Don’t get caught off guard at the airport! Here’s the knowledge on what you need to breeze through security for domestic travel in the U.S.
Must-have IDs for Domestic Flights
If you’re flying within the U.S. and you’re 18 or older, the TSA wants to see a valid ID before you board. Here’s a quick cheat sheet of what works (TSA.gov):
- State driver’s licenses
- State-issued ID cards
- U.S. passports
- U.S. military IDs
If you’re under 18, relax—no ID is needed if you’re traveling with someone else.
| Age Group | ID Needed? |
|---|---|
| 18+ | Yes |
| Under 18 | No, if with a companion |
The REAL ID Countdown
Circle May 7, 2025, on your calendar. That’s the day your standard state-issued ID or driver’s license won’t cut it unless it sports a little star—the mark of REAL ID. No star? No problem, but grab another acceptable ID, like a passport.
Got a question about your ID? DMV websites are your friends. Rules differ by state, so check in to see if you’re good to go.
| Info | Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Deadline for REAL ID | May 7, 2025 |
| REAL ID Mark | Star on top of the card |
| Other Options | Passport, Military ID, etc. |
If your ID’s out of date, don’t stress too much—the TSA will take expired IDs for up to a year after they go bad. Still, best to play it safe and keep your ID current.
Travel Documentation for U.S. Permanent Residents
Knowing what you need for smooth domestic travel can save you from a headache later. Here’s the inside on the REAL ID and what’s expected when you’re moving the road or skies as a U.S. Permanent Resident.
Starting May 7, 2025, if you’re a U.S. Permanent Resident and want to catch a domestic flight, you’ll need to show off a REAL ID-compliant piece of identification at the airport.
That means a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, passport, or an enhanced driver’s license will do the trick. The REAL ID matters because it meets the federal guidelines for security—no ID, no boarding the plane if you’re 18 or older.
To see if your ID qualifies, just ask your state’s DMV (TSA.gov). Checking this ahead of time keeps your travel efforts frustration-free.
U.S. Resident Travel Guidelines
Travel rules exist to keep things running smoothly. Here’s a quick checklist for U.S. Permanent Residents:
- Identification: Beyond that REAL ID we’ve talked about, the following also work:
- Passport
- Enhanced Driver’s License
- Types of ID You’ll Need:
| Type of ID | Real ID-Compliant | Age Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| REAL ID Driver’s License | Yes | 18+ |
| Passport | Yes | All ages |
| Enhanced Driver’s License | Yes | 18+ |
- Extra Tips: Keep your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) along with your main ID. It’s especially handy if you’re planning a longer trip or heading to a place with ramped-up security.
Feel free to explore your world—just remember to keep that REAL ID handy! Safe travels!
