Can an illegal immigrant fly within the US

Although it may seem complicated, the answer to “Can an illegal immigrant fly within the US?” is that it is possible under certain conditions. In the United States, domestic travel is legal; TSA only requires a valid identification.

Since the full implementation of REAL ID on May 7, 2025, TSA only allows boarding domestic flights with an ID that meets federal security standards.

Those who do not yet have a state driver’s license with the REAL ID star can present alternative documents, such as:

• A valid foreign passport.
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
• Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Understanding which documents TSA accepts and how to avoid mistakes when presenting them can make the difference between a smooth trip and delays.

According to the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), documents such as a valid foreign passport, a current EAD (I-766), and a Green Card are acceptable for identity screening on domestic flights.

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Below you’ll find an updated table and practical tips to do it correctly.

Rules and ID documents: can an illegal immigrant fly within the US?

For many readers wondering, “can an illegal immigrant fly within the US?”, the answer depends on the type of ID you carry.

The TSA does not verify passengers’ immigration status; its role is to confirm the traveler’s identity.

Therefore, an undocumented immigrant can board a domestic flight if they present an accepted, unexpired ID.

By contrast, not carrying a valid ID can prevent you from clearing security even if you have a ticket.

Valid IDs and how REAL ID rules apply

Here is a summary table with the main documents recognized by TSA and their typical validity:

Document type	Accepted by TSA?	Typical validity	Key notes
REAL ID–compliant driver’s license	Yes	Varies by state	Required for domestic flights starting May 7, 2025 (REAL ID)
Valid foreign passport	Yes	~10 years	Accepted regardless of country of origin
EAD (work permit)	Yes	1 year	Issued by USCIS; valid for domestic flights
Green Card (permanent resident)	Yes	10 years	Serves as a federal ID
State license without REAL ID	Sometimes	Varies	May be refused at major airports
Expired ID ≤ 2 years	Sometimes (subject to verification)	Up to 2 years after expiration	TSA may accept if authentic and readable

Many travelers ask whether you can fly within the US using only a Mexican passport or, more generally, whether you can fly domestically with only a passport.

• The answer is yes, as long as the passport is valid and the name exactly matches the ticket.
• The document itself does not trigger immigration checks, and TSA does not detain anyone based on status; another frequent case is flying within the US on a tourist visa. That is possible while the I-94 period remains valid. If your authorized stay expires before the trip, you could be considered in unlawful presence.

Practical example: A Mexican traveler with a B-2 visa flies from Dallas to Miami showing a valid passport. TSA lets her board because the document is valid and matches her reservation. If the visa had expired, an officer could notify ICE, though TSA itself would not detain her for status.

Beneficiaries of DACA, TPS or holders of a valid EAD can also use those documents as ID.

How to fly within the United States using only a passport or a tourist visa

Flying domestically with a foreign passport is entirely possible, even if you do not have lawful status.

• Both options are valid: a current passport serves as official identification for TSA, provided it is unexpired and in good condition.
• Airport security does not review visas or immigration status; it only confirms identity.
• However, carrying unnecessary documents (for example, immigration papers or USCIS receipts) can cause confusion during screening.

Legal tip: Do not hand over extra immigration documents unless an officer formally requests them. The more you present, the more likely additional questions about your situation will arise.

Quick example: A Honduran traveler with a valid passport flies from Houston to Chicago. TSA allows him through without questions about status. If he also showed an asylum application, CBP might review the case and delay boarding.

If you hold a B-2 visa and wonder whether you can fly within the US on a tourist visa, the answer is yes, as long as your I-94 period is still valid. Once it expires, any travel could be interpreted as unlawful presence.

Differences when traveling by air, land, or sea within the country

Each mode of transportation presents different scenarios. The key is to distinguish between security screening (identity verification) and immigration inspection (status review).

Traveling by air

Airports apply stricter controls. With a valid passport, Green Card or EAD, you can board without issues. TSA does not have authority to detain someone for immigration status, although ICE or CBP may be present at large airports such as LAX or MIA.

If your itinerary includes a US domestic connection en route to or from abroad, check whether you need a transit visa before traveling.

Traveling by land

On routes near the border (within about 100 miles/160 km), Border Patrol may conduct random inspections. Present only your valid ID and avoid immigration paperwork.

Even there, an illegal immigrant can fly within the US or travel by land if they carry valid identification.

Quick example: A passenger travels from El Paso to San Antonio. At a checkpoint, CBP requests ID; she shows a valid Salvadoran passport and continues without incident. If she had presented asylum documents, she might have been held longer for verification.

Traveling by sea

Domestic ferry or cruise trips follow rules similar to flights. If the route touches a foreign country (the Bahamas, Baja California, etc.), you must show your passport.

What to do if your documents are expired or you have a pending immigration case

Traveling with expired documents is one of the main reasons for delays at airports and stations.

Knowing whether an illegal immigrant can fly within the US with an expired document is key to avoiding problems at TSA checkpoints.

TSA may allow the use of expired IDs for up to two years after the listed expiration date, as long as the document is authentic and in good condition.

After that period, the document is no longer valid for boarding domestic flights.

Summary table for expired documents

Document	Usable for travel?	Condition	Associated risk
Passport expired less than 2 years	Sometimes (subject to verification)	If TSA confirms authenticity and condition is good	Delay or secondary screening
Passport expired more than 2 years	No	Considered invalid	Immediate boarding denial
Expired EAD or license	Depends	If a renewal or automatic USCIS extension applies	Subject to additional review
Fraudulent or altered document	No	N/A	Possible ICE or CBP hold

Practical example: A traveler presents a Mexican passport that expired six months ago. TSA may accept it temporarily because it is still within the two-year window. If it had been expired since 2023, boarding would be denied.

If you have an active immigration case, such as adjustment of status, TPS, or DACA, you can fly within the US using your EAD or an official USCIS receipt. However, to leave and re-enter the country you must obtain Advance Parole via Form I-131.

Quick example: A DACA recipient flies from Los Angeles to New York using a valid EAD with no issues at screening. Another applicant with an expired permit must wait for renewal before flying.

Your rights when stopped by ICE, CBP, or other officers

Knowing how to act during an immigration encounter is essential. Most undocumented travelers who fly within the US have no incidents, but understanding your rights reduces risks.

Key legal rights:

• Right to remain silent. You may decline to answer questions about immigration status or nationality.
• Right not to surrender your phone or belongings. No officer may search personal items without a warrant.
• Right to an attorney. If detained, you may request to contact your lawyer before making statements.
• Right to record officer details. You may note or record the officer’s name, badge number, and the time of the encounter.

If an officer asks you to unlock your phone or show immigration papers, you can politely refuse.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) itself prohibits the use of force or intimidation in these procedures.

Practical example: A traveler with an expired visa is questioned by CBP at a train station. She identifies herself with her passport and asks to speak with her attorney. As a result, the case did not escalate to ICE.

If you’re asking yourself whether you can fly within the US without papers and what happens if ICE intervenes, remember that TSA does not automatically report travelers to immigration. Removal officers act only if there is already an order or an existing case.

For guidance on what to do in these scenarios, see: Illegal reentry after deportation.

Common mistakes and a quick pre-flight checklist

Many immigrants without lawful status make small mistakes that can lead to problems at the airport or during the trip.

Use this quick list to avoid them and travel more safely when you wonder, again, “Can an illegal immigrant fly within the US?”

Most frequent mistakes

• Flying with expired documents. TSA may accept certain IDs up to two years after expiration; still, traveling with current documents is strongly recommended.
• Name mismatch between ticket and ID. The name on your ticket must exactly match your identification.
• Showing unnecessary documents. Do not hand over immigration forms or personal papers unless explicitly requested. TSA does not check immigration status, only identity.
• Arriving late at the airport. Extra screening can cause delays. Arrive at least two hours early.
• Not knowing your rights. You may remain silent and request to speak with a lawyer before answering ICE or CBP. Any statement can be used in immigration proceedings.

Quick safety checklist

• Verify your ID’s validity (passport, EAD, or REAL ID license).
• Carry a photocopy or backup photo of your ID.
• Avoid carrying sensitive immigration paperwork.
• Keep your lawyer’s contact or an emergency number handy.
• Arrive early (at least 2 hours before departure).

Practical example: A traveler with a valid work visa arrives only 30 minutes before departure and is selected for extra screening. Had he arrived earlier, verification would likely have finished before boarding.

To avoid immigration setbacks, also double-check your authorized period of stay. You can do this online via the official I-94 portal.

FAQs about flying within the United States without papers

Below are the most common questions people ask on Google about whether you can fly within the US without papers.

These answers are based on TSA rules, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and our attorneys’ experience.

Can I fly within the United States using my passport?

Yes. A valid foreign passport is an acceptable form of ID for domestic flights.

TSA does not require it to be a US passport, but it must be in good condition and the name must exactly match the ticket.

Can you fly within the US with an expired passport?

It’s not recommended. TSA may accept certain expired IDs for up to two years, depending on the document type and the officer’s discretion.

However, traveling with unexpired IDs is always safer to avoid delays or extra screening.

Can I fly within the US with a Mexican passport?

Yes. Thousands of passengers fly domestically each year with a valid Mexican passport without issues.

The document meets TSA identity requirements.

However, it does not replace a visa nor prevent a potential immigration check by CBP or ICE, especially at airports near the border.

What are the requirements to fly within the US without papers?

You must carry a valid ID accepted by TSA. You are not required to show a visa or green card, but it’s recommended to:

• Carry simple photocopies of your most important documents.
• Arrive early to avoid delays.
• Stay calm if approached by ICE or CBP.

Can I fly within the US with only a Mexican passport?

Yes, you can, provided the passport is current and the name matches the ticket.

Ultimately, the answer to “can an illegal immigrant fly within the US” is yes, if they meet TSA’s ID requirements.

Legal alternatives to travel more safely in the US

Although you can fly within the US without papers in certain situations, the safest and most stable way to move freely is to regularize your immigration status.

There are different paths depending on your case, and all require expert guidance to avoid mistakes that could cause penalties or re-entry bars.

1. Adjustment of status and routes to lawful permanent residence

Adjustment of status allows you to apply for a Green Card without leaving the US if you qualify.

This path is ideal for those already in the country with an active family-based green card process or an employment-based route.

Common forms include:

• I-485 (application for lawful permanent residence).
• I-765 (work permit).
• I-131 (advance travel permission or parole, learn what is advance parole).

Quick example: A US citizen petitions for a spouse who entered with a tourist visa and overstayed. Through adjustment of status, the spouse can obtain residence without leaving the country.

2. TPS, humanitarian visas, and other protections

Another route is Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which provides work authorization and protection from removal for people from designated countries.

TPS holders may also request special travel permits (advance parole) when they meet certain requirements.

There are also humanitarian visas such as:

• U Visa (crime victims)
• T Visa (human trafficking)
• VAWA (domestic violence)

Each can open a path to lawful permanent residence. Learn more here: Waiver of inadmissibility

Practical example: A woman who suffered domestic violence qualifies under VAWA. Later, she applies for adjustment of status and regularizes her situation.

3. Cancellation of removal and defense before ICE

If you are in removal proceedings, you may still request cancellation of removal or withholding of removal if you meet the time, good-moral-character, and persecution-risk criteria.

Quick example: A long-time resident with over 10 years in the US shows that removal would severely impact his US-citizen children. The judge grants cancellation of removal and allows him to stay.

Your trip is possible, but long-term safety should be the goal

In short, you can fly within the US without papers, but do so with caution. If you’re wondering again, “Can an illegal immigrant fly within the US?” the practical answer is yes—with the right ID and awareness of the limits.

Meeting ID requirements, knowing your rights around ICE or CBP, and staying calm are key to avoiding incidents.

Over time, seeking a path to lawful status—such as adjustment of status, TPS, or a humanitarian visa—will let you move around the country without fear and with full rights.

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At Lluis Law, our immigration lawyers in Los Angeles have over 60 years of combined experience helping families obtain residence, travel permits, and protection from deportation.