Employment Authorization Document now valid for domestic flights in US

Key Takeaways

• EAD card (Form I-766) is accepted for domestic flights as an alternative to REAL ID starting May 7, 2025.
• REAL ID or another government-approved photo ID is required for all travelers 18 and older on domestic flights.
• Children under 18 do not need ID; passports, Green Cards, and foreign passports are also valid identification for adults.

Travelers often have questions about the documents needed for air travel within the United States 🇺🇸, especially as new rules like REAL ID enforcement take effect. This FAQ provides clear and detailed answers about the use of the Employment Authorization Document (EAD card), REAL ID, and other acceptable forms of identification for boarding domestic flights. The information below addresses common concerns, explains each requirement in simple language, and helps people confidently prepare for their journeys within the United States 🇺🇸.

Most Popular Questions

1. Is an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) accepted for domestic flights instead of REAL ID?
2. What exactly is REAL ID, and when is it required for air travel?
3. What other identification documents can travelers use if they do not have a REAL ID?
4. Who needs to show identification for domestic flights?
5. What should travelers do if they do not have any of the listed documents?
   6. How does REAL ID enforcement affect foreign nationals, immigrants, or children?
6. Where can travelers find official lists and detailed rules about acceptable identification?

1. Is an Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) accepted for domestic flights instead of REAL ID?

Yes, the Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) is an approved form of identification for domestic flights. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require travelers to show a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or another acceptable form of identification for all domestic travel in the United States 🇺🇸. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Employment Authorization Document (Form I-766) is one of the documents listed as acceptable in place of a REAL ID.

– If you have an EAD card, which is the plastic card showing you can work in the United States 🇺🇸, you can use it at airport security for domestic flights.
– This option is especially important for people who may not have a REAL ID-compliant state ID or driver’s license.

Note: You do not need to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license if you already have an EAD card and plan to use it for identification when flying within the United States 🇺🇸.

2. What exactly is REAL ID, and when is it required for air travel?

REAL ID is a form of driver’s license or state-issued ID card that meets higher security standards set by federal law. These rules were created to make it harder to use fake ID cards at airports and other secure areas.

• Beginning May 7, 2025, all people traveling by air within the United States 🇺🇸 must show a REAL ID-compliant license/ID, or another approved identity document, at TSA security checkpoints.
• REAL ID cards usually have a star at the top right corner.
• If you only have a standard state ID or driver’s license (not REAL ID), it will not be accepted for flying domestically after May 7, 2025.
• Travelers need either a REAL ID or another accepted form (like a passport, EAD card, or permanent resident card) to board domestic flights.

For information about REAL ID, visit the Department of Homeland Security’s REAL ID page.

3. What other identification documents can travelers use if they do not have a REAL ID?

TSA accepts many kinds of government-issued identity documents as alternatives to a REAL ID. Here are the main options:

• Employment Authorization Document (EAD card, Form I-766): Lets you work in the United States 🇺🇸 and is approved for air travel.
• U.S. passport or passport card: Either is always accepted.
• DHS trusted traveler cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST cards are approved.
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card, Form I-551): For lawful permanent residents.
• Foreign government-issued passport: For travelers who are not U.S. citizens.
• U.S. Department of Defense ID: For active duty and retired military, and dependents.
• Border crossing card: Approved for certain travelers.
• Federally recognized, tribal-issued photo ID: Issued by Native American tribes.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC): Used by workers at airports, ports, and other secure places.
• U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential: Used by members of the merchant marine.

If you have any of these, you do not need a REAL ID to get through airport security for domestic flights.

Important: Copies or expired versions of these documents are not accepted. Always use the original, valid document.

4. Who needs to show identification for domestic flights?

• Adults 18 years and older always need to show an acceptable government-issued photo ID at TSA airport security checkpoints.
• Children under 18 do not need to show identification when traveling within the United States 🇺🇸 with a companion on domestic flights.
  • The adult traveling with the child will need valid identification.
  • Airlines may have their own rules for minors traveling alone, so always check with your airline.

5. What should travelers do if they do not have any of the listed documents?

If you show up at the airport without a valid, accepted form of identification, the TSA has a process to confirm your identity, but this can take extra time.

• TSA officers may ask you to provide your name, address, and other information to prove who you are.
• You might have to answer questions or show other forms of paperwork.
• If TSA cannot confirm your identity, you will not be allowed to board your flight.
• It is always best to bring an accepted photo ID for domestic flights.

To avoid problems or delays, make sure you have the right ID before you travel.

6. How does REAL ID enforcement affect foreign nationals, immigrants, or children?

Foreign Nationals and Immigrants:
– Many foreign nationals do not have U.S. driver’s licenses or REAL ID-compliant IDs.
– Immigration documents such as the Employment Authorization Document (EAD card, Form I-766), Permanent Resident Card (Green Card, Form I-551), and foreign passports are all accepted for domestic flights.
– This makes it possible for visitors, students, workers, and other non-citizens to fly within the United States 🇺🇸 without difficulty, as long as they have the right document.

Children:
– Children under 18 traveling with an adult on a domestic flight do not need to show any identification.
– The responsible adult must show their own valid and accepted ID.

Examples:
– A college student from another country with an EAD card can use it to fly from New York to Los Angeles without needing a U.S. driver’s license or REAL ID card.
– A family immigrating to the United States 🇺🇸 can use their foreign passports to board domestic flights.

7. Where can travelers find official lists and detailed rules about acceptable identification?

The TSA keeps an updated list of all acceptable forms of identification for domestic flights. It’s best to check the official website before traveling, especially as rules can change.

• The full list is available at the TSA identification page.
• State driver’s license offices also provide detailed guidance about REAL ID compliance.
• Information about REAL ID, including requirements and frequently asked questions, is available at the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page.

VisaVerge.com’s investigation reveals that the Employment Authorization Document is specifically listed as an acceptable alternative to REAL ID for domestic air travel in several government and industry sources.

8. Are there common misunderstandings about REAL ID and domestic flights?

Yes, many people are confused about the changes and requirements. Here are some clarifications:

• A regular (not REAL ID-compliant) driver’s license will not work for domestic flights after May 7, 2025.
• You do not need both a REAL ID and a passport or immigration document. Any one approved ID will work.
• The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is just as valid for TSA screening as a passport or REAL ID.
• Foreign passports are also accepted, even for people who are not U.S. citizens.
• Children under 18 are not required to provide ID for domestic flights (but check with your airline if your child is flying alone).

9. What’s the difference between using an EAD card and a REAL ID for domestic air travel?

• EAD Card:
  • Issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Shows that you are allowed to work in the United States 🇺🇸.
  • Contains your photo, alien registration number (“A-Number”), card number, and expiration date.
  • Accepted for domestic flights.
• REAL ID:
  • Issued by your state’s motor vehicle agency.
  • Is a state driver’s license or ID card that meets federal rules.
  • Usually has a star in the top right corner.
  • Also accepted for domestic flights.

You can use either of these documents at the airport as proof of who you are. The choice depends on what you already have.

10. Is it better to get a REAL ID, or will an EAD card be enough?

It depends on your needs:

• If you already have a valid EAD card, it is enough for domestic flights within the United States 🇺🇸. You do not have to get a REAL ID unless you want to drive and need a driver’s license, or for convenience.
• If you prefer to carry a state-issued ID, getting a REAL ID may be easier in daily life, but it is not required if you have other accepted documents.

People who do not drive and already have valid immigration documents do not need to pay for a separate REAL ID card just for flying domestically.

Summary: Key Things to Remember

• Beginning May 7, 2025, all travelers 18 and older must show either a REAL ID or a different approved photo ID to board domestic flights in the United States 🇺🇸.
• The Employment Authorization Document (EAD card, Form I-766) is officially listed as an acceptable alternative to REAL ID.
• Other approved documents include U.S. passports, foreign passports, permanent resident cards, and several specialized IDs.
• Children under 18 do not need ID for domestic flights if traveling with an adult.
• Lost or missing ID at the airport may keep you from flying, so always double-check your documents before your trip.
• For official rules and the most current requirements, visit the TSA’s ID requirements page.

For more information about immigration documents and travel in the United States 🇺🇸, consult VisaVerge.com and official TSA or Department of Homeland Security websites. Always plan ahead and check the latest guidance before your trip to make sure your travel goes smoothly.

Learn Today

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) → An identity card (Form I-766) from USCIS allowing non-citizens to work legally in the United States; accepted for domestic flights.
REAL ID → A state-issued license or ID meeting federal security standards required for domestic flights from May 7, 2025 onward.
TSA (Transportation Security Administration) → U.S. agency responsible for security at airports and transportation systems, including enforcing ID requirements at checkpoints.
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) → An identification card (Form I-551) for lawful permanent residents, accepted for air travel within the United States.
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards → Identification cards like Global Entry, SENTRI, or NEXUS issued for expedited travel by the Department of Homeland Security.

This Article in a Nutshell

Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must present a REAL ID or another approved photo ID for domestic flights. The EAD card (Form I-766) is officially accepted by TSA, providing an alternative for those without a REAL ID. Children under 18 don’t need ID when traveling domestically with adults.
— By VisaVerge.com

Read more:

• Qatar Airways adds more flights to Toronto and São Paulo in major boost
• JetBlue Drops $199 Europe Summer Flights
• Thai Airways reroutes Europe flights due to India and Pakistan conflict
• Air Canada launches 13 new flights to Latin America for winter 2025-26
• Gulf Air to resume United States flights after nearly 30 years