If you are wondering whether you need a passport to fly domestic, this guide is for you. Typically, traveling domestically by air does not require a passport. TSA allows US citizens to use other forms of ID for domestic flights. However, this will soon evolve (2025) in accordance with the Real ID Act. It is thus imperative to check if your state’s ID meets these minimum-security requirements before traveling domestically.
Do you need a passport to fly domestically in the U.S.? Not necessarily.
Your passport doesn’t need to be valid.
No passport pages are required.
And no visa is needed.
As a U.S. citizen, you can use your government-issued photo ID, like your driver’s license, to fly within the U.S.
Wondering about REAL ID? You can still fly domestically without one until May 7, 2025.
And no special authorization is required for flights within the U.S.—this includes trips to territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Wherever you go, KAYAK is here to help you travel smart. Because every trip starts with a plan—and we’ve got yours.
Do I need a passport to fly domestic in the U.S.?
Passport Needed?
Not necessarily
Blank pages needed
None
Passport validity
None
Visa tourist needed
No
Quick answer: No. A government-issued photo ID, such as a state-issued ID card, is sufficient for domestic air travel. In other words, using your passport as a government-issued photo ID is possible but not mandatory. Your state-issued driver’s license, for instance, is sufficient to board your domestic flight.
What do you need to fly without a passport?
As a US citizen, you can use various forms of identification, as you do not need a passport to fly domestically within the US. Aside from the passport, you can use the following documents:
- Border crossing card
- DHS trusted traveler cards
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Driver’s license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Permanent resident card
- State-Issued Drivers License or State-Issued ID
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Can I still fly in the US without a REAL ID?
Yes. The REAL ID compliance to board domestic flights begins on May 7, 2025.
What is a Real ID?
A REAL ID is a U.S. government-issued identification card that meets enhanced security standards. It’s required for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities. REAL IDs are designed to enhance security by verifying the identity of cardholders using stricter authentication processes, and are distinguishable by a star symbol on the card.
Do I need any authorization to fly within the U.S.?
The KAYAK travel tips to enjoy your trip within the U.S.
To make the most of your trip and ensure an enjoyable experience, consider these travel tips.
What are the essentials to pack in your suitcase?
Here are some recommended travel essentials to consider when packing for a trip within the US:
- Versatile clothes
- Travel essentials like toiletries, snacks, and extra socks
- Electronics such as extra adapters and portable chargers
- Entertainment essentials like headphones
- Financial essentials like credit cards
What are the best National Parks to visit in the U.S.?
Now that you know you do not necessarily need a passport to travel within the US, here are some of the best national parks to visit in the U.S. besides Yellowstone, known for their breathtaking landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities, including:
- Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
- Zion National Park (Utah)
- Yosemite National Park (California)
- Acadia National Park (Maine)
- Glacier National Park (Montana)
- Arches National Park (Utah)
The 5 U.S. cities to (re)discover
Since you do not need a passport to fly in the US, plan to visit some of the top 5 cities without doubts and stress.
Do I need a passport to fly domestic: Bottom line
This guide has answered one of the burning questions – do I need a passport to travel in the US? And for the perfect flight, don’t forget to check out our tips to make sure your luggage meets the requirements and what to do on a plane (especially important on long flights)!
The foregoing article was last updated on the 20th of February 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency, or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
Sources:
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification
https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/passports/forms-fees/Real%20ID%20Infographic_2022%20Update.pdf
https://help.cbp.gov/s/article/Article-980?language=en_US
https://www.usa.gov/visit-territories
