What happens if you don't have ID at the airport? Will TSA let you pass through security? Can you fly?

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you lost your wallet or purse while on vacation? Would TSA let you through security with no identification? or will you miss your flight?

Well if your flight is domestic the answer is YES, TSA will let you through security without ID. However, you will be required to step out of line and spend a few minutes answering questions. Once you explain to the TSA agent that you don't have any ID they will ask you to go with them to make a phone call. At that point the TSA agent will call a central office where they have operators with access to a comprehensive database with all of your personal information. The operator will then ask a series of personal questions to ascertain if you are who you say you are. The TSA agent talks to the operator on your behalf and relays the questions to you from the operator. It's a pretty cumbersome process because everything has to be repeated twice. Here are some of the questions they ask:
What is your name?
Where do you live?
How long have you lived there?
What is your phone number?
Can you provide a name of a relative?
What is your relationship to this relative?
What is the date of birth of this relative?

If you don't have an ID and you are traveling domestically you will want to give yourself an extra 30 minutes to accommodate this delay.


International flights on the other hand require a passport. If you don't have one you will need to visit your local consulate before going to the airport. This is why it's helpful to carry a photocopy of your passport when you travel.