Children under 18 do not need a Real ID to travel domestically, but adults must have one starting May 7, 2025.
Understanding the Real ID Act and Its Impact on Travel
The Real ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, was designed to enhance the security of state-issued identification cards. Its primary goal is to create a uniform standard for IDs used to access federal facilities and board domestic flights. The Department of Homeland Security enforces this act by requiring travelers to present a Real ID-compliant form of identification at airport security checkpoints starting May 7, 2025.
This law affects adults who use driver’s licenses or state IDs for air travel within the United States. However, it’s crucial to note that minors, specifically children under 18, are exempt from carrying a Real ID when traveling domestically. This exception recognizes that many children do not possess state-issued IDs and often travel with parents or guardians who provide proper identification.
Can Kids Travel With Real ID? What You Need to Know
The question “Can Kids Travel With Real ID?” has caused some confusion among families preparing for air travel. The straightforward answer is: children under 18 do not need a Real ID or any government-issued photo ID when flying within the U.S., as long as they are accompanied by an adult with acceptable identification.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) explicitly states that minors are not required to present identification at security checkpoints for domestic flights. Instead, TSA officers may use other methods to verify a child’s identity and relationship with the accompanying adult. This policy simplifies travel for families and avoids the burden of obtaining official IDs for young kids.
Still, some airlines may have their own requirements or policies regarding unaccompanied minors or children traveling alone. In such cases, additional documentation like birth certificates or notarized letters of consent might be necessary. But these requirements are separate from the Real ID mandate.
Age Limits and Identification Requirements
To clarify:
- Children under 18: No Real ID or any photo ID needed for domestic flights if traveling with an adult.
- Adults (18 and older): Must present a Real ID-compliant form of identification starting May 7, 2025.
- Unaccompanied minors: Airlines may require extra documentation but not necessarily a Real ID.
This system ensures that families can travel smoothly without worrying about extra paperwork for their kids while maintaining security standards for adult travelers.
The Role of Other Identification Documents for Kids
Even though kids don’t require a Real ID for domestic flights, there are situations where having some form of identification can be helpful or even necessary.
For example, children traveling on international flights must have a valid passport regardless of age. Passports remain the gold standard for international travel and are mandatory for crossing borders.
Additionally, certain airlines might request proof of age or identity when booking tickets or during boarding procedures. Documents like birth certificates or school IDs can serve this purpose effectively.
Parents should also consider having supporting documents handy in case TSA requests verification during security screening. Carrying copies of birth certificates or custody papers can prevent delays or complications if questions arise about a child’s identity or guardianship.
Real ID vs. Other Forms of Identification
The Real ID is just one type of federally accepted identification document. Others include:
- U.S. passport
- Passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS)
- Military IDs
These alternatives meet federal standards and can be used by adults in lieu of a Real ID at TSA checkpoints.
Kids typically don’t carry these forms unless traveling internationally or in special circumstances like military dependents flying on base orders.
How to Obtain a Real ID for Adults Traveling With Kids
Parents planning future trips should ensure they have their own compliant IDs well ahead of the May 2025 deadline. Obtaining a Real ID involves visiting your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with specific documents proving identity, Social Security number, and residency.
Common documents required include:
- Birth certificate or valid passport
- Social Security card or W-2 form
- Proof of address such as utility bills or lease agreements
Once verified, your DMV will issue an updated driver’s license or state ID bearing a star symbol indicating compliance with federal standards.
Having your own Real ID means smoother airport experiences for your entire family since adults must present compliant IDs while children fly free from this requirement.
Avoiding Last-Minute Travel Hassles
Waiting until the last minute to secure your Real ID could result in stressful delays at airports after May 7, 2025. Many states experience long wait times at DMV offices due to high demand as the deadline approaches.
Booking appointments early and gathering all necessary documents beforehand will save valuable time and prevent unnecessary headaches during travel preparation.
Moreover, airlines will strictly enforce TSA policies requiring compliant identification from adults on domestic flights after this date. Without it, boarding could be denied regardless of ticket status.
The Impact on Domestic vs. International Travel for Families
Domestic air travel rules differ significantly from international requirements when it comes to children’s identification needs.
For domestic flights within the U.S., kids under 18 don’t need any government-issued photo IDs like the Real ID; accompanying adults provide sufficient verification at security checkpoints.
In contrast:
- International Flights: Every traveler including infants must present valid passports.
- Visa Requirements: Some countries require visas even for infants; check destination-specific rules before departure.
- Cruise Ship Travel: Cruises departing from U.S. ports often require passports even if only sailing nearby destinations.
Families planning worldwide adventures should prepare accordingly by securing passports well in advance and understanding each country’s entry requirements per traveler age group.
TSA Policies on Child Identification Screening Explained
TSA officers rely on their discretion when screening children without formal IDs. They may ask questions about family relationships and observe behavior patterns consistent with traveling minors accompanied by adults.
This approach balances security needs with practical considerations since many children do not carry photo IDs routinely used by adults.
In cases where doubts arise—such as unaccompanied minors—TSA works closely with airline staff to confirm identities through alternative documentation provided by parents or guardians before allowing boarding access.
A Detailed Comparison Table: Kid’s Travel Identification Requirements vs Adult’s Post-Real-ID Deadline
| Traveler Category | ID Requirement (Domestic Flights) | ID Requirement (International Flights) |
|---|---|---|
| Children Under 18 (Accompanied) | No government-issued photo ID needed; adult’s compliant ID suffices. | Valid passport required regardless of age. |
| Youth Under 18 (Unaccompanied) | ID usually not required but airlines may request birth certificate/consent forms. | Valid passport mandatory; additional consent/guardian documents often needed. |
| Adults (18+) | Real ID-compliant license/ID required starting May 7, 2025. | Valid passport required; visas depending on destination. |
| Seniors & Military Personnel (18+) | Seniors exempted only if using alternate federally accepted IDs such as military cards. | Passport required; military orders may supplement documentation internationally. |
The Practicalities: Traveling Smoothly With Kids Post-Real-ID Implementation
Traveling with kids always requires extra planning—packing snacks, entertainment, comfort items—but navigating new rules around identification adds another layer parents must understand fully before hitting the airport gates after May 2025.
To keep things hassle-free:
- Verify Your Own Compliance: Ensure your driver’s license or state-issued card is updated to meet Real ID standards well ahead of time.
- No Need to Rush Getting Kids’ IDs: Children under eighteen don’t need any new forms of government photo IDs just because you have one now.
- CARRY SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:If you’re traveling with unaccompanied minors—or if an airline requests proof—bring birth certificates and signed consent letters to avoid delays.
- PASSPORTS FOR INTERNATIONAL TRIPS:If crossing borders internationally with kids—even infants—secure passports early since processing times can be lengthy.
- KIDS FLY FREE POLICIES:Avoid confusion by checking airline policies regarding minor passengers before booking tickets; some require extra paperwork despite TSA rules.
- TSA SCREENING EXPERIENCE:TSA officers have experience handling family groups and minor travelers sensitively but being prepared helps speed up lines significantly.
- DON’T FORGET DOCUMENT COPIES:A few photocopies stored separately from originals can save stress if documents get misplaced during transit.
Key Takeaways: Can Kids Travel With Real ID?
➤ Children under 18 generally do not need a Real ID.
➤ Real ID is required for domestic flights starting May 2025.
➤ Kids can use a birth certificate as ID for travel.
➤ Parental consent may be required for minors traveling alone.
➤ Check airline rules as policies vary for child travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Kids Travel With Real ID Requirements?
Children under 18 do not need a Real ID to travel domestically within the United States. The Real ID requirement applies only to adults starting May 7, 2025. Kids can fly without any government-issued photo ID if accompanied by an adult with proper identification.
Do Kids Need a Real ID to Fly Alone?
While children under 18 don’t need a Real ID, airlines may have their own rules for unaccompanied minors. This might include additional documents like birth certificates or consent letters, but these are separate from the federal Real ID requirements enforced by TSA.
What Identification Is Required for Kids Traveling With Real ID Rules?
For domestic flights, minors under 18 are exempt from showing any ID, including Real IDs. TSA may verify identity through other means when kids travel with an adult. Adults must carry a Real ID-compliant form of identification starting May 7, 2025.
How Does the Real ID Act Affect Kids Traveling With Adults?
The Real ID Act requires adults to have compliant IDs for domestic air travel but does not affect children under 18 traveling with adults. Kids can board flights without presenting any identification as long as they are accompanied by an adult who meets the ID requirements.
Are There Any Exceptions for Kids Under the Real ID Travel Rules?
The main exception is that children under 18 are not required to have a Real ID or any photo identification when traveling domestically with an adult. However, unaccompanied minors may face airline-specific documentation rules unrelated to the Real ID law.