Just the thought of traveling with kids, especially little ones, can bring anxiety. Can I get an Amen? Making sure that all your reservations have been made and transportation details covered, all while attempting to keep the kids entertained and behaving properly, not to mention ensuring you have an endless supply of stocked snacks like a vending machine can be exhausting!
Add in the fact that new flying requirements are coming into effect in May of 2025, and this may be the extra stress and confusion that sends you over the edge! Have no fear Mama, I’m here to clearly lay it out for you and let you know exactly what you need to fly with your kids!
New ID Requirements
Starting May 7, 2025, air travelers in the United States will need to present a Real ID-compliant identification to board domestic flights. What does this mean? Your driver’s license needs to be Real ID compliant. Here in Colorado, the DMV began to issue Real ID compliant driver licenses in 2012. Your Colorado drivers license is Real ID compliant if it has a star icon in the upper right corner.
Those without a Real ID-compliant identification will need to use other forms of identification, such as a passport, visa, or a military ID, to board flights until you can get your driver’s license updated.
Why the Change?
This requirement aims to enhance security and streamline the identification process at airports nationwide. The change is part of a broader effort to increase national security and reduce fraud. By standardizing ID requirements across states, the Real ID Act ensures that the identification people use to access government services and transportation is more reliable and difficult to counterfeit.
Do My Kids Need a Real ID?
Minors under the age of 18 will not need the new required Real ID to pass through security, they only need a boarding pass to board the plane if they are accompanied by an adult, flying domestic and are between the ages of 2-17.
However, as a travel agent, I always recommend that if you have an ID for your child, bring it.
Key Takeaways
- Domestic travel will require Real ID-compliant identification beginning May 7, 2025 for ages 18+.
- If your child is between the ages of 0-17, flying domestic, and flying with an adult, typically they will not need ID.
- Domestic travel generally requires a birth certificate if your child is under the age of 2 and flying as a lap child.
- International travel always requires a passport regardless of age.
- It’s important to check specific airline and destination requirements well in advance of travel to ensure you have the necessary documents.
Meet Jenn Moore
Hello! I’m a travel agent and I specialize in Disney Destinations. I’m a wife, a mom of two, and my favorite way to find adventure is on board the Disney Cruise Line. I know that the details involved with planning any vacation can be overwhelming, but Disney especially can be daunting. My services are here to help customize a Disney Vacation for your family and help navigate all the details involved. Request a free quote with no obligation: https://bit.ly/freeDisneyquote
