Losing a government-issued photo ID before a flight can be a nightmare, especially since most airlines don’t issue refunds for missed departures. Globe Aware volunteers, with these right steps, find out how it’s still possible to continue your journey.
What to Do If You Lose Your ID Right Before a Flight
Don't panic—there are ways to fly even without your ID (but you do need to verify your identity).
By Cailey Rizzo
July 30, 2025
Travel + Leisure
- Losing your ID before (or during) a trip can be stressful, but there are still ways you can travel without it.
- In many cases, you can verify your identity to TSA agents by bringing alternative documentation and undergoing additional screening and questioning.
A valid and government-issued form of photo identification is an essential part of flying, so losing your ID right before a flight is high on the list of worst-case travel scenarios. Maybe it was lost and you haven't been able to replace it in time, or maybe you've arrived at the airport only to discover you left it at home. Either way, it's a nightmare. And since most airlines don't offer refunds if you miss your flight for personal reasons like a lost ID, you'll want to catch that plane.
If you're currently freaking out, take a deep breath. Although it will likely be an inconvenient process, you'll probably still be able to fly even without an ID. Here's how to replace your lost ID—or get through security without one—before a flight.
Losing your ID before (or during) a trip can be stressful, but there are still ways you can travel without it.
How to Fly Without Your ID
If you've lost your regular, everyday ID, like your driver's license, you may have another acceptable form of identification you can use instead. Valid IDs accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) include Real ID-compliant driver's licenses, U.S. passport books and cards, and permanent resident cards. But if you don't have an alternative form of TSA-approved ID, don't worry, there are still other avenues to pursue.
Arrive at the airport as early as possible, and come prepared with additional forms of identification like credit cards, a student ID, mail, or prescription medication with your name and address. First, explain your situation to an airline representative at the counter and show your documents. Once the representative is satisfied that you are who you say you are, they will issue a boarding pass with a note that you don't have an ID.
Then, head to security and explain the situation to the TSA agents. Passengers traveling without a form of identification will have to go through interviews with TSA officers to establish their identity. "The TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process which includes collecting information such as your name and current address to confirm your identity," according to the TSA website. You may be taken out of the main security area to a second room for this screening process. If the agent can verify your identity, you can pass through security and proceed to your gate.
How to Replace Your Lost ID
Getting through TSA is just one piece of the puzzle. You still have to actually replace your lost or stolen ID, which may be time-sensitive if you're abroad or have a trip coming up.
First, let's look at the process for Real IDs for domestic travel. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to replace a driver's license or Real ID, depending on getting an appointment at your local Department of Motor Vehicles office, processing time, and shipping. Typically, you'll get a temporary ID until your physical copy comes. However, TSA does not accept temporary driver's licenses as a form of ID. So if your Real ID-compliant license won't arrive in time for your trip, you'll need to use another type of ID or prepare for additional screenings and questioning from TSA.
The process becomes more difficult for international travel, as individual countries decide whether or not to allow travelers without identification. Travelers who lose their IDs abroad should immediately contact the nearest U.S. embassy for assistance in replacing their passports. If you lost your Real ID while overseas, note that embassies do not replace these. But again, if you're abroad, replacing your passport is the priority.
If your ID was stolen, obtain a police report. This will detail when and where your identification went missing (providing some proof to your story) and confirm your identity. Travelers should have a photocopy or digital scan of their identification easily accessible but safely stored, like in a private Dropbox account. Also, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which will make it easier to get help from the embassy while abroad.
Above all, no matter what your scenario is, remain calm and courteous. Airline, security, and immigration employees are all more likely to help get you on your flight if you're cooperative.
