Military personnel flying domestically must carry a valid military ID card, such as the Common Access Card (CAC) or military ID, to verify their status. Proof of travel orders or a leave approval voucher may be required depending on the airline or military regulations. It is essential to check specific airline policies and TSA guidelines to ensure smooth boarding and security screening.
What Documents are Needed for Military Personnel Flying Domestically?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Military ID Card (Common Access Card - CAC) | Military personnel flying domestically must present a valid Military ID Card, specifically the Common Access Card (CAC), as primary identification for airport security and boarding procedures. The CAC ensures expedited processing and verification, confirming active duty status and eligibility for military travel benefits. |
| 2 | Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) | Military personnel flying domestically must present a valid military ID and their Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) as proof of status and authorization for travel. The LES verifies active duty status and leave approval, ensuring compliance with travel regulations and facilitating smooth security processing. |
| 3 | Orders (Travel Orders, TDY Orders, PCS Orders) | Military personnel flying domestically must carry official travel orders, including Travel Orders, Temporary Duty (TDY) Orders, or Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Orders, as these documents verify authorization for travel and provide essential details about assignment and itinerary. Proper presentation of these orders at check-in and security checkpoints ensures compliance with military travel regulations and facilitates smooth transit. |
| 4 | Department of Defense (DoD) Travel Authorization | Military personnel flying domestically must present a valid Department of Defense (DoD) Travel Authorization along with their Common Access Card (CAC) to verify official travel status. This documentation ensures compliance with DoD travel regulations and facilitates priority boarding and baggage handling on military flights. |
| 5 | Department of Defense (DoD) CAC Card | Military personnel flying domestically must present a valid Department of Defense (DoD) Common Access Card (CAC) as their primary identification, which verifies their military status and authorization to travel. The DoD CAC card, combined with a government-issued photo ID, ensures smooth access through secure checkpoints within U.S. airports. |
| 6 | Government Travel Card (GTC) | Military personnel flying domestically must carry a valid government-issued identification such as a Common Access Card (CAC) along with their government travel card (GTC) to cover authorized expenses during official trips. The GTC facilitates seamless transactions for transportation, lodging, and meals, ensuring compliance with military travel regulations. |
| 7 | Passport (if required for special circumstances) | Military personnel flying domestically typically need a valid military ID, but a passport may be required for special circumstances such as traveling to U.S. territories or certain secured areas. Ensuring compliance with TSA regulations and verifying specific travel orders can determine if a passport is necessary alongside military identification. |
| 8 | Driver’s License (State-issued, for identification) | Military personnel flying domestically must present a valid, state-issued driver's license as primary identification for TSA screening. This government-issued ID complies with REAL ID requirements and ensures smooth security verification during domestic air travel. |
| 9 | Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) Printout (if requested) | Military personnel flying domestically must present a valid military ID and, if requested, a Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) printout to verify eligibility for travel benefits and access. The DEERS printout ensures up-to-date enrollment status, facilitating smooth processing at checkpoints and during boarding. |
| 10 | Emergency Contact Information Form | Military personnel flying domestically must carry a valid military ID and have an updated Emergency Contact Information Form readily accessible for security and safety protocols. This form ensures immediate communication with designated contacts in case of emergencies during travel. |
Introduction to Domestic Travel Requirements for Military Personnel
Military personnel flying domestically must carry specific documents to ensure smooth travel through airport security and military checkpoints. Essential documents include an active military ID card, government-issued photo identification, and travel orders if applicable. Understanding these requirements helps you prepare thoroughly and avoid delays during your journey.
Types of Identification Accepted for Military Travelers
Military personnel flying domestically must carry specific identification to ensure smooth security screening and boarding processes. The Department of Defense (DoD) issues several recognized IDs for active-duty members and veterans engaged in official travel.
Accepted forms of identification include the Common Access Card (CAC) for active-duty personnel and the Uniformed Services Identification Card for reservists and retirees. Veterans may present the Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC) when traveling for authorized medical appointments. Passports are generally not required for domestic flights but may be used as supplementary ID alongside military cards.
Valid Military IDs: What You Need to Know
Military personnel flying domestically must carry valid military identification to ensure smooth security clearance and boarding processes. Understanding the types of acceptable military IDs is crucial for seamless travel within the United States.
- Common Access Card (CAC) - The CAC is the primary ID for active-duty service members, allowing access to military bases and verification at TSA checkpoints.
- Department of Defense (DoD) Identification Card - This ID serves active, reserve, and retired military personnel for travel and identification purposes.
- Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) - Veterans enrolled in VA healthcare can use the VHIC as proof of military status during domestic flights.
Travel Orders and Their Importance
Military personnel flying domestically must present specific documentation to ensure smooth travel and compliance with regulations. Travel orders are a critical document that verifies official movement authorization.
- Travel Orders - Official written authorization from a military command detailing the purpose, destination, and duration of the trip.
- Identification - Valid military ID or Common Access Card (CAC) is required to confirm service status alongside travel orders.
- Verification and Compliance - Travel orders ensure verification of funding, itinerary approval, and adherence to military travel policies.
Presenting accurate travel orders prevents delays and facilitates access to military travel benefits during domestic flights.
Required Documentation for Accompanying Family Members
What documents are needed for military personnel and their families when flying domestically? Military personnel must carry a valid military ID and orders if applicable. Accompanying family members need a government-issued ID and a military ID card to verify their association.
Special Considerations for Reserve and National Guard Members
Military personnel flying domestically must present valid identification, including a Department of Defense (DoD) ID card or Common Access Card (CAC). Reserve and National Guard members should carry their activation orders or mobilization papers as proof of status.
Reserve and National Guard members may face additional documentation requirements depending on the airline or military base regulations. It is crucial to verify specific guidelines before travel to ensure seamless security clearance and boarding processes.
TSA Screening Procedures for Military Personnel
| Document | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Military ID Card (CAC) | Common Access Card issued to active duty, reserve, and retired military personnel. | Primary identification for TSA personnel to verify military status and eligibility for expedited screening. |
| Military Orders | Official travel orders showing duty assignment or mission-related travel details. | Supports verification especially when traveling on official military duty. |
| Government-Issued Photo ID | State driver's license or passport may be required if Military ID is unavailable. | Secondary identification for identity confirmation during TSA screening. |
| TSA Screening Procedure | Details |
|---|---|
| Identification Check | TSA agents verify your Military ID card or acceptable alternative before allowing access to security lines. |
| EXPRESS Lane Access | Active duty military personnel with proper identification often qualify for TSA PreCheck or expedited screening lanes. |
| Security Screening | Military travelers undergo standard screening, but may be exempt from removing shoes, belts, or light jackets depending on specific TSA guidelines. |
| Carry-on Allowances | Military gear and equipment are subject to TSA regulations; exceptions may apply when accompanied by military orders. |
Documentation for Transporting Military Equipment
Military personnel flying domestically must carry specific documentation for transporting military equipment to ensure smooth security and regulatory compliance. Proper paperwork verifies the legitimacy and safety of the transported items during travel.
- Department of Defense Identification - Required to confirm active military status and authorization for equipment transport.
- Equipment Manifest - A detailed list of all military gear being transported, necessary for security inspections and accountability.
- Transportation Authorization Forms - Official documents approving the movement of military equipment on commercial flights, ensuring compliance with airline and federal regulations.
Lost or Expired Military ID: Next Steps
Military personnel flying domestically must carry a valid military ID to access base security checkpoints and board flights with military benefits. If Your military ID is lost or expired, promptly report the issue to your local ID card office to obtain a temporary pass or replacement. Bringing a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, can assist during the interim verification process.
What Documents are Needed for Military Personnel Flying Domestically? Infographic
