As we wrap up the first quarter of 2025, there are important updates and reminders surrounding the identification and documentation required for travel. From new regulations on domestic flights to updated visa processes and digital authorizations, staying informed is more crucial than ever. The last thing you want on vacation is to have your boarding denied. At Boomerang Escapes, we’re here to help you navigate it all, but ultimately, it is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure they have the correct and valid identification for their journey.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most common forms of travel ID, what they are, when you need them, how to obtain them, and any associated costs.
1. Driver’s License
What it is: A government-issued license to operate a motor vehicle.
When you need it: For domestic travel by car and for renting a car. Soon accepted as ID for domestic flights must be REAL ID compliant by 2025.
Cost: Varies by state.
How to get it: Apply or renew through your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles.
2. REAL ID
What it is: A U.S. federally compliant driver’s license or ID card with enhanced security features.
When you need it: Starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID will be required for boarding domestic U.S. flights and entering certain federal facilities.
Cost: Varies by state.
How to get it: Visit your local DMV with the required documents (proof of identity, social security number, and residency). An appointment is usually needed.
What if you don’t have a REAL ID by the deadline?
If you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license by May 7, 2025, you can still board domestic U.S. flights—but you’ll need to present an alternative form of acceptable identification, such as:
- A valid U.S. passport
- A passport card
- A DHS Trusted Traveler card (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- A U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- A Permanent Resident Card or other federally accepted IDs
These documents must be valid and unexpired.
REAL ID for Minors and Age Guidelines
What about children and teens?
REAL ID requirements apply primarily to adults aged 18 and older. Here’s what travelers of different age groups need to know when flying domestically:
- Children under 18:
- Do NOT need a REAL ID or any ID to fly domestically (within the U.S.) when traveling with a companion with acceptable identification (such as a parent or guardian). However, airlines may still require proof of age for children under age two flying as lap infants, so carrying a copy of a birth certificate or passport is recommended.
- Teens aged 18 and over:
- To board a domestic flight, they must have a REAL ID-compliant license/ID or an alternative federally accepted ID (such as a U.S. passport) starting May 7, 2025.
3. Passport
What it is: An official government-issued document allowing international travel and verifying identity and nationality.
When you need it: Required for all international air travel and many international cruises.
Cost: Around $130 for adults (first-time application), $110 for renewals, additional fees for expedited service.
How to get it: Apply through the U.S. State Department online or in person at an approved facility.
Note: Most airlines and destinations require that your passport be good for 6-months past your travel dates. Be sure to always check your expiration date before booking your travel.
4. Passport Card
What it is: A wallet-sized card for U.S. citizens for land and sea travel.
When you need it: It can be used for land and sea crossings to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda—but not for international air travel.
Cost: $30 (adults), $15 (children).
How to get it: Apply through the U.S. State Department, often done alongside a passport book.
5. Global Entry
What it is: A U.S. Customs and Border Protection program allowing expedited clearance for pre-approved travelers upon arrival in the U.S.
When you need it: Great for frequent international travelers entering the U.S.
Cost: $100 for 5 years.
How to get it: Apply online, complete a background check, and attend an in-person interview.
6. TSA PreCheck
What it is: A program allowing expedited security screening at U.S. airports.
When you need it: Helpful for quicker processing through security on domestic and some international flights.
Cost: $78 for 5 years.
How to get it: Apply online, complete a background check, and attend an in-person appointment.
7. Visas
What it is: Official permission to enter, stay, or work in a country for a specific purpose and duration.
When you need it: Varies by destination and trip purpose. Many countries require a visa prior to arrival.
Cost: Varies widely depending on country and visa type.
How to get it: Through the embassy/consulate of the country you’re visiting or online if an e-visa is available.
Countries That Require a Visa for U.S. Travelers:
Before Arrival (Apply in Advance):
- China – Tourist visa required before arrival.
- India – Requires an e-Visa or regular visa, depending on purpose and duration.
- Russia – Tourist visa must be obtained in advance, with detailed itinerary and invitation.
- Vietnam – Requires a visa or e-visa for most stays.
- Nigeria – Visa required in advance; no visa on arrival for tourists.
- Brazil – Starting again in April 2025, U.S. travelers will need an e-visa.
- Cuba – Requires a visa and additional documentation depending on travel category.
Visa on Arrival or e-Visa Available (Still Required):
- Egypt – e-Visa or visa on arrival available.
- Turkey – e-Visa required for U.S. citizens.
- Tanzania – Visa on arrival or e-visa available.
- Indonesia – Visa on arrival offered at select entry points.
8. ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
What it is: A digital travel authorization required by certain countries for visa-exempt travelers.
When you need it: Required before flying to countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand if you don’t need a visa.
Cost: Typically under $20.
How to get it: Apply online through the government site of the destination country.
9. ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System)
What it is:
A new pre-travel authorization for travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the U.S.) entering most European Union countries in the Schengen Zone.
When you need it:
Launched January 2025. U.S. travelers will need ETIAS approval before visiting countries like France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Greece, and others for short stays up to 90 days.
Cost:
€7 (approximately $7.50 USD); free for travelers under 18 or over 70.
How to get it:
Apply online through the official ETIAS website (coming soon). Approval is typically quick but may take up to 96 hours.
Important Note:
ETIAS is not a visa but a required travel authorization similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA. It is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
10. Travel Insurance Documents
What it is: Policy documentation showing coverage for medical, cancellation, interruption, baggage loss, etc.
When you need it: Strongly recommended for all travel, especially international. Some countries now require proof of insurance for entry.
Cost: Varies by coverage, length of trip, and traveler age.
How to get it: Purchase through a travel advisor, insurance provider, or booking site.
Final Reminder: While we, as travel advisors, will always do our best to inform and assist, it is up to each traveler to ensure they have the necessary identification and documents in order before their departure. To avoid travel delays, it’s strongly recommended to plan ahead and ensure your identification is valid and meets the new requirements well before you travel.
Safe travels, and here’s to stress-free planning in 2025!
Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI.
She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds. Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind. She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember. With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.
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