If you’re 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 U.S. citizens to use other forms of ID for domestic flights. However, as of May 7, 2025, REAL ID enforcement is now in effect in accordance with the REAL ID Act. It’s imperative to check if your state’s ID meets these 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 REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license, is sufficient for domestic air travel. In other words, using your passport as a government-issued photo ID is possible but not mandatory. Your REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver’s license, for instance, is sufficient to board your domestic flight.
After May 7, 2025, TSA requires travelers 18 and older to present a REAL ID-compliant card or another TSA-approved form of ID (such as a valid U.S. passport, passport card, Enhanced Driver’s License, or DHS Trusted Traveler card like Global Entry) to proceed through security checkpoints. Standard state-issued driver’s licenses that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel.
What do you need to fly without a passport?
As a U.S. citizen, you can use various forms of identification for domestic flights. The most common TSA-approved alternatives to a passport include:
- REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or state-issued ID
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont
- DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID (active duty or retired military)
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Canadian provincial driver’s license (in certain contexts)
- Foreign government-issued passport
For the complete and most current list of acceptable identification, check TSA’s official acceptable ID page.
Can I still fly in the US without a REAL ID?
As of May 7, 2025, REAL ID enforcement is now in effect at TSA checkpoints. If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, you can still fly domestically by presenting another TSA-approved form of identification, such as a valid U.S. passport, passport card, Enhanced Driver’s License, or DHS Trusted Traveler card.
If you arrive at the checkpoint without any accepted form of ID, TSA offers an identity verification option called Confirm.ID for a fee (currently around $45), though approval isn’t guaranteed and the process can cause significant delays. To avoid complications, always travel with an accepted form of identification.
What is a Real ID?
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver’s license or identification card that meets enhanced federal security standards established by the REAL ID Act. It’s required for domestic air travel and access to certain federal facilities. REAL IDs are designed to enhance security by verifying the identity of cardholders using stricter authentication processes during issuance. You can identify a REAL ID by looking for a star symbol (or state-specific variant) in the top corner of the card.
To obtain a REAL ID, you’ll need to apply in person at your state DMV and bring documents proving your full legal name and date of birth (such as a birth certificate or valid passport), Social Security number (card, W-2, or pay stub), and two proofs of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Check your state DMV website for exact requirements, fees, and to book an appointment.
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 that can be mixed and matched
- 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 and a backup payment method
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.
Frequently asked questions
Apply at your state DMV (in person for most states) and bring documents proving your full legal name and date of birth, Social Security number, and two proofs of residency. Check your state DMV page or the DHS REAL ID map for exact requirements, fees, and to book an appointment.
Processing times vary by state, but you’ll usually get a temporary ID at your DMV appointment and your REAL ID mailed in about 10-15 business days. Some states may mail faster or offer same-day issuance at special centers.
Yes, an Enhanced Driver’s License meets REAL ID standards and is accepted at TSA checkpoints. EDLs are currently issued only by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont and also let you re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean by land or sea.
No. REAL ID is only for federal facility access and domestic air travel identification. You still need a valid passport book or card for international air travel and cruises.
If you show up without a REAL ID or another accepted ID, TSA will offer an identity verification option (Confirm.ID) for a fee (reported at $45), but approval isn’t guaranteed and the process can take extra time. To avoid delays or fees, use an accepted ID or obtain a REAL ID before traveling.
No, temporary DMV paperwork generally isn’t accepted at TSA checkpoints. If you don’t have your physical REAL ID, bring another TSA-approved form of ID such as a passport or Global Entry card.
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? The short answer is no, but you do need a REAL ID-compliant state ID or another TSA-accepted form of identification as of May 7, 2025.
Your passport works perfectly for domestic flights if you have one, but it’s not required. A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, Enhanced Driver’s License, or DHS Trusted Traveler card will get you through security just as easily. The key is making sure whatever ID you bring meets current TSA requirements.
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 in January 2026. 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
