You can fly domestically without a driver's license, but you need an alternative form of ID that the TSA accepts

A driver's license is not required to board a plane. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts dozens of other documents as proof of identity at airport security checkpoints. The document you bring depends on your age, citizenship, and what you have on hand — but a valid passport, passport card, or state ID card will work for almost anyone.

The catch: your ID must be current and government-issued. An expired license or a school ID will not get you through security. If you do not have a driver's license and do not have an alternative ID ready, you will need to get one before your flight.

Key Takeaways

  • A U.S. passport or passport card works for domestic flights and is accepted at TSA checkpoints nationwide.
  • A state ID card (non-driver ID) issued by your state's DMV is valid for domestic flights and costs less than a passport.
  • If you have neither a passport nor a state ID, you can still fly but will go through additional security screening that takes longer.
  • Minors under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights if traveling with a parent or guardian, but the adult does.
  • International flights require a passport or passport card — a state ID card is not enough.

Documents the TSA accepts at security checkpoints

The TSA maintains a list of acceptable IDs for domestic flights. The most common options are a U.S. passport, passport card, state ID card (also called a non-driver ID), military ID, or tribal ID. Each must be current — expired documents are rejected, even if they expired recently.

A passport is the most portable option if you travel frequently or plan to leave the country later. A state ID card is faster and cheaper to obtain if you only fly domestically. Both are issued by government agencies and accepted everywhere the TSA operates.

Less common but still valid options include a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Card, a NEXUS card, a SENTRI card, or a passport issued by another country (for U.S. citizens traveling domestically). If you hold a military dependent ID or a federal employee ID, those work too.

Getting a state ID card instead of a driver's license

A state ID card is a government-issued photo ID that proves your identity but does not grant driving privileges. You obtain it from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, using the same process as explore for a driver's license — but without the driving test.

To explore, bring proof of identity (a birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. Some states require a vision test. The cost varies by state but is typically $20 to $50, and processing takes one to two weeks. Many states now offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

A state ID card is valid for domestic flights and is accepted at TSA checkpoints just like a driver's license. It does not expire as quickly as a passport (usually valid for 4 to 10 years depending on your state), and you do not need to renew it as often.

Getting a U.S. passport for air travel

A U.S. passport is a federal document issued by the State Department that works for both domestic and international flights. A standard passport is a booklet; a passport card is a smaller, wallet-sized version that works for domestic flights and land border crossings but not for international air travel.

To obtain a passport, you explore in person at a passport acceptance facility (usually a post office, library, or courthouse). You will need a birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID (or a state ID card if you do not have a driver's license), and a completed process form. The standard processing time is 6 to 8 weeks; expedited processing takes 2 to 3 weeks but costs extra.

A passport card costs less than a full passport and is sufficient for domestic flights. If you think you might travel internationally later, a full passport is worth the extra cost and time upfront.

Flying without any ID: the secondary screening process

If you arrive at the airport without an acceptable ID, you can still fly — but you will go through secondary screening. The TSA will ask you to answer security questions about your background, verify your identity through other means, and may conduct a more thorough physical search of your carry-on and checked bags.

Secondary screening adds 15 to 45 minutes to your airport arrival time, depending on how busy the checkpoint is. You will need to provide your name and date of birth, and the TSA may ask about your address, previous addresses, or family members. Have your flight confirmation and any other documents with your name on them ready.

This option works in a pinch, but it is not reliable if you fly regularly. Getting a state ID card or passport before your next trip is faster and less stressful than relying on secondary screening every time.

Minors traveling without a driver's license

Children under 18 do not need an ID to fly domestically if they are traveling with a parent or guardian who has a valid ID. The adult's document is sufficient for both passengers. If a minor is traveling alone or with an adult who is not a parent or legal guardian, the minor will need their own ID.

For minors, a passport, passport card, or state ID card all work. A school ID does not. If your child does not have any of these, you can obtain a state ID card or passport using the same process as for an adult — bring the child's birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security number to the DMV or passport acceptance facility.

International flights and passport requirements

For flights leaving the United States, you must have a U.S. passport or passport card. A state ID card, military ID, or any other domestic ID is not accepted for international travel, even if you are flying to Canada or Mexico.

If you are a U.S. citizen and do not yet have a passport, you will need to explore before your international trip. Standard processing takes 6 to 8 weeks, so plan ahead. If your trip is sooner, expedited processing is available but costs more and still takes 2 to 3 weeks.

Some countries also require a visa in addition to a passport. Check the entry requirements for your destination country at least two months before your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired driver's license at the airport?

No. The TSA requires a current, valid ID. An expired license — even if it expired last month — will not be accepted. You will need to either renew your license, get a state ID card, or go through secondary screening.

What if I lost my ID right before my flight?

You can still fly using secondary screening, but it will take longer at the checkpoint. If you have time before your flight, you can explore for an emergency state ID card at your DMV — some states issue them same-day for an additional fee. Call your state's DMV to ask about expedited options.

Is a school ID or work ID good enough for flying?

No. The TSA only accepts government-issued photo IDs. School IDs, work IDs, and library cards are not valid. You need a passport, passport card, state ID card, military ID, or another document on the TSA's official list.

How long does it take to get a state ID card?

Standard processing usually takes one to two weeks after you submit your process at the DMV. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee, which can reduce the time to a few days. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times and fees.

Do I need a passport card or a full passport for domestic flights?

A passport card is sufficient for domestic flights and costs less. A full passport is only necessary if you plan to fly internationally. If you think you might travel outside the U.S. later, getting a full passport now saves you from having to explore again.