Traveling within the United States often requires accepted forms of identification. While a driver’s license is commonly used, many wonder about the validity of a learner’s permit for travel purposes. This article clarifies whether you can travel with a learner’s permit, outlining the regulations surrounding domestic air travel and providing alternative identification options.
Understanding REAL ID Requirements for Air Travel
The REAL ID Act, enacted by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued identification documents, including driver’s licenses and identification cards. Starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID compliant identification will be mandatory for boarding domestic flights and entering certain federal facilities. A standard learner’s permit is not REAL ID compliant.
Learner’s Permits and Domestic Flights: What You Need to Know
Since learner’s permits are not REAL ID compliant, they cannot be used to board domestic flights after the May 7, 2025 deadline. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will only accept REAL ID compliant documents or other federally approved identification. This means that traveling with a learner’s permit alone will not be sufficient for air travel within the U.S.
Acceptable Identification for Domestic Air Travel
If you are unable to travel with a REAL ID compliant driver’s license, several other forms of identification are accepted for domestic flights:
- REAL ID Compliant Driver’s License or Identification Card: If your state participates in the REAL ID program, you can obtain a compliant license or ID card.
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL): EDLs are acceptable for both domestic air travel and land/sea border crossings with Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas.
- U.S. Passport: A valid U.S. passport is universally accepted for all domestic and international travel.
- Military ID: Active duty and retired military personnel can use their military ID.
- Permanent Resident Card: A valid permanent resident card is an acceptable form of identification.
- Other TSA Approved Identification: The TSA accepts a range of other identification documents, including trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI) and tribal photo identification cards. A full list is available on the TSA website.
Alternatives for Minors Traveling Without a REAL ID
Children under 18 are generally not required to present identification when traveling domestically with a companion who has acceptable identification. However, individual airlines may have their own policies, so it’s advisable to check with the airline before traveling. While not required by the TSA, having a birth certificate or passport for children can be helpful.
Planning Ahead for Travel Identification
Given the upcoming REAL ID enforcement date, it’s crucial to plan ahead and secure acceptable identification for domestic air travel. If you currently rely on a learner’s permit, consider obtaining a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or another federally accepted form of identification well in advance of your travel plans. Visit the TSA website (www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification) for the most up-to-date information on acceptable identification.
Conclusion
While a learner’s permit allows you to practice driving, it won’t get you on a domestic flight after May 7, 2025. Secure a REAL ID, passport, or another approved form of identification to ensure smooth travels.
