Most nations allow you to travel inside their borders without a passport. The sole exception is when you leave your native country to travel to another country. Regardless of whether you travel locally, you will constantly require picture distinguishing proof, for example, a driver's permit or National ID card, to get onto a flight.

No states will still need U.S. citizens to have passports to travel domestically as of February 2021. It would help if you never were required to show a current passport by your airline or the TSA. Of course, if you misplace your other forms of identity, you may always keep them with you as backup identification.

There's a lot of uncertainty right now concerning REAL ID and whether citizens of particular states require a passport to fly domestically. But don't get tied up in all the misinformation; we've untangled this complex web for you below.

Is a passport required to fly?

The good news is that Americans do not need a passport to travel within the United States. To fly overseas, you will always require a passport.

Continue reading to learn more about the sorts of ID you may use while traveling within the United States, forthcoming changes to ID that will affect all US travelers, and how to obtain a passport.

Is a passport required to travel in the United States?

In a nutshell, no. At least not yet.

But, if that wasn't confusing enough, consider this: from October 1, 2021, a REAL ID will be required for domestic flights.

What kind of identification do I need?

State-issued driving licenses, ID cards, or military ID are the most often used forms of identification when traveling inside the United States.

Changes to ID Forms on the Horizon

You will require a REAL-ID-compliant license or another valid form of identification beginning October 1, 2021, such as a passport or military ID. This results from Congress enacting legislation tightening security standards for state driver's licenses and ID cards.

If your state ID has a star in the upper right-hand corner, you know it's a REAL ID.

Different states have different REAL ID requirements. For additional information, we suggest getting in touch with your local government.

If possible, update your state driver's license or ID card to meet REAL ID criteria by October 1, 2021.

Is a passport required to fly internationally?

Finally, a simple query. Yes, a passport is always necessary while crossing foreign borders.

How can I obtain a passport?

It is simple to apply for a passport. If you are applying for your first passport, you must apply in person at a Passport Acceptance Facility. Some of these offices are now closed, so make sure to locate your nearest one and ensure that it is open.

Remember to double-check your passport.

Before your outing, ensure your identification is as yet substantial.

Moreover, various nations (including China, Thailand, Singapore, Egypt, and Turkey) need your identification to be legitimate for around a half year following your appearance. If you intend to travel in August and your passport expires in October, several countries will deem your passport invalid and will not allow you to enter. Some nations also demand at least four blank pages in your passport