Buying a plane ticket without a passport is possible in some cases, but there are important restrictions to be aware of. The requirements for flying domestically versus internationally are very different. Let’s take a closer look at the rules and when you can or cannot fly without a valid passport.
Flying Domestically Within the U.S.
For domestic flights within the contiguous United States, you do not need a passport. However, you will still need to present a valid form of identification at airport security and when boarding the plane. Acceptable IDs for domestic flights include:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued ID card
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- U.S. military ID
- Permanent resident card (green card)
- Tribal ID
Children under the age of 18 who are flying domestically without an adult companion may need to bring additional documentation, so it’s important to check an airline’s unaccompanied minor policies before booking.
In summary, for domestic U.S. flights you do not need a passport when traveling, but you must bring an acceptable form of ID to the airport and present it at security screening and when boarding.
Flying Internationally Without a Passport
The rules become much more strict when flying internationally without a passport. Depending on the destination, there may be limited alternative documents that are accepted for international travel besides a passport.
Flying to Mexico, Canada, or the Caribbean
For air travel to Mexico, Canada, and some Caribbean islands, U.S. citizens may be eligible to present an alternative trusted traveler document instead of a passport. The most common accepted alternatives include:
- U.S. passport card – This wallet-sized card is only valid for international land and sea travel between the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
- Enhanced driver’s license – Several states along the northern border issue enhanced licenses that comply with The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and can be used to re-enter the U.S. by land or sea.
- Enhanced tribal card – Native American tribal members can obtain an ETC from the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security to facilitate U.S. border crossing.
- NEXUS card – This allows expedited processing when entering the U.S. and Canada. It is only issued to pre-approved, low-risk travelers.
- SENTRI card – Similar to NEXUS, this DHS-administered program allows expedited clearance into the U.S. from Mexico and Canada.
- U.S. military ID – Active duty military members can use their military ID cards along with orders when traveling to Canada, Mexico, and some Caribbean destinations.
Always check with the embassy or consulate of the specific country you plan to visit to confirm their entry document requirements before booking international flights.
When a Passport is Required for International Air Travel
For most international air travel outside of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean region, U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book. Passport cards cannot be used for air travel between the U.S. and any overseas destination. Even travel to Central America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa typically requires a passport book.
There are a very limited number of exceptions where a passport may not be required for international air travel:
- U.S. Virgin Islands – You can fly from the mainland U.S. to the U.S.V.I. with just a government-issued photo ID.
- Private planes – Private plane travel between the U.S. and Canada/Bahamas may be permitted without a passport in some cases.
- Military flights – Active duty military personnel may be eligible for international travel on military planes with just a military ID.
Outside of those rare exceptions, you will need to obtain a valid U.S. passport book before your international flight departs if you do not already have one. Allow several weeks for routine passport processing or make an appointment to get an expedited passport.
Can Children Fly Without a Passport?
Whether passport requirements apply to children depends on their age:
- Children under 18 do not need a passport when flying domestically within the U.S.
- Children 15 and younger can visit Canada without a passport under certain conditions.
- Children 16 and over must present a valid passport like adult travelers for all international air travel.
Always check the specific documentation requirements for minors when booking international tickets for children. Parental consent forms are often required when minors travel without their legal guardians.
Tips for Flying Without a Passport
If you do not have a passport, but your destination does not require one, here are some tips for smoothly completing your trip:
- Book round trip tickets – One-way international tickets may raise additional scrutiny.
- Carry acceptable ID – Bring the required government-issued ID and do not let it expire before your return date.
- Verify visa/entry rules – Some countries still require visas even for passport-exempt travelers.
- Check your ID name – Ensure the name on your ID exactly matches your plane ticket.
- Arrive early – Give yourself extra time at the airport in case of any ID verification delays.
The Bottom Line
In most cases, having a valid passport is the best practice for both domestic and international air travel. But for short flights within the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean, non-passport alternatives may be permitted. Carefully verify the ID requirements when planning any trip without a passport to avoid issues. With some advance research and preparation, it is possible for U.S. citizens to fly without a passport in certain limited situations.