Key Takeaways
• Minors under 18 do not need ID or REAL ID at TSA checkpoints for domestic U.S. flights after May 7, 2025.
• Adults 18+ must present REAL ID or accepted identification to board domestic flights starting May 7, 2025.
• Airlines may require additional documents for unaccompanied minors; always verify policies before traveling.
The purpose of this FAQ is to help travelers, especially those flying with children under 18, understand the rules about identification when flying within the United States 🇺🇸. The information explained here is based on official sources, and focuses strongly on the REAL ID rules, how they impact minors, and what adults and families should expect at the airport. The answers cover the most common questions about identification for minors and the upcoming changes starting May 7, 2025, as well as what parents and guardians should know to avoid any issues with the Transportation Security Administration.
Most Popular Questions
Do minors under the age of 18 need a REAL ID to fly domestically within the United States 🇺🇸?
No, minors under 18 do not need to have a REAL ID or show any ID at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints when flying domestically within the United States 🇺🇸. The Transportation Security Administration allows children under 18 to travel without showing identification if they are flying with an adult who can provide acceptable ID.
What is the REAL ID, and why is it important for air travel?
REAL ID is a special type of driver’s license or identity card that follows security standards set by the United States 🇺🇸 government. Starting May 7, 2025, adults (18 and older) must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another accepted form of identification (like a passport) to board a domestic flight in the United States 🇺🇸. The Transportation Security Administration will check for these at security checkpoints.
Will these new rules about REAL ID change for minors after May 7, 2025?
No. Even after May 7, 2025, minors under 18 will still not be required by the Transportation Security Administration to show a REAL ID or any form of identification when flying domestically, as long as they are accompanied by a traveling adult with valid ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What age is considered a minor when flying in the United States 🇺🇸?
A minor is anyone under 18 years old when traveling within the United States 🇺🇸. This age limit comes from the rules followed by the Transportation Security Administration.
2. Are there exceptions where a minor would need to show ID to the Transportation Security Administration?
Usually, no. The main rule is that minors under 18 do not need to show ID to the Transportation Security Administration when flying domestically. However, some airlines could have their own policies, so it is smart to check with your airline before flying, especially for older minors traveling alone.
3. What if a minor is flying alone? Does the REAL ID rule apply?
If a minor flies without an adult, the Transportation Security Administration does not require them to show ID, even after the REAL ID rule takes effect. However, airlines often have special rules for “unaccompanied minors” and may ask for a birth certificate or another document to prove the child’s age or identity at check-in. These airline rules are separate from the REAL ID requirement. Always check directly with your airline for their policy.
4. Do international flights have different rules for minors and REAL ID?
Yes. The rules for flying internationally are different. All travelers, regardless of age, usually need a valid passport to board an international flight from the United States 🇺🇸. REAL ID is for domestic flights only.
5. What forms of ID are accepted by the Transportation Security Administration for adults?
Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration will accept the following forms of identification for adults (18 or older):
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs for dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
For the full and updated list, visit the official Transportation Security Administration identification page.
6. What does a REAL ID look like, and how can I tell if my license is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID has a star at the top of the card. If your driver’s license or state ID does not have this star, it may not be accepted for domestic flights after May 7, 2025. If you are not sure, check your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website or ask at your local DMV office.
7. What happens if an adult forgets their REAL ID at the airport starting May 7, 2025?
Adults (18 and older) who do not have a REAL ID or another form of accepted identification will not be allowed to board a domestic flight. The Transportation Security Administration has strict rules, and only people who show accepted ID can pass through the security checkpoint.
If you have forgotten your ID but still need to fly, the Transportation Security Administration may allow you to go through an identity verification process, but this is not always guaranteed and can take extra time.
8. If a child is traveling with someone other than a parent, do they need ID?
The Transportation Security Administration does not require children under 18 to show ID, even if they are traveling with someone who is not their parent. However, some airlines may want to see proof that the child’s parent gave permission for the trip. This might be a written letter, a copy of the child’s birth certificate, or both. Always check with your airline and consider getting written consent from the parents, especially if the adults traveling are not legal guardians.
9. What if my family is traveling with children of different ages, including teens close to 18?
Any traveler who is 18 years old or older must have a REAL ID or another accepted form of identification to fly domestically, starting May 7, 2025. If someone turns 18 before flying, even if the ticket was bought earlier, they need to follow adult ID rules. If the person is still 17 on the day of travel, the minor rule applies.
10. Are there risks in not bringing any ID for minors, even if it’s not required?
While not required by the Transportation Security Administration, sometimes ID can be helpful:
- If your child is a young teen who looks older, airline staff may want to check age.
- If your child has a medical condition or special need, carrying identification can help in emergencies.
- If your child is flying without you or with friends, the airline often asks for some proof of age or identity.
11. Do airlines require a REAL ID for minors, even if the Transportation Security Administration does not?
No airline requires minors under 18 to show a REAL ID for domestic flights, but they may have special rules for teens flying alone or for other situations (like custody issues). Always check your airline’s policy ahead of time.
Myths and Misunderstandings
Myth: “Every person, including babies and children, must have a REAL ID to fly after 2025.”
– Fact: Only adults 18 and over need to show a REAL ID or accepted ID at the Transportation Security Administration security checkpoint for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025. Minors under 18 do not need to show ID.
Myth: “A REAL ID is the same as a passport.”
– Fact: A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or ID card that meets new security standards. It is not a passport and it cannot be used for international travel.
Myth: “Minors never need to bring any documents to the airport.”
– Fact: The Transportation Security Administration does not require it, but airlines sometimes do. Stay safe by checking the airline policy and bringing an ID or copy of a birth certificate, just in case.
Examples and Scenarios
Example 1: Sarah, age 16, is flying from California to New York with her parents. She does not need to show any ID at the Transportation Security Administration checkpoint, but her parents must have a REAL ID if the trip is after May 7, 2025.
Example 2: Liam, age 15, is flying alone from Chicago to Miami. The Transportation Security Administration does not ask for his ID, but the airline asks to see his birth certificate at check-in. His parents provided the airline with all the forms needed for “unaccompanied minor” travel.
Example 3: Grace, age 17, looks older than her age. The airline agent asks for her birth certificate to verify she is under 18 and not subject to REAL ID rules yet. She is able to board without delay because her family came prepared.
What steps should families take to avoid problems when traveling with minors domestically?
- Adults should make sure they have a REAL ID or another accepted form of ID if traveling after May 7, 2025.
- Check the airline’s requirements for children, especially if anyone under 18 will fly alone or with someone who is not a parent.
- Bring a copy of the minor’s birth certificate or another simple document to help answer age-related questions from airline staff.
- If a child has a different last name than the adult they travel with, bring extra documents like a birth certificate or consent letter.
- Arrive at the airport early to allow time for any age verification or extra paperwork.
Where can I get more information or official guidance?
Visit the Department of Homeland Security REAL ID page for the most up-to-date rules on REAL ID. For exact airline requirements for minors, check the website of the airline you plan to fly with or call customer service. The Transportation Security Administration website also has clear explanations for all ID rules at the airport.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, understanding the rules for minors and REAL ID is important to make family trips easier and avoid surprises at the airport. The Transportation Security Administration’s rules do not require minors under 18 to show identification, but planning ahead and checking with airlines can help families travel with confidence.
Summary
- Minors under 18 do not need to show REAL ID or any identification at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints for domestic flights in the United States 🇺🇸.
- Adults (18 and older) must have a REAL ID or an accepted alternative to board a domestic flight after May 7, 2025.
- Airline policies may differ, so always check ahead of time for rules about identification for minors, especially unaccompanied children.
- A minor’s age on the day of travel decides if REAL ID rules apply.
- International travel always requires a passport, regardless of age.
- Bringing extra documents, like a birth certificate, is wise even if not required.
- For more help, visit the official government and airline websites or reach out to their customer service departments for up-to-date information.
Staying informed and prepared will make domestic air travel safe and stress-free for both minors and adults.
Learn Today
REAL ID → A state-issued driver’s license or ID card meeting U.S. federal security standards, required for adult domestic air travel after May 7, 2025.
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) → A U.S. government agency responsible for airport and transportation security, checking ID and screening passengers at checkpoints.
Unaccompanied Minor → A child under 18 flying domestically without a parent or legal guardian, often subject to special airline documentation requirements.
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards → Special identification cards from the Department of Homeland Security, like Global Entry and NEXUS, accepted at TSA checkpoints.
Birth Certificate → An official document showing a child’s age and identity, sometimes required by airlines for verifying minors’ eligibility for travel.
This Article in a Nutshell
Traveling in the U.S. with children? After May 7, 2025, only adults need REAL ID at TSA for domestic flights. Minors under 18 don’t need identification at checkpoints, but airlines may require additional documents for unaccompanied minors. Always check your airline’s policy and bring supplementary papers to prevent last-minute issues.
— By VisaVerge.com
Read more:
• Apply for a French Republic Long-Stay Visa for minors attending school
• U.S. Deportation Flight to Costa Rica Includes Many Minors Among 135 Aboard
• ICE Gains Access to Unaccompanied Minors Database, Raising Concerns
• Trump Administration Aims to Access Immigrant Minors Database
• Employing Minors in Grocery Stores: Regulations and Safety
