My 88yr old grandmother is flying to NY this summer- she doesn't have a photo id - is that a problem?

Question

She hasn't flown in about 15 years, so she's never had to have a photo id to fly. What is acceptable at airports these days?

Answer 1

She should go to her local BMV and get a state ID.  She doesn't have to get a driver's license, just the state ID.

Answer 2

Actually, in the United States there was no law that says you must show ID when you fly on a plane.  However, as of June 21 TSA policy says you must show ID to be allowed on the plane--unless you forgot your ID.  Then you must submit to a search of your bags, a pat down, and help the police verify who you are before they will let you on the plane.  So, grams doesn't HAVE to carry ID, but if you want to avoid a full cavity search on  your grandmother, maybe she should get a state ID.  They're often free to the elderly.  Hope this helps.

Answer 3

I flew as recently as yesterday.  I can tell you that you should do your best to have ID.  They are very strict about certain things.  The only other suggestion I have is to call the airports that she will be using.  Hope this helps. Have a safe trip.

Answer 4

Actually, she'll be OK, just subject to further security scrutiny to verify her identity.  

As of June 21, the TSA policy changed regarding picture ID requirement.  

Here's how it works now:  She should arrive early at the security checkpoint and explain the situation.  She'll be asked to fill out a form, including full name and address, which officials will check against public databases.  

The whole process takes about five minutes.

Answer 5

If she's coming from another country she may need a green card and a passport, if she's coming from another states within the united states she needs a state ID she cant get one in the department of motor vehicle DMV or Driver License Department of whatever state she resides.