Can I Fly Without a Picture DL?

I just flew last week - they require a photo ID that is state issued of some sorts. I've flown with an expired drivers license just last year - no issues.

I flew w/ an expired DL last month. Got to CA, just fine, but a security guard finally noticed on the way home & I got flagged, had my boarding pass marked as "No ID" & got to visit the nice ladies at security for a full pat down & bag search w/ bomb swabbing & all. My kids just loved it! So, be prepared! But DO TAKE A PICTURE ID- even if it's exp'd.

D.

R.,
You should get it in plenty of time. I've never had one take more than 3 weeks to get to me. If you aren't leaving until June you should be fine! Have a great time!

You need a picture ID! And, with all the new restrictions, I would say that an expired anything won't do the job. I think you can use your temp. DL for purchasing cigarettes and alcohol, but I doubt they will let you on a plane. You should have your new DL by June...maybe just plan it for near the end to be on the safe side. Good luck...and have fun!

Hi R.,

Call the airline just to double check. What was the delivery time for your DL? You may be able to get away with an expired passport or your expired DL. I lost my DL last August and it expires this July so I haven't had it renewed yet. When I travel I use my passport although it's still valid. I still use my expired DL for some things. I think I was able to use it for drinks if we went out. Just call and double check. They may not consider an expired document as valid at the airports. I would imagine you'll have your new DL within four weeks or less.

Good luck!

-Char

When renewing your driving license or getting a new one the DPS should give you a paper temporary. This paper temporary along with you expired passport should surfice

If the ticket it issued in your madien name then your expired drivers license should work, but if it's in your married name then you will have to use a current photo id. they will not take an expired passport to my knowledge. if you went last friday to get your dl then it should be in by june. it usually takes 2 weeks at most. good luck.

I would call the airport before relying on others' experiences. You don't want to get there and find out that they hassle you, but didn't hassle someone else. They are stricker since 9/11 so calling both airports that you are flying out of might help ease your stress.

Good luck and have a great time.

K.

Hi R.,

I would call the airlines and see what the rules are and explain your situation.

As far as I know, as long as you have a valid ID, it should be ok.

I would call and find out though.

Good Luck!

Gladys

My friend has just some sort of ID she got through I think the drivers license place. She does not have a DL either. I would not think anything expired would be ok. Something with a picture ID.

R. I work for the airline and NO you can not fly without a pic ID. If they don't catch it then maybe...but if they don't catch it do you really feel safe flying?.....

Yes you can. My husband flies all the time and once left his whole wallet at home. He had no ID whatsoever. They make you go through stringent security, but will let you fly. That was on American Airlines. I think you have to sign a form as well.

I also work for an airline. While your trip will be less of a hassle with a valid photo id, you can pass through the security checkpoint without it. You'll likely just be flagged for additional screening.

My sister-in-law's purse was stolen during a recent trip, and she was allowed to pass through the security checkpoint without any id--she was just screened more thoroughly than the average passenger.

If anything, we're safer when people travel without identification as they are required to undergo additional screening.

You should probably get your DL back in about 2-3 weeks after applying, the temp DL is only good for a month. So don't worry you will be okay.

Have a safe trip

B.

You must have a valid DL or photo ID w/ your current name to get through first security check point.

I work for American Airlines.

I just went through this, though I did get my ID in time, but I spoke to the airport and airlines. You need something - like a work ID - if you have it and as many IDs as you can take - anything with photo, etc. They reserve the right to either let you fly or not - you will have to wait until you are there to know for sure is what they told me!

If you go to www.usairways.com it lists all documentation required to fly on domestic and international flights. It says that your photo id must be current. Also there is a new law in effect if you are traveling to Mexico or Canada you must have a passport which can take up to 8 weeks to get sometimes. Also on the issue of going out in the evening, in Texas your state issued photo id must be current to drink, purchase any age restricted item or to enter any establishment where they require you to be 21 years or older.

R.,
I am not sure what county you live in but I live in Denton county and I recently changed my DL b/c I got married a month ago and it took me less than 2 weeks to get it. I was pretty surprised it was so quick. So I would think you will be OK with booking your trip in June. I don't think you can board a plane with an expired DL b/c of the new security changes. As for being carded, clerks aren't going to know if that is your maiden or married last name. I think your trip will be fine. Have fun!
M.

I used an expired DL for several months. Depending on who you meet at security, you may have to go through extra screening but you should be ok. There are people who refuse to show ID who fly all the time. They have to go through more rigorous screening (ie they look through your bags, etc) but have no problems.