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Flying with an ID Card
Can you fly with an ID card? Rules for domestic and international travel
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Can you fly with an ID card?
Yes, you can fly with just an ID card in certain situations, but it depends on where you’re travelling and your nationality. If you’re unsure, travelling with your passport is the safest option.
You can usually fly with an ID card if:
- You're travelling on a domestic flight within your own country
- You're an EU/EEA citizen travelling within the EU or Schengen Area
- Your destination country has a regional travel agreement that accepts national ID cards
You will usually need a passport if:
- You're travelling internationally outside regional agreements
- You're flying long-haul or intercontinental
- You're a non-citizen travelling domestically and need proof of legal status
- Your ID card is expired, damaged, or not accepted by the airline
Flying domestically with an ID card
For domestic flights, a passport is not usually required. Most countries accept a government-issued photo ID, though the exact rules vary.
For example:
- United States: US citizens can use a REAL ID-compliant driver’s licence or other TSA-approved ID. Foreign nationals should use their passport.
- United Kingdom: Airlines may accept photo ID such as a driving licence for UK citizens. Foreign nationals are advised to carry their passport.
- Germany, France, Spain (and most EU countries): Citizens can use a national ID card. Non-EU nationals should carry a passport and residence permit.
- India: Indian citizens can use Aadhaar or other approved photo ID for domestic flights. Foreign nationals must carry their passport.
- Australia: Australian citizens can use photo ID such as a driver’s licence. Foreign nationals are usually expected to carry their passport.
Requirements for ID cards
When flying with an ID card, your ID must meet certain requirements.
These are:
- It must be government-issued
- It must include a photo
- It must be valid (not expired)
- It must be in good condition
- It must match the name on your booking exactly
If your name has changed (for example, due to marriage), ensure your ticket matches your ID exactly.
When do you need a passport?
You will need a passport if:
- You are travelling outside your region’s freedom-of-movement area
- You are flying long-haul internationally
- You are travelling to a country that requires passport entry for your nationality
- Your ID card is expired or damaged
For example:
- UK citizens travelling to most EU countries now require a passport.
- US citizens need a passport for all international flights.
- Most intercontinental travel requires a passport regardless of nationality.
Flying internationally with an ID card
In most cases, you need a passport for international travel. However, there are important exceptions within Europe.
Travel within the EU, EEA and Switzerland
EU citizens can generally travel to other EU countries using a valid national ID card instead of a passport. This also applies to citizens of EEA countries (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) and Switzerland.
Important:
- Your ID card must be valid.
- Airlines can refuse boarding if documents don’t meet entry requirements.
- Non-EU nationals still need a passport.
- Non-EU family members of EU citizens require a passport.
Travel outside Europe
For most travel outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, a passport is required, even if you have a national ID card.
Frequently asked questions
What is an ID card in Europe?
National identity cards are issued by individual European countries as official proof of identity. EU citizens can use a valid national ID card to travel to other EU countries, and similar rules apply within the EEA and Switzerland.
However, ID cards cannot be used for travel outside these regions, where a valid passport is usually required.
What is an ID card in the US?
In the United States, an ID card is a government-issued photo identification document used to prove a person’s identity. The most common forms are a state-issued driver’s licence or a state identification card.
For domestic flights, travellers must present a REAL ID-compliant licence or another TSA-approved form of identification. However, US ID cards cannot be used for international travel - a valid passport is required.
Do children need ID on domestic flights?
Requirements for children vary by country.
- For domestic flights, children may not always need photo ID.
- For international travel within the EU, children usually need their own national ID card.
- For international travel outside regional agreements, children usually need their own passport.
Always check child travel rules before departure.
What happens if you arrive without a passport?
If a passport is required and you only bring an ID card, you may be denied boarding, refused entry upon arrival, and you may have to purchase a new flight at your own expense.
Airlines are responsible for making sure passengers meet entry requirements, so they may refuse travel if documentation is insufficient.
Can I fly internationally without a passport?
Only in specific regions where national ID cards are accepted (such as within the EU/Schengen for eligible citizens). Otherwise, a passport is required.
Can I fly with a picture of my ID?
No. You must present the original physical ID document at the airport.
Can I use a driving licence to fly?
For domestic flights in some countries, yes. For international travel, usually no. If you’re planning a trip and aren’t sure which documents you need, always check official entry requirements and confirm with your airline before travelling.