Do children need a REAL ID or other ID to fly within the US?

No. TSA does not require travelers under 18 to show identification on flights within the United States.

By Matt Rum · checked October 29, 2026 · FAQ answer · all states · REAL ID · ID for flying · updated November 10, 2026

No. TSA says travelers under 18 don't have to show identification on trips within the United States, so a minor does not need a REAL ID for a domestic flight.

One exception TSA notes: an unaccompanied minor using TSA PreCheck must show an acceptable ID for expedited screening. Check tsa.gov for current rules before you fly.

Sources · checked October 29, 2026

We wrote this summary ourselves from the official pages above on the date shown. Agencies change rules without notice: the official page always wins. DMV Decoded is independent and not a government agency.

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Do children need a REAL ID or other ID to fly within the US?

Sources · checked October 29, 2026

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