What ID You Actually Need to Fly in the United States

You need a government-issued photo ID to fly, but a driver's license is not the only option

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires every passenger 18 and older to show a valid government-issued photo ID at airport security. A driver's license works, but it is not mandatory — you have other choices. A passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or state ID card will all get you through security just as easily. If you do not have any of these documents, you can still fly, but the process takes longer and involves additional steps.

The key requirement is that your ID must be current and show your photograph and full name. The name on your ID must match the name on your airline ticket. Expired IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints, but some airlines may refuse to let you board if your ID is expired, so checking with your airline before you travel is wise.

Key Takeaways

TSA requires a government-issued photo ID at security, but a driver's license is one of several acceptable options.
Passports, passport cards, military IDs, tribal IDs, and state ID cards all meet TSA requirements.
If you have no photo ID, you can still fly by going through TSA's additional identity verification process, which takes 10 to 15 minutes longer.
Your ID name must match your airline ticket name exactly, or you will be denied boarding.
Some states now issue REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses and ID cards, which are required for domestic flights starting in 2025.

What counts as valid government-issued photo ID for flying

TSA accepts a wide range of documents. A standard driver's license from any U.S. state or territory works. So do a state-issued ID card (sometimes called a non-driver ID), a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID card, a retired military ID, a Department of Veterans Affairs ID, a Tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe, and an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID card.

If you are a permanent resident or have a visa, your Permanent Resident Card (green card) or foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa will work. TSA also accepts certain other documents: a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential, and a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).

The document must be current — not expired — though TSA's official rules state that an expired ID is technically acceptable. However, individual airlines may have stricter rules, so contact your airline if your ID is expired.

Flying without a driver's license or any photo ID

If you have no government-issued photo ID at all, you can still fly. At the TSA checkpoint, tell an officer that you do not have ID. The officer will ask you to step aside and will conduct an identity verification process. This involves answering questions about your background — your address history, previous addresses, family members, or financial accounts — that only you would know. The TSA uses this information to confirm your identity against databases.

This process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes longer than a standard security screening. You will still need to provide your airline confirmation number or booking reference. Once TSA confirms your identity, you proceed through security normally. The airline will still need to see some form of identification at the gate, so bring any document with your name on it — a birth certificate, Social Security card, school ID, library card, or even a utility bill with your name and address.

Not all airports handle this process the same way, and some are slower than others. If you are flying without ID, arrive even earlier than usual — at least three hours before a domestic flight.

REAL ID requirements starting in 2025

Beginning May 7, 2025, TSA will require all passengers to present either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card, or an alternative document like a passport or military ID. A standard driver's license from a state that has not yet implemented REAL ID will no longer be accepted for domestic flights.

Most states have already issued REAL ID-compliant licenses and ID cards. You can check whether your state's ID meets the requirement by looking for a small star or marking in the upper right corner of your license. If your license does not have this marking, you will need to renew it at your state's DMV and request the REAL ID version, or you will need to bring a passport or other alternative document when you fly.

Getting a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card requires an in-person visit to your state's DMV. You will need to bring proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Processing times vary by state but typically take two to four weeks.

Making sure your ID matches your airline ticket

Your full name on your ID must match your full name on your airline ticket exactly. If your ticket says "Robert James Smith" but your ID says "Bob Smith," you may be denied boarding. Spaces, hyphens, and middle initials all matter.

If you recently changed your name — through marriage, divorce, or legal change — update your name with the airline before you fly. You can usually do this online through the airline's website or by calling their customer service. Bring the legal document that proves your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) to the airport just in case.

If you notice a mismatch after you have already booked your flight, contact the airline when ready. Most airlines allow you to correct the name on your ticket for free if you catch it before you check in.

International flights and passport requirements

For flights leaving the United States, you must have a valid passport. A driver's license alone will not work for international travel. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates for most countries, though some nations require longer validity.

If you are flying to Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, you may also use a passport card, an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), or a NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST card if you have one. These documents are accepted for land and sea travel to those destinations, but not for air travel — so for flights, stick with a passport or passport card.

If you do not yet have a passport, you can explore at your local passport acceptance facility (usually a post office, courthouse, or library). Standard processing takes four to six weeks; expedited processing takes two to three weeks but costs extra. If you are traveling soon, look for an expedited passport service in your area, though these are typically more expensive.

What to bring to the airport if you are unsure

If you are uncertain whether your ID will work, bring multiple forms of identification. Bring your driver's license or state ID card, your passport if you have one, and any other government-issued photo ID you own. Bring a birth certificate as well — it is not photo ID, but TSA agents can use it to help verify your identity if there is a question.

If your name has changed recently, bring the legal document proving the change. If you are traveling with children, bring their birth certificates or passports. Arrive at the airport earlier than you normally would — at least two hours for a domestic flight — to give yourself time to resolve any ID issues at the checkpoint.

Check your airline's website before you travel. Some airlines have their own ID requirements that are stricter than TSA's, and a few regional carriers have specific rules about which documents they accept.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired driver's license to fly?

TSA technically accepts expired IDs at security checkpoints, but your airline may refuse to let you board with an expired license. Contact your airline before you travel to confirm their policy. If your ID is expired, bring a passport or other current ID if you have one.

What if my name on my ID does not match my airline ticket?

You will likely be denied boarding. Contact the airline when ready to correct your ticket name. If you cannot reach them before your flight, arrive very early and explain the situation to the gate agent — some airlines can make corrections at the gate, but this is not may provide.

Do I need a REAL ID to fly right now?

No, not until May 7, 2025. Until then, a standard driver's license works. After that date, you will need either a REAL ID-compliant license, a passport, a military ID, or another alternative document. Check your license for a small star to see if it is already REAL ID-compliant.

Can I use a school ID or work ID to fly?

No. TSA requires government-issued photo ID. A school ID or work ID will not work at security, though you can bring them as backup documents. If you have no government ID, you can still fly by going through TSA's identity verification process.

What documents do I need to get a REAL ID-compliant license?

You will need proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Visit your state's DMV in person. Processing typically takes two to four weeks, so explore well before you need to fly.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.