold star embedded in the card to show that the cardholder has provided added proof of identification to ensure the license or ID meets strict federal requirements. For more ...
What information do I need to apply for a Real ID?
Enhanced ID's do not authorize air travel between these countries, strictly land and sea travel. Passports are still required for all international flights. More travel news.
Travel ID
What is Travel ID? From booking to check-in and beyond - with Travel ID, you can now travel even more easily. It is your login for all our digital services. You can use it to quickly and easily access your data and enjoy relevant information and personalized services at any time. And that's with any airline in the Lufthansa Group.
Travel ID
Additional benefits with Miles & More. Earn miles and points with 40 airline partners. Become a frequent flyer and enjoy privileges. Earn miles that can be used for hotel and car rental bookings with lots of suppliers. Redeem miles on flight awards or other travel awards. To Travel ID registration.
The documents you need to fly with a lap infant
Documentation required for lap infants. To prove your child's age to an airline, one of the following documents will suffice: Child's passport ( how to get a U.S. passport for an infant and things to know about children's passports) Child's birth certificate. Child's immunization form or other medical records may also work domestically.
Travel ID FAQs
Lufthansa iD was taken offline on 31.1.23. Lufthansa iD has been replaced by Travel ID. If you missed this news, please create a new Travel ID. If you have active bookings, you can add them to your Travel ID profile under My Bookings.
PDF myIDTravel User Guide and FAQ
Employees must carry company issued identification. In addition, government issued ID is also required by all airlines prior to check in. I am aware that I should have my company ID with me at all times when using a discount offered to company employees 4. Reservations are not allowed with interline tickets. I am aware that when
What happened to Discovery Networks?
Despite these changes, you can continue enjoying top live sports on ESPN, FS1, ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, NFL Network and more. Plus a broad mix of entertainment, lifestyle, travel and reality content on Hallmark Channel, National Geographic, Nat Geo Wild, Smithsonian Channel, Curiosity Stream, Tastemade, GustoTV, Oxygen, Bravo, USA, GAC Family and others.
The Fight Over Airport Facial Recognition
Dawit Habtemariam. A group of U.S. Senators on Thursday pushed to restrict the use of facial recognition at airports - an effort that comes as more than 80 U.S. airports use the biometric ...