Is There an Approved ID for TSA Checks?

TSA does have an approved ID for TSA checks. It has an official list of approved IDs you can use at the airport security checkpoints in the United States. However, like all other TSA regulations, this list is also subject to change. Here’s the updated list:  

Primary Approved ID for TSA Checks  

As of May 7, 2025, the primary approved ID accepted for TSA checks is the REAL ID. It is a state-issued ID card that meets federal security standards. You require a REAL ID to board federally regulated commercial flights within the U.S. To acquire this, you need to submit documents proving your identity and residency along with your Social Security Number (SSN).   

No REAL ID?  

Even though the REAL ID ACT was passed by Congress in 2005, it did not come into effect until the latter half of 2025. Hence, according to statistics, only roughly 60% of the population has acquired the REAL ID. In the meantime, flyers without this ID still fly domestically using alternate IDs accepted by TSA.   

However, without the REAL ID, you might face extra screening and security checks. In the worst case, if you have neither a REAL ID nor an alternate ID, you will have to provide information to confirm your identity at the TSA check.   

Approved IDs for TSA Checks  

• A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license: A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license (marked with a star) issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) is an approved ID for TSA checks. A temporary driver’s license is NOT considered valid proof of identification.  

• A State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License: A State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL/EID), which is both a proof of identity as well as citizenship, is also an accepted ID.  

• U.S. Passport Book: Another federally issued document that verifies your U.S. citizenship and identity, which is accepted at TSA checks, is the U.S. Passport Book.   

• U.S. Passport Card: A passport card is a cheaper, more convenient version of the standard passport book. However, unlike the book, the card cannot be used as a valid ID for international travel. It can be used as an ID for domestic flights.  

• DHS Trusted Traveler cards: The Department of Homeland Security provides Trusted Travel Programs, which enable low-risk travelers to move easily through TSA checks. You can apply for these cards online via the ttp.dhs.gov website.  

• Permanent Resident Card: A Permanent Resident Card/Green Card is also an approved ID for TSA checks in the U.S. It acts as both ID and proof of status for air travel within the U.S.  

Also Read: What Is the TSA Liquid Rule?

Other Approved IDs for TSA Checks  

• U.S. Department of Defense ID: Your DoD ID serves as an approved ID for screening at TSA checks. It can, for the time being, replace the REAL ID to fly domestically in the U.S. IDs issued to dependents are also valid.  

• Border crossing card: A border crossing card or a DSP-150 is also an approved ID for TSA.   

• HSPD-12 PIV card: The HSPD-12 is a Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card for federal employees and contractors.  

• Foreign government-issued passport: A valid, unexpired foreign government-issued passport is an acceptable form of identification for TSA security checkpoints for both domestic and international U.S. travel.   

• A Canadian provincial driver’s license, Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766), and Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) are also accepted as approved ID for TSA checks.  

Eligible Digital IDs  

Apart from these IDs, digital IDs are also accepted in select states. However, this Digital ID stored in your phone’s digital wallet or in a third-party app must be based on a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, or Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Identification Card.  

Here are some of the eligible digital IDs:  

• Apple Wallet
• Clear ID
• Google ID pass
• Samsung Wallet

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