Do Kids Need a REAL ID to Fly? What Parents Need to Know?

If you're planning air travel with your children after May 7, 2025—the REAL ID enforcement deadline—you may be wondering: Do kids need a REAL ID to fly? The short answer is no, but there are some important details every parent and guardian should know before heading to the airport.

Read more: Who Needs a REAL ID? What Happens If I Don’t Have One?

Do children traveling within the U.S. need REAL ID

Do Kids Need a REAL ID to Fly?

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), children under 18 years old are not required to show identification when flying domestically within the United States, as long as they are traveling with a companion. This applies to flights on or after the REAL ID enforcement date of May 7, 2025.

However, the adult traveling with the child will need to present a REAL ID-compliant license or another TSA-accepted form of identification at security checkpoints.

What Are the Rules for Children Flying Domestically?

Here’s a breakdown of what’s required when flying with minors in the U.S.:

The Rules for Children Flying Domestically

*TSA doesn’t require ID for minors, but airlines may require documents for unaccompanied children. Always check with the airline.

REAL ID Deadline: What Changes in 2025?

Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will enforce the REAL ID requirement for all passengers 18 and older flying domestically. This means:

• Adults must present a REAL ID-compliant license or other TSA-accepted ID.

• Children can still fly without showing ID, as long as they’re with a REAL ID-compliant adult.

Read more: What is REAL ID? And When is the REAL ID Deadline?

What Identification Do Airlines Require for Kids?

While TSA doesn’t require ID for children, individual airlines may have their own policies, especially for:

• Unaccompanied minors

• Children with different last names than their accompanying adult

• International travel

Commonly Requested Documents:

• Copy of birth certificate

• Passport (for international flights)

• Consent letters (if flying with only one parent or guardian)

Always contact your airline before booking to confirm what they require for minors—especially if your child will be flying alone.

Who Needs a REAL ID on Family Trips?

Let’s say you're flying as a family after May 7, 2025. Here's what you’ll need:

• Adults (18+): REAL ID or another TSA-accepted ID (e.g., passport, military ID, Global Entry card).

• Children (under 18): No ID required by TSA, but airlines may have documentation requirements.

If you're the adult traveling with kids, you’re the one who must be REAL ID-ready. If you’re not, you won’t be allowed to go through TSA security, even if your children are cleared to board.

What About International Travel With Children?

REAL ID cannot be used for international travel. If you’re flying outside the U.S., everyone—including infants and children—must have a valid passport.

Some destinations may also require:

• Parental consent forms (if one parent is not present)

• Visa documentation

• Proof of relationship (such as birth certificates)

Tips for Flying with Children After REAL ID Enforcement

• Apply early for your own REAL ID if you plan to fly after May 2025.

• Check with your airline about child ID requirements—especially for unaccompanied minors.

• Bring a copy of your child’s birth certificate, especially if you have different last names.

• For international trips, ensure your child’s passport is valid and meets destination requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do children under 18 need a REAL ID to fly domestically?

No. TSA does not require minors under 18 to show ID for domestic flights if traveling with an adult companion.

Does the adult companion need a REAL ID?

Yes. All adults 18 and older must present a REAL ID or TSA-accepted ID after May 7, 2025.

What if my child is flying alone?

TSA may not require ID, but airlines have stricter rules for unaccompanied minors. Some may request a birth certificate or ID. Check with your airline.

Can my child use a passport instead of a REAL ID?

Yes. A valid U.S. passport is accepted for both domestic and international travel for passengers of all ages.

What if my license doesn’t have a star?

Then it's not REAL ID-compliant. You’ll need to upgrade at your DMV with the necessary documents before the deadline.

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