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Can I fly within the U.S. without a passport?

Domestic Flights. All travelers flying on a domestic flight must present a valid (unexpired) photo ID issued by the state or federal government. Undocumented individuals may use the following forms of ID accepted by TSA: State photo identity card.



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Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, state-issued enhanced driver's license, or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.

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Beginning May 3, 2023, U.S. travelers flying within the United States will need to show Transportation Security Administration agents either a security-enhanced driver's license that's Real ID-compliant or another T.S.A.-approved form of identification like a passport.

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Without a passport, you may fly to any of the 50 states and territories in the United States. If you don't have a passport, different identification options are accepted, including a US passport card, a driver's license, and a DHS trusted traveler card.

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However, if a passenger does not possess a Real ID, there are other forms of identity that will be accepted. This list includes US passports and permanent residence cards. Undocumented immigrants may therefore be able to fly domestically as long as they hold an approved form of identification on this list.

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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.

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Wear clothing and shoes without metal, and be ready to remove your belt if it has a metal buckle. Tuck large metal jewelry pieces into your carry-on bag before you go through the security checkpoint. Put change and keys into your carry-on or empty your pockets into a plastic bin when you arrive at the checkpoint.

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REAL ID Resources - U.S. Department of Homeland Security extended the REAL ID deadline an additional year to May 7, 2025. Current Illinois driver's licenses or ID cards will continue to be accepted at airports, military bases and secure federal facilities until May 7, 2025.

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You can travel without a passport in the following countries: Puerto Rico. US Virgin Islands. Northern Mariana Islands.

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The most likely scenario is that you will be prevented from boarding transport by the staff on duty. If you managed to avoid that situation, you could be blocked from entering your destination by border authorities upon arrival. Generally, it is necessary to have a valid passport if you want to travel abroad.

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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.

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As a U.S. Commonwealth, Puerto Rico is considered domestic travel from the continental Unites States, just as long as you don't touch down in a foreign place or port before arriving. You will, however, be required to show a state-issued photo I.D. card, such as a driver's license or a non-driving photo I.D.

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However, if your license has expired for more than a year, you will need to obtain a new one from the FAA. However, you will need to present a valid form of identification to the TSA agent at the airport security checkpoint. Acceptable forms of ID include a passport, driver's license, or state-issued ID card.

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