What do I need to fly with a 5 year old?

For domestic flights, children under 18 typically do not need personal identification. The ID of the accompanying responsible adult will suffice. (Note: The new rules on REAL ID-complaint cards that go into effect in May 2025 only apply to travelers age 18 and older.)



People Also Ask

Typically, minors under the age of 18 do not have to present identification for domestic U.S. travel. Airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult on behalf of the minor(s). For international travel, minors under the age of 18 must present the same travel documents as the adult.

MORE DETAILS

Planning your trip
  • Infants on lap. Children under two can sit on a parent's lap during flights to any destination.
  • Infant seats. Alternatively, infants can have their own seat if you bring an approved car seat.
  • All other kids. Children older than two will need a ticket and their own seat on the plane.


MORE DETAILS

Airplane Checklist: Everything You Need When You're Flying With Kids
  • Car Seat. A car seat is an important essential when you're traveling with an infant. ...
  • Diapers and Wipes. These are two no-brainers when it comes to flying with a baby. ...
  • Hand Sanitizer. ...
  • Extra Clothes. ...
  • Food or Milk. ...
  • Blanket. ...
  • Toys.


MORE DETAILS

Carry documents for traveling with minor children. If you are escorting a minor child without the parents, have a letter from both parents indicating that you have permission to travel with the minor. If the child is accompanied by only one parent, the parent should have a note from the child's other parent.

MORE DETAILS

All children, including infants, must have their own passport or Trusted Traveler Program document for U.S. entry. Carry documents for traveling with minor children. If you are escorting a minor child without the parents, have a letter from both parents indicating that you have permission to travel with the minor.

MORE DETAILS

A minor travel consent form is a legal document, signed by a child's parents and/or legal guardians, giving permission for the child to travel with another adult. Any time a child travels abroad without both parents and/or legal guardians, they need to have this written permission.

MORE DETAILS

A Child Travel Consent is sometimes called a letter of permission to travel. A Child Travel Consent essentially proves to the transportation providers and Custom Officers that both parents or legal guardians give the child authorization to travel by providing their signatures.

MORE DETAILS

Most U.S. airlines will permit children who have reached their fifth birthday to travel unaccompanied. Kids ages 5 through 11 who are flying alone must usually travel pursuant to special “unaccompanied minor” procedures. On some airlines, these procedures are required for unaccompanied children as old as 14.

MORE DETAILS

Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

MORE DETAILS

All travelers must have a passport book for international air travel. Please note that hospital-issued birth certificates, voter registration cards, and affidavits cannot be used. If you were not born in the United States, you can use your original Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship.

MORE DETAILS

Spirit Airlines reserves the right to request documented proof of age for any passenger 2 years of age or younger. You must be prepared to provide documentation (such as the child's birth certificate or passport) upon request.

MORE DETAILS

You'll need to show that your parent or guardian consents to your travel and accommodation arrangements. If you do not need a visa to travel, you'll need to prove this at the border. If you do have to apply for a Standard Visitor visa, you'll need to identify the adult travelling with you in your visa application.

MORE DETAILS

A child travel consent form allows a minor to travel alone or with another person or group. It is written by one or both parents and can be used for domestic or international travel.

MORE DETAILS

Legal Framework for International Travel with a Child Unless you have sole custody, you'll generally need the other parent's consent to take your child out of the country. Even if it's relatively easy to leave the United States with your child, you'll need to prove parental approval for the country you're visiting.

MORE DETAILS