Do Kids Need ID to Fly? Must-Know Travel Guidelines for Parents

It could be challenging and complicated to organize a trip for your family and kids. You will be bombarded with questions like “What do I need to fly with my child?” Do kids need to have identification to fly? Can my kid take off on its own? It can all be quite distressing. But do not worry. We understand your worries, whether you’re booking a flight ticket from Canada to India or any other destination. Here are some crucial facts and information on “Do kids need ID to fly or not?” that will enable you to effectively negotiate any challenges you may encounter at the airport and ensure hassle-free, seamless travel for you and your child.

When is ID Required For A Child While Traveling?

Minors Flying Internationally: Even if a minor is traveling with both parents, airlines will always require a valid form of identification while they are traveling abroad.

Kids Flying Internationally with One Parent/Teacher/Grandparents: Minors under the age of eighteen who are traveling abroad alone or with one parent, teacher, or grandparent must adhere to somewhat stringent paperwork requirements provided by the airlines. They have to provide a consent form and one or two ID documents.

When is an ID Not Required for a Child While Traveling?

Minors Flying Domestically with an Adult: Children under the age of eighteen are not required to present identification to the airline when they are traveling domestically with an adult. The airline will accept valid identification from the adult companion on behalf of the minor.

Unaccompanied Minors Flying Domestically with an Adult: The majority of airlines do not require unaccompanied minors to show identification. But adults going with them do need to present a legitimate form of identity.

Please be aware that each airline has its policy regarding identification requirements. And some may need children to present identification on board. It is therefore recommended that you carry one ID document for your child with you for security reasons.

What Sort of IDs are Required for a Child While Traveling?

Now that we know the response to the query, “Do kids need ID to fly?”. It’s time to find out about the identification requirements for kids traveling by air. The biggest obstacle for any parent traveling with kids is getting through security. It is therefore always advisable to plan ahead and arrive well-prepared to avoid issues with security and customs. Let’s talk about the documentation and identity that parents need to have while traveling overseas with minors or children, as well as the criteria for kids to fly.

Domestic Travel

• According to the TSA ID rules for minors, children traveling domestically with an adult companion between the ages of 2 and 18 are exempt from carrying any identity documents. The only adult who must present valid identification is the accompanying adult. They must carry an acceptable identification document from the government. Such as a passport, social security card, driver’s license, etc., when they travel.
• Infants under two are allowed to travel without a ticket as long as they are seated on their parent’s laps. After the age of two, youngsters will have to purchase their tickets. Because airlines would not allow them to travel as lap children. The Transportation Security Administration states that when traveling with parents, the infant’s ID is not needed. However, airline personnel may request verification of the infant’s age when they check them in at the airport. Presenting a birth certificate is an easy method to comply.
• If you plan to travel with a newborn (less than 14 days old), it is advisable to find out from the airline if any additional documentation is required. Some airlines may request a formal medical certificate stating that flying with a baby is safe.

International Travel

• According to TSA ID regulations, every kid, no matter their age, requires a valid passport that has been granted by a government agency to get on an international flight. Therefore, be sure you have a passport that has validity for no less than six months.
• Verify if the passport photo satisfies the specifications established by the Canada State Department. It should have the ideal size, background, and stance. Take a look at the locations around you where you can get passport photos.
• If a minor is traveling to a particular nation via air, they could also require a current visa. For example, if you are arranging a last minute flight to India, your child needs an Indian visa.

Can A Minor Travel Alone?

On most major airlines, children over five are permitted to fly unaccompanied by an adult chaperone. Between the ages of five and fourteen, children are exempt from the requirement to show identification of any type. However, older kids (15 to 17 years old) need to present official identification to travel abroad.

Certain major airlines require children over the age of 12 (or 15 in some situations) to undergo unaccompanied minor procedures while traveling abroad. If you specifically request it in advance, this may only apply to domestic flights; if not, the airline will presume that your child is responsible for arranging for other transportation in the event of a delay or cancellation.

Now that you have a basic understanding of “Do Kids Need ID to Fly?” embrace your inner child and set out to discover this incredible world. And if you are seeking Canada to India business class flight deals at reasonable prices, make sure to get in contact with Flyopedia.