How to Travel Without a REAL ID or Passport (and Sometimes Without Any ID)
Traveling without a REAL ID or passport in the U.S. and neighboring regions is possible, but it requires careful planning and awareness of current regulations. This guide covers domestic travel within the U.S., as well as trips to the Caribbean, Canada, and Mexico, providing practical advice and official resources.
🛫 1. Understanding REAL ID Requirements
As of May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires travelers aged 18 and over to present a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Acceptable forms of identification include:
REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses or state-issued ID cards
U.S. passports or passport cards
DHS trusted traveler cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
U.S. military ID
For more details, visit the Department of Homeland Security's REAL ID page.
🧳 2. Domestic Travel Within the U.S.
✈️ Air Travel
If you lack a REAL ID or passport:
TSA may permit travel after completing an identity verification process, which could include providing additional documentation and undergoing enhanced screening. However, this is not guaranteed and may result in delays or denial of boarding.
Alternative IDs: Other federally accepted IDs, such as a U.S. passport, passport card, or DHS trusted traveler cards, are acceptable for air travel.
Refer to the TSA's official guidance for more information.
🚆 Train Travel (Amtrak)
ID Requirements: Amtrak requires passengers to present valid photo identification when purchasing tickets or boarding. Acceptable IDs include:
State-issued driver's licenses or ID cards
U.S. passports
Military IDs
Student IDs
For a complete list, see Amtrak's Passenger Identification page.
🚌 Bus Travel (Greyhound and Others)
ID Policies: Greyhound typically requires a valid photo ID to board. However, enforcement may vary, and some passengers report boarding without ID. It's advisable to carry identification to avoid potential issues.
Check Greyhound's travel FAQs for current policies.
🚗 Car Travel
Driving: Operating a vehicle requires a valid driver's license.
Riding: Passengers are not required to present ID for car travel.
🌴 3. Travel to U.S. Territories and the Caribbean
🇵🇷 U.S. Territories (e.g., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands)
Air Travel: Considered domestic travel; however, TSA ID requirements apply. A REAL ID or alternative acceptable ID is necessary for boarding flights.
🚢 Closed-Loop Cruises
Definition: Cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port.
ID Requirements: U.S. citizens can travel on closed-loop cruises to destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, and Canada with:
A government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license)
Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate)
For more information, visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's cruise travel page.
🇨🇦 🇲🇽 4. Travel to Canada and Mexico
🚗 Land Travel
Canada: U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) when entering Canada by land.
Mexico: Entry requires a valid U.S. passport book or card and an entry permit issued by Mexico's Instituto Nacional de Migración.
Refer to the U.S. Department of State's guidance on land border crossings for detailed information.
✈️ Air Travel
Requirement: A valid U.S. passport book is mandatory for air travel to and from Canada and Mexico.
📱 5. Alternative Identification Options
Some states offer mobile driver's licenses or digital IDs that are accepted at select TSA checkpoints. Additionally, other forms of identification may be acceptable, including:
Tribal IDs
Military IDs
Global Entry cards
Acceptance varies by location and agency. Always verify with the relevant authority before traveling.
📝 6. Printable Travel Checklist
Traveling Without a REAL ID or Passport? Here's What You Need:
Alternative Acceptable ID: U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or DHS trusted traveler card.
Supporting Documents: Birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bills, or other documents verifying identity.
Travel Itinerary: Printed copies of tickets, hotel reservations, and other travel plans.
Contact Information: Emergency contacts and addresses of destinations.
State-Specific Requirements: Check with your state's DMV for any additional identification options or requirements.
🔗 Additional Resources
Note: Regulations and requirements are subject to change. Always consult official sources and verify information before traveling.
