Airport Identification
What ID is Required?
You
know how important identification is in traveling. If you don't
have an accurate ID that matches the same information as your
airplane ticket, TSA security are not going to just let you walk
through. But what exactly counts as ID? And how many of you need
it?
Adults
As an adult, you'll need either a valid passport or a
state approved photo identification card. If you're traveling
internationally, you'll need a passport valid for at least six
months past the date of travel. For travel within the United States
and portions of the Caribbean you'll need either a valid driver's
license or a state ID card. For travel to Mexico and Canada a
passport is preferred, but a valid photo ID and a certified birth
certificate will also do the trick.
Passports can take up to six weeks to process, so plan ahead when
traveling abroad. Passport facilities can include your local post
office, courthouse, and certain travel agencies or libraries. Check
with the U.S. Department of State for a listing of participating
facilities nearest you. To process your passport, you'll need two
passport sized photos, proof of U.S. citizenship and a valid photo
ID.
For a driver's license or a state identification card, you'll need
several documents showing proof of citizenship, your social
security card and a birth certificate or certificate of
citizenship. The exact requirements will vary by state, so you'll
want to check with your local DMV for a list of accepted forms of
identification or proofs of residency. Check below for a list of
some of the accepted forms of identification:
- Driver Education Card
- Passport
- Social Security Card
- Birth Certificate
- Military ID Card
- Military Dependent ID Card
- Divorce Papers
- Certificate of Marriage
- Baptismal Records
- Court Order
- School Records/Transcript (certified)
- Unemployment Card
- Adoption Papers
- Concealed Weapons Permit