Can you get on an airplane without an ID?


Can you get on an airplane without an ID? According to the TSA, passengers who show up at the airport without a Real ID-compliant form of identification after May 7, 2025, will not be allowed through the security checkpoint. That means that, in theory, TSA officers will no longer work with travelers who forget their ID to confirm their identity in other ways.


How can I travel without photo ID?

In the event you arrive at the airport without proper ID, because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly. By providing additional information, TSA has other ways to confirm your identity, like using publicly available databases, so you can reach your flight.


Do flights accept digital ID?

Yes. Currently, all passengers must continue to have their physical IDs on hand. If a digital ID cannot be verified at the TSA security checkpoint, a passenger must use an acceptable physical identity document (e.g., driver's license, passport) to proceed through the identity verification process.


Can I fly in Canada if I lost my ID?

If you don't have an identification document that includes your photo, full name and date of birth: Show two pieces of identification issued by a Canadian federal, provincial or territorial government that show your name. One of these documents must show your full name and date of birth.


Can you get digital ID?

Digital Identification Download a TSA approved digital ID app to your mobile device. Scan in your state-issued driver's license or state ID. At select TSA PreCheck® checkpoints, scan the app issued QR code. Your photo will be taken by the TSA reader at security to proceed to screening.


Should I call the airport if I lost my ID?

Come prepared with additional forms of identification (credit card, photo business card, student ID, even mail or prescription medication with your name and address). Once the airline representative is satisfied that you are who you say you are, they will issue a boarding pass with a note that you don't have an ID.


Do airports check ID?

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.


What can you use instead of an ID to get on a plane?

Here are some alternative documents to try if you lost your driver's license:
  • U.S. passport.
  • U.S. passport card.
  • DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents.
  • Permanent resident card.
  • Border crossing card.


Do airports accept ID on iPhone?

At select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints, you can use your iPhone or Apple Watch to present your license or ID.


Can you fly while pregnant?

During a healthy pregnancy, occasional air travel is almost always safe. Most airlines allow you to fly domestically until about 36 weeks of pregnancy. Your ob-gyn can provide proof of your due date if you need it. If you are planning an international flight, the cut-off for traveling may be earlier.


Can you fly with a picture of your passport?

Absolutely not. A passport must be physically presented. It's originality is checked at the immigration of destination countries as also the VISA stamps.


What documents do I need to fly?

Standard driver license, permit or non-driver ID card
a Federal REAL ID driver license, permit or non-driver ID card. Remember, you will need a Passport to fly to other countries.


Can I fly with just a passport?

The U.S. passport book and U.S. passport card are both accepted as ID for domestic flights. You may not have heard about the U.S. passport card before. The passport card cannot be used for international air travel, but it is still a great ID to have in your wallet.