Can You Get Through TSA And Fly With A Paper ID?

Traveling can be stressful. There is always the fear that you forgot to pack something or (even worse) that you'll turn up at the airport and realize you don't have your passport or legal ID. What if you only have your paper ID with you? Can you get through airport security and fly with a paper ID? You cannot get through TSA and fly if you only have paper identification with you. However, you may still be able to board, provided that TSA can check your identity through other means. 

First, TSA will do some additional screening to confirm your ID before you can board the plane and be on your way. Check to see if you have any other documents or acceptable forms of identification (such as a passport or a DHS trusted traveler card like Global Entry). Some additional ways to verify your ID may involve questions and other documents with your name on them, such as a credit card. All these additional items will need extra scrutiny, so arrive with plenty of time to spare. Officially, TSA recommends individuals without acceptable identification arrive at least three hours before their flight time.

If you only have a paper ID, contact your airline prior to the day of your flight. They can give you options you may have to complete before you can make your flight on time. Though not always the case, some travelers are able to board with paper ID after undergoing additional screening methods or using digital identification.

What should you do if you lose your passport? You should immediately report that your passport has been lost or stolen to protect yourself from identity theft. You can report it online, by mail, or in person. If you have lost your passport or had it stolen while traveling, the U.S. Department of State reports that you must replace it before returning to the United States. Immediately contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. You can locate your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate on the U.S. Embassy website. You will be required to appear in person to get a new passport.

Always review your passport before leaving for a trip. Some countries require a passport that will not expire within three months of travel to enter their country, while others require a valid passport for six months. Always check a U.S. passport validity guide before traveling internationally to ensure you can get where you are going and enjoy your vacation.

Also, before your flight, check to see if you have a REAL ID. What is a REAL ID? Per the Department of Homeland Security, it was created following the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government set standards for issuing identification. The REAL ID will have a gold star on the top right corner, and you will need it to fly nationally from May 7, 2025.