TSA recently updated its rules for minors traveling alone who want to use TSA PreCheck. Now, children must show a valid photo ID.
If they don't have one, agents will redirect them to the standard line. This doesn't mean they can't fly, but it does mean they'll lose the convenience of expedited screening.
What changes and why
Previously, minors under 18 used PreCheck without showing ID; TSA only scanned their card. Children of parents with PreCheck simply inherited the green mark.
The change responds to three main pressures:
More teens in PreCheck: now, youth ages 13 to 17 can use their parents' traveler number.
REAL ID for adults: with stricter rules in May, minors stand out as an exception.
Prevention of identity theft: minors' documents are sometimes used fraudulently. Requiring valid ID ensures the fast lane is truly secure.
Change at airports for minors | Getty Images
How it affects solo travel
The Department of Transportation estimates that about 7 million minors travel alone each year in the U.S. In summer and winter, the number rises; on a single day in July, there can be up to 40,000 solo flights.
If a child doesn't have ID for PreCheck, they'll go to the standard line, adding 20–30 minutes of waiting. Missing the flight not only delays the trip, but also generates extra costs for a new booking and paperwork for the companion.
Accepted identification and precautions
TSA accepts the same documents as for adults:
U.S. passport
Driver's license or state ID (some states issue cards for minors as young as five)
Trusted traveler cards like Global Entry
Military dependent ID
Birth certificates, school cards, or library cards aren't valid.
Children's safety is crucial | Getty Images, Getty Images Signature
To make the trip safer and smoother, it's recommended to:
Arrive with extra time, especially if using PreCheck.
Book morning flights to minimize delays.
Bring a notarized consent letter if the airline requests it.
Teach the minor how to show their ID confidently.
Safety and supervision
Traveling alone isn't just about time or convenience: safety is crucial. In 2023, 29,000 reports of missing minors were filed, and some were victims of trafficking.
Airports are critical transit points, even with airline escorts. Supervision and proper identification help protect minors from hidden risks.
In addition, each airline has its own rules. For example, Delta and Southwest restrict connecting itineraries for minors ages 5 to 7, while United requires mandatory accompaniment up to age 15. Knowing these rules prevents surprises and ensures a smoother trip.
