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What ID and Documents Does My Child Need To Fly? [2024]

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Chris Hassan

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What ID and Documents Does My Child Need To Fly? [2024]

Global Entry

International flight with only 1 parent present, age: newborn, age: 0 to 2 years old, age: 2 to 18 years old, minors traveling alone, 18-year-old “kids”, final thoughts.

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Getting the family ready for a big vacation can be a lot of fun, but it can also come with a lot of stress. Even if it isn’t a big vacation, sometimes just the thought of putting your little ones on a plane can bring anxiety.

Making sure that all of your reservations have been made, seats have been assigned, and hotel rooms have been upgraded, all while attempting to keep the kids entertained and behaving properly can be exhausting. This is even before you leave the house.

Add in the fact that your child may or may not need some sort of identification to board a plane can be that extra confusion that a new parent just doesn’t need.

Well, we’re here to lay it all out clearly for you and let you know exactly what you need to fly with your kids!

As an adult over the age of 18, you need a valid government form of ID to board a plane in the U.S., according to the TSA .

If you’re flying internationally, you will need to show your passport or passport card. If you are taking a domestic flight, you will need to show your driver’s license or another form of government ID with your photo on it.

However, for children under the age of 18, that is a different story. Depending on where they are traveling to, and what age they are, they might not need an ID at all.

Since there is a lot of information out there, it can get a little confusing to understand it all. Here, we’ll break it all down for you so that the next time you board a flight with your little one in tow, you will know exactly what you will (and won’t) need.

International Flights

This one is very black and white. Regardless of your age, if you are flying to a different country, you will need to present your passport at check-in, the TSA security checkpoint, and when you arrive at your destination.

Young Child Getting Passport

Even if your child is only a month old, they will need a passport to leave the country. Don’t have a passport yet for your little traveler? Don’t worry, we have a complete guide on how to get a U.S. passport for your baby .

If your destination requires a travel visa , your child will also need to apply for the visa. Since both of these things take time, it’s best to get these done as far in advance as possible.

If for some reason you need to take an international trip immediately after the birth of your child, it’s possible to get passports and visas expedited for an extra cost.

If you have Global Entry , that doesn’t mean that your child will automatically get it as well.

Unlike TSA PreCheck , which can extend to your children ages 17 and under, if you want to take your child through the Global Entry line they will need to go through the same process that you did.

Yes, that means paying the $100 application fee and even in some cases having your infant complete the interview process. Don’t worry, though, there are plenty of credit cards that reimburse the Global Entry fee .

Although this may seem like a hassle, having an official government photo ID of your child will come in handy for many circumstances down the road.

Bottom Line: If you are flying internationally, your child will need a passport (and maybe a visa), regardless of their age.

If you plan on traveling internationally with your child, and both parents will not be traveling together, you will need to provide some additional permission forms.

Depending on the airline and the country you will be flying to (and potentially back from), the requirements may be different.

The most important piece will be a notarized parental consent form signed by both parents and a copy of the non-traveling parent’s passport or valid identification .

If the child has a deceased parent, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the late spouse’s death certificate.

The only exception is if the parent has proof of sole custody as you may be required to present a copy of your custody agreement signed by both parents.

Domestic Flights

Here is where things aren’t so black and white …

Sure, you could just travel with your child’s passport every time you board a flight, but depending on the situation, that probably isn’t necessary. And if there is 1 thing you should hope to never lose during a trip, it’s a passport. So why bring it if you don’t have to?

In most circumstances, children under the age of 18 will not need a photo ID to board a domestic flight if they are accompanied by an adult.

However, there are some circumstances where a photo ID or some official document may be needed for minors to board. Let’s break it down by age group and figure out what documentation your child will need (if anything) to fly.

This will vary by carrier, but most airlines will accept infants as young as 2 days old.

If you find yourself needing to board a plane with an infant less than 2 weeks old, you may be required by the airline to provide a note from your physician stating that the child is healthy enough to fly.

Since this can vary by airline, it’s best to contact your carrier before you travel.

For example, American Airlines requires that a “special assistance coordinator” send a form directly to the physician for them to fill out if the child is less than 7 days old.

Once you pass the 2-week-old window, the only age questions you will come across are whether or not your child has turned 2 years old yet. That is because children under the age of 2 can fly for free as a lap child  on domestic flights as long as they are flying with an adult.

While you won’t be required to show an ID for the child when passing through security, at check-in the airline may require that you prove that the child is under the age of 2 because, obviously, if they are not, the airline will want to charge you for their seat.

Unless your child already has a passport that can be used to prove their birth date, you may need to bring a copy of their birth certificate.

While some airlines are more lenient than others, it’s always best to come prepared. For example, Southwest Airlines is very strict as it always require a copy of the birth certificate or government-issued photo ID at check-in if you want your little one to fly as a lap child .

Hot Tip: If your child turns 2 years old during a trip (hello Disney birthday vacation!), you will be required to pay for a full-priced, round-trip ticket. This would be a good opportunity to book 2 one-way tickets to save a few dollars. 

Baby on American Airlines A321 Business Class

Once your child turns 2 years old they will be required to pay the full airfare and no longer be allowed to fly as a lap child — cue the sad music.

This also means that they won’t be required to prove their age anymore, which means that you don’t have to worry about traveling with an additional ID for them.

Minors under the age of 18 will not need ID to pass through security, they only need a boarding pass to board the plane if they are accompanied by an adult.

Although it isn’t required, it may feel weird traveling without some sort of ID for your kids. So, regardless of where you are traveling to, we suggest having some sort of ID for them.

Sometimes that may mean a printed copy of their birth certificate or passport, or, at the very least, a photo of their passport on your cell phone.

Bottom Line: As long as a minor between the age of 2 and 18 is traveling with an adult they will not need a photo ID to board a plane. 

Here is another circumstance where the information can become a little murky. Since exact requirements may vary by airline, it’s best to contact your carrier directly if you plan on sending your child off on their own.

That being said, some basics seem to be standard across the industry.

Child Travel Consent Form

A child travel consent form is a form that provides proof that the child is authorized to travel alone.

This form will often be provided by the airline — for example, American Airlines refers to it as an Unaccompanied Minor Service Form  and needs it to be completed with the information about who is dropping off the child and who will be picking them up at the final destination.

If the child is traveling alone, they may also be required to have a consent letter signed by both parents.

If the child has a deceased parent, the living parent or guardian will need to sign the consent form and attach a copy of the late spouse’s death certificate. Note: This may only be required for international travel. 

Minors Traveling Alone: Ages 5 to 14

Children age 5 to 14 are not required to show an ID at the time of check-in, however, they are always encouraged to have some sort of ID on them during travel.

If your child already has a passport, at least send them with a copy of it in case of an emergency.

Minors Traveling Alone: Ages 15 to 17

Children ages 15 to 17 may be required to provide some sort of identification, including one of the following:

  • Birth certificate
  • Credit card
  • Driver’s license
  • Learners permit
  • Library card
  • Organization ID (athletics club, theater group, etc.)
  • Passport card
  • Proof of auto insurance in the passenger’s name
  • Social Security card

Bottom Line: If your child will be traveling alone , it’s best to send them with some sort of ID, preferably something with their photo on it. 

Even though your 18-year-old is legally an adult, they are still your little baby and you surely will want to have them prepared when they decide they want to go off on a trip with their friends. Spring Break, anyone?

Well, now that he or she has turned 18, they are legally required to have a valid, current U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID.

The identification must contain a clear photo, date of birth, gender, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature for travel to or from a U.S. territory. Expired documents will not be accepted.

The following is a list of acceptable forms of identification for boarding a U.S. domestic flight:

  • Airline- or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)
  • Border Crossing Card
  • Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) card
  • DHS “Trusted Traveler” cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
  • DHS-designated enhanced driver’s license
  • Driver’s licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by a Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) that meet REAL ID requirements
  • Foreign government-issued passport
  • HSPD-12 PIV card
  • Native American Tribal Photo ID
  • Permanent Resident Card
  • Registered Traveler Card (that contains a name, date of birth, gender, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature)
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
  • U.S. Military ID
  • U.S. passport
  • U.S. passport card
  • Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)

Hot Tip: TSA ID requirements are subject to change, so if you have any concerns, it’s always best to check directly what you need on the TSA’s website . 

At the end of the day, the answer is pretty simple: It’s better to be safe than sorry! If you have an ID for your little one, bring it! You might not need it, but it’s better than being denied boarding.

But, to put it simply, if you are flying internationally , your child will need a passport and potentially a travel visa.

If you are flying domestically and your baby will be flying as a lap child , you may be asked for proof at check-in that they are indeed younger than 2 years old.

If your child is flying domestically on their own ticket (not as a lap child) they probably won’t need any sort of ID until they are 18 years old.

Now, grab your little traveler and start exploring this beautiful world! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my baby need a passport.

If your child will be flying out of the country, they will need a valid passport.

What kind of ID does a child need to fly?

Children under the age of 18 do not need an ID to fly on domestic flights inside of the U.S. as long as they are traveling with an adult.

What documents does a child need to travel without parents?

If a minor is traveling alone, they will need a signed parental consent form.

Do kids pay for flights?

Children under the age of 2 can fly as a lap child. On domestic flights there is no cost; on international flights, it can cost up to 10% of the adult’s ticket value.

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About Chris Hassan

Chris holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management and managed social media for all Marriott properties in South America, making him a perfect fit for UP and its social media channels. He has a passion for making content catered toward family travelers.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S.

Updated Date: April 21, 2022

Since January 22, 2022, DHS has required non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States via land ports of entry and ferry terminals at the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination upon request.  On April 21, 2022, DHS announced that it would extend these requirements. In determining whether and when to rescind this order, DHS anticipates that it will take account of whether the vaccination requirement for non-U.S. air travelers remains in place.

These requirements apply to non-U.S. individuals who are traveling for essential or non-essential reasons. They do not apply to U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or U.S. nationals.

Effective November 8, 2021, new air travel requirements applied to many noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily. These travelers are also required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All air travelers, including U.S. persons, must test negative for COVID-19 prior to departure. Limited exceptions apply. See  CDC guidance  for more details regarding air travel requirements.

Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel.

Entering the U.S. Through a Land Port of Entry or Ferry Terminal

Q. what are the requirements for travelers entering the united states through land poes.

A:  Before embarking on a trip to the United States, non-U.S. travelers should be prepared for the following:

  • Possess proof of an approved COVID-19 vaccination as outlined on the  CDC  website.
  • During border inspection, verbally attest to their COVID-19 vaccination status. 
  • Bring a  Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative  compliant border crossing document, such as a valid passport (and visa if required), Trusted Traveler Program card, a Department of State-issued Border Crossing Card, Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced Tribal Card when entering the country. Travelers (including U.S. citizens) should be prepared to present the WHTI-compliant document and any other documents requested by the CBP officer.

 Q. What are the requirements to enter the United States for children under the age of 18 who can't be vaccinated?

A:  Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs.

Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines will be accepted?

A:  Per CDC guidelines, all Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved and authorized vaccines, as well as all vaccines that have an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO), will be accepted.

Accepted Vaccines:

  • More details are available in CDC guidance  here .
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine;
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series;
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial;
  • 2 weeks (14 days) after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart.

Q. Is the United States requiring travelers to have a booster dose to be considered fully vaccinated for border entry purposes?

A:  No. The CDC guidance for “full vaccination” can be found here.

Q: Do U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land POEs and ferry terminals?

A:  No. Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation.

Q: Is pre- or at-arrival COVID testing required to enter the United States via land POEs or ferry terminals?

A: No, there is no COVID testing requirement to enter the United States via land POE or ferry terminals. In this respect, the requirement for entering by a land POE or ferry terminal differs from arrival via air, where there is a requirement to have a negative test result before departure.

Processing Changes Announced on January 22, 2022 

Q: new changes were recently announced. what changed on january 22.

A:  Since January 22, 2022, non-citizens who are not U.S. nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents have been required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States at land ports of entry and ferry terminals, whether for essential or nonessential purposes. Previously, DHS required that non-U.S. persons be vaccinated against COVID-19 to enter the United States for nonessential purposes.  Effective January 22, all non-U.S. individuals, to include essential travelers, must be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request. DHS announced an extension of this policy on April 21, 2022.

Q: Who is affected by the changes announced on January 22?

A: This requirement does not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. It applies to other noncitizens, such as a citizen of Mexico, Canada, or any other country seeking to enter the United States through a land port of entry or ferry terminal.

Q: Do U.S. citizens need proof of vaccination to return to the United States via land port of entry or ferry terminals?

A: Vaccination requirements do not apply to U.S. Citizens, U.S. nationals or U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. Travelers that exhibit signs or symptoms of illness will be referred to CDC for additional medical evaluation. 

Q: What is essential travel?

A:  Under the prior policy, there was an exception from temporary travel restrictions for “essential travel.” Essential travel included travel to attend educational institutions, travel to work in the United States, travel for emergency response and public health purposes, and travel for lawful cross-border trade (e.g., commercial truckers). Under current policy, there is no exception for essential travel.

Q: Will there be any exemptions? 

A: While most non-U.S. individuals seeking to enter the United States will need to be vaccinated, there is a narrow list of exemptions consistent with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order in the air travel context.

  • Certain categories of individuals on diplomatic or official foreign government travel as specified in the CDC Order
  • Children under 18 years of age;
  • Certain participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials as specified in the CDC Order;   
  • Individuals with medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine as specified in the CDC Order;
  • Individuals issued a humanitarian or emergency exception by the Secretary of Homeland Security;
  • Individuals with valid nonimmigrant visas (excluding B-1 [business] or B-2 [tourism] visas) who are citizens of a country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability, as specified in the CDC Order
  • Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age) as specified in the CDC Order; and
  • Individuals whose entry would be in the U.S. national interest, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Q: What documentation will be required to show vaccination status?

A:  Non-U.S. individuals are required to be prepared to attest to vaccination status and present proof of vaccination to a CBP officer upon request regardless of the purpose of travel.

The current documentation requirement remains the same and is available on the CDC website . Documentation requirements for entry at land ports of entry and ferry terminals mirror those for entry by air.

Q: What happens if someone doesn’t have proof of vaccine status?

A: If non-U.S. individuals cannot present proof of vaccination upon request, they will not be admitted into the United States and will either be subject to removal or be allowed to withdraw their application for entry.

Q: Will incoming travelers be required to present COVID-19 test results?

A: There is no COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers at land border ports of entry, including ferry terminals.

Q: What does this mean for those who can't be vaccinated, either due to age or other health considerations? 

A: See CDC guidance for additional information on this topic. Note that the vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 18 years of age.

Q: Does this requirement apply to amateur and professional athletes?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions.

Q: Are commercial truckers required to be vaccinated?

A: Yes, unless they qualify for one of the narrow CDC exemptions. These requirements also apply to bus drivers as well as rail and ferry operators.

Q. Do you expect border wait times to increase?

A:  As travelers navigate these new travel requirements, wait times may increase. Travelers should account for the possibility of longer than normal wait times and lines at U.S. land border crossings when planning their trip and are kindly encouraged to exercise patience.

To help reduce wait times and long lines, travelers can take advantage of innovative technology, such as facial biometrics and the CBP OneTM mobile application, which serves as a single portal for individuals to access CBP mobile applications and services.

Q: How is Customs and Border Protection staffing the ports of entry? 

A: CBP’s current staffing levels at ports of entry throughout the United States are commensurate with pre-pandemic levels. CBP has continued to hire and train new employees throughout the pandemic. CBP expects some travelers to be non-compliant with the proof of vaccination requirements, which may at times lead to an increase in border wait times. Although trade and travel facilitation remain a priority, we cannot compromise national security, which is our primary mission. CBP Office of Field Operations will continue to dedicate its finite resources to the processing of arriving traffic with emphasis on trade facilitation to ensure economic recovery.

Q: What happens if a vaccinated individual is traveling with an unvaccinated individual?  

A:  The unvaccinated individual (if 18 or over) would not be eligible for admission.

Q: If I am traveling for an essential reason but am not vaccinated can I still enter?

A:  No, if you are a non-U.S. individual. The policy announced on January 22, 2022 applies to both essential and non-essential travel by non-U.S. individual travelers. Since January 22, DHS has required that all inbound non-U.S. individuals crossing U.S. land or ferry POEs – whether for essential or non-essential reasons – be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide related proof of vaccination upon request.

Q: Are sea crew members on vessels required to have a COVID vaccine to disembark?

A:  Sea crew members traveling pursuant to a C-1 or D nonimmigrant visa are not excepted from COVID-19 vaccine requirements at the land border. This is a difference from the international air transportation context.

Entering the U.S. via Air Travel

Q: what are the covid vaccination requirements for air passengers to the united states  .

A:  According to CDC requirements [www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/noncitizens-US-air-travel.html | Link no longer valid], most noncitizens who are visiting the United States temporarily must be fully vaccinated prior to boarding a flight to the United States. These travelers are required to show proof of vaccination. A list of covered individuals is available on the CDC website.  

Q: What are the COVID testing requirements for air passengers to the United States?  

A:  Effective Sunday, June 12 at 12:01 a.m. ET, CDC will no longer require pre-departure COVID-19 testing for U.S.-bound air travelers.

  • Border Security
  • Transportation Security
  • Airport Security
  • Coronavirus (COVID-19)
  • Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
  • Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

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Do minors need identification to travel?

Each airline determines identification requirements for minors. Contact your airline well in advance of your travel date to determine if they have unique policies or procedures for minors.

Typically, minors under the age of 18 do not have to present identification for domestic U.S. travel. Airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult on behalf of the minor(s). 

For international travel, minors under the age of 18 must present the same travel documents as the adult.

Please visit the Transportation Security Administration's website for more information.

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Everything you need to know about TSA requirements for minors

Allison Tibaldi

December 13, 2022 // By Allison Tibaldi

By Allison Tibaldi December 13, 2022

Know TSA requirements for minors before you go

Travel can be an invaluable childhood experience. Unfortunately, air travel has more than its fair share of hassles. However, if you and your kids are prepared, the journey may be less stressful. We’ve broken down the Transportation Security Administration’s rules on flying with minors, so you won’t be caught off guard the next time you’re heading to the airport. Read on and you’ll sail through your flight with flying colors.

Do minors need an ID to fly domestically?

Each airline sets forth their policy, so checking in with the carrier is highly suggested. For domestic flights, children under 18 typically do not need personal identification. The ID of the accompanying responsible adult will suffice. (Note: The new rules on REAL ID-complaint cards that go into effect in May 2025 only apply to travelers age 18 and older.)

On some airlines, kids ages 2-11 receive a discounted fare and/or infants under 2 years of age can fly free when sitting on an adult’s lap. In these cases, you may be asked for documentation, such as the child's birth certificate, to show proof of age.

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Do minors need an ID to fly internationally?

Regardless of age, all passengers, including infants, need a valid passport to fly internationally. If a minor is flying with only one parent, that parent may be asked for additional documentation, such as a notarized consent form signed by the non-present parent. If the parent has sole custody, paperwork demonstrating this may be necessary. If one parent is deceased, a copy of the death certificate may be requested.

Can minors fly without an adult?

Children traveling without an adult are known as unaccompanied minors. Kids younger than age 5 are not permitted to fly alone. Most airlines allow children between ages 5-11, or sometimes between ages 5-14, to fly solo. In these instances, an airline employee chaperones the unaccompanied minor for an additional fee. Some airlines only allow unaccompanied minors on nonstop routes, while others permit them on connecting flights. Minors age 12 (15 on some airlines) and older may travel solo without supervision.

Some children see flying alone as an adventure, but for others, it causes anxiety. Walk your child through each step of the journey, troubleshoot potential pitfalls and convey a positive attitude to help your child build confidence.

What is the process for minors who fly unaccompanied?

Parents need to fill out paperwork before their child boards. Usually, parents are given a pass that allows them to go through airport security and accompany their child to the gate. Children are sometimes given badges that state their unaccompanied minor status. Airline chaperones will meet unaccompanied minors at the gate and help them board. Once the plane lands, the chaperone will escort the child off of the plane and wait with the minor until a preapproved guardian picks them up.

How do I get a passport for my child?

Children younger than 16 are not eligible for mail-in passport applications and must apply in person at a passport acceptance facility, to include approved post offices and public libraries. Both parents must authorize the issuance of their child’s passport. If one parent is not able to accompany the child to the passport facility, a notarized consent form must be presented. If one parent has sole legal custody, proof of this status must be shown. Children’s passports are valid for five years.

How does airport security handle screening for kids?

Children age 13 and older follow the same security screening process that adults do. Children age 12 and younger undergo a modified security screening, keeping their shoes and light jackets on. Infants must be removed from their strollers and carried through security in their parent’s arms.

Children’s carry-on items must go on the X-ray belt for screening. If your child prefers to travel with a treasured toy or other object, such as a stuffed animal or favorite blanket, it is important to let them know beforehand, so they’ll be prepared to say goodbye to Teddy without a tantrum.

Drinkable liquids, including breast milk, in excess of the standard 3.4-ounce limit are allowed as carry-ons for infants and toddlers, as they are deemed medically necessary liquids.

If you have TSA PreCheck, this extends to your children ages 12 and under.

Do I need to purchase a ticket for my baby or toddler?

On most airlines, children younger than 2 years fly free when sitting on their parent’s lap. Though not required, the Federal Aviation Administration recommends all young children be strapped into an FAA-approved child restraint system (better known as a car seat) while in flight. If you want to be certain your baby is strapped in a car seat, you’ll need to purchase a separate seat.

Allison Tibaldi

About Allison Tibaldi

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles.  She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education.  She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly. 

Read more about Allison Tibaldi here.

Connect with Allison via: Website | Instagram | Twitter

CDC updates guidance, says unvaccinated foreign tourists under 18 will not need to quarantine

under 18 travel requirements

Unvaccinated children visiting the United States will not need to quarantine upon arrival under the country's new travel rules, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Saturday.

The new U.S. air travel system, which goes into effect Nov. 8,  requires vaccinations among most foreign tourists . Some travelers – such as children under 18 and people with a history of negative reactions to COVID-19 vaccines –  are exempt from the vaccination requirement. 

According to an amended document signed by CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, noncitizens under 18 years old who are not immigrating to the U.S. will still need to fill out an attestation form that says they will arrange to get tested for the coronavirus three to five days after arrival, but they will not need to promise to arrange a seven-day quarantine period after arrival. 

“Based on the potential difficulty that self-quarantine may pose to children under 18 years of age especially when accompanied by a vaccinated parent or guardian who is not required to self-quarantine, CDC has determined that self-quarantine should not be required,” the order reads. 

► Vaccines for kids: FDA authorizes Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for kids 5-11

Foreign travelers under 18 years old also do not have to agree to receive a vaccination after arrival “given the still evolving circumstances of vaccination for children,” according to the document. They will still need to quarantine if they develop COVID-19 symptoms or their post-arrival test is positive.

CDC documents released Monday said all foreign nationals traveling to the U.S. who are exempt from the vaccine mandate would need to quarantine seven days upon arrival or potentially face fines or penalties.

Parents planning to visit the U.S. took to social media, questioning whether the quarantine mandate applied to children, many of whom are too young to get inoculated. Others worried they would have to cancel planned family trips to the country. 

► Who is exempt?: These select groups of unvaccinated foreign travelers can enter the US 

The updated guidance differs slightly from statements made earlier this week by Cindy Friedman , the CDC's chief of the traveler’s health branch, who said unvaccinated children would only be exempt from quarantine if they were traveling with vaccinated adults. 

“CDC believes that this approach fairly balances the interests of families traveling to the United States with protecting the public health,” the updated CDC document says. “CDC guidance strongly recommends vaccination for all eligible children under 18.”

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

UponArriving

UponArriving

under 18 travel requirements

Do Children Need ID to Fly? (Domestic & International) [2022]

Are you thinking about flying with a child but not sure as to what type of ID they will need to get through airport security? It’s not always 100% clear as to what your child under the age of 18 will need.

In this article, I will break down both the TSA and airline requirements for children under the age of 18.

You’ll see how things like proof of age are handled for both domestic and international flights and get a sense of what type of IDs are acceptable.

Table of Contents

Do children need ID to fly?

TSA does not require  children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States.

However, US airlines each handle ID requirements differently for travelers under 18 and TSA recommends that you contact the airline for questions regarding their specific ID requirements.

Here is how it usually works:

Typically, if the child is under 18 but flying with an adult who has an ID, the child will not need identification. However, if they are under the age of 18 and traveling alone some airlines may require some form of identification or proof of age.

In addition, when flying as an unaccompanied minor, the child may need some type of ID or proof of age in order to check in.

For international travel with children under 18, all airlines will require a passport and some airlines may request supporting documentation. For example, the parents may need to sign off that the child has permission to travel internationally.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

Domestic travel

Most airlines state that children under the age of 18 do not need an ID with them when flying with adults (people 18 and above).

But when kids under 18 are flying alone, it gets a little complicated.

First, they may have to fly as an unaccompanied minor if they fall within that age window.

The age window for unaccompanied minors differs for each airline but you can find a breakdown of the policies for each major US airline here .

If the child has to fly as an unaccompanied minor, the airline may want you to show some form of identification or proof of age such as a birth certificate when you’re checking in.

If the minor is older than the maximum age for an unaccompanied minor, they may have to bring ID.

For example, United Airlines is very clear that they require identification documents for children ages 15 to 17. Hawaiian Airlines also requires kids to have IDs unless they are with someone 18 and older who has an ID.

But some airlines require no ID for young kids, even when flying alone. For example, Southwest will allow children 12 and older to fly by themselves with no form of identification.

With that said, it’s good practice to always have some form of identification on the child at all times. Not just for check-in but also in case anything comes up during their travels.

under 18 travel requirements

Airline policies for kids’ IDs

In the sections below, you’ll notice that many airlines use the words “may” or “recommended” when talking about proof of age or identification needed. For example, “proof of age may be needed….”

This can make things a little bit vague when you’re trying to find out a clear answer on what will be needed for your child’s identification.

This is why I think it’s a good idea to follow the recommendation by the airlines and always have children carry around an ID or proof of age documentation.

These typically will be a student ID or birth certificate but other forms may work as well such as:

  • Driver’s license
  • Credit card
  • Library card
  • Social Security card
  • Organization ID (such as athletic club, etc.)
  • Proof of auto insurance in passenger’s name

It’s always best to just check with the airline to see if your type of ID will be helpful or necessary.

Having a child carry around an ID is always a good idea but this is especially true if the child looks much different than their age.

A child that looks much younger than their age may look like they need to qualify as an unaccompanied minor which could raise red flags.

And a child that looks much older than they are could make them look like they are 18 or above and in need of an official ID.

International travel

International travel is much different than domestic travel when it comes to kids needing IDs.

If a child is traveling internationally they will be expected to provide the same documentation that an adult would provide.

Usually, this means that the child will need a passport and possibly a visa. If the child is traveling without any adults on an international route they also may need a letter of consent.

And finally, some countries have special requirements for documents when flying with children to prevent things like human trafficking so be sure to be aware of those.

Below, we will take a look at the individual policy for major US airlines.

As mentioned above, it’s not always 100% clear as to what the policy is because it sounds like discretion can be used at times. So my advice is to always be prepared with some form of age verification.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines requires each traveler aged 18 or older to present valid government-issued ID and show it to a customer service agent and at the security checkpoint.

Children under the age of 18 don’t need photo ID when they are traveling domestically.

This took me by surprise a little bit because it means that a 16-year-old can fly on Alaska Airlines without having to show any type of ID, even if they are flying alone. However, I spoke with a representative from Alaska Airlines and they verified that this is correct.

(In fact, when I contacted multiple airlines I realized that children who are above the unaccompanied minor age limit typically do not need IDs to fly when flying alone.)

Minors (under age 18) traveling internationally without both parents may be required to present a letter of consent signed by any/all non-traveling parents.

Related: Alaska Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy (Junior Jetsetters)  

Link to Alaska’s policy

American Airlines

American Airlines states that you “may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18.”

They do not seem very clear-cut about things but basically it just sounds like it would be a good idea to have a proof of age document on hand in case it is needed.

American Airlines has an unaccompanied minor policy that requires children aged five through fourteen to be accompanied through the airport for an additional fee. And once again, the proof of age documentation may be needed here as well. 

Children or infants traveling outside the U.S. are required to have the same documentation as an adult. If anyone under 18 is traveling internationally without both parents, they may be required to present a Letter of Consent.

Link to American Airlines’ policy

under 18 travel requirements

Delta Airlines

Delta Airlines states that children under 18 years of age do not need to present an ID when traveling domestically.

But they also point out that:

Children ages 15-17 are permitted to travel as a standard passenger, provided they can present a valid ID to security personnel. If parents or guardians prefer, they can also travel as an unaccompanied minor.

This would suggest that unless they are flying as an unaccompanied minor, children 15 and above will need a valid ID when flying alone. But a Delta phone rep contradicted this so IDs may not be needed.

Delta Airlines requires children aged five through fourteen to be accompanied through the airport.

Link to Delta Airlines’ policy

Hawaiian Airlines

Children and teenagers under 18 years of age do not need an ID when traveling with a companion who has a valid ID . I spoke with a Hawaiian Airlines representative who stated that the companion with a valid ID would need to be 18 years or older.

So according to that rep, if a 15-year-old is trying to fly with no ID and they are accompanied by a 17-year-old with an ID, that would NOT be sufficient. The ID holder must be 18 or older.

Kids 12 and over can fly by themselves as long as they have some form of ID such as a school ID card or birth certificate.

Children under 12 may have to travel as a unaccompanied minor if they are not accompanied by someone who is at least 15 years old and in the same class of service as the child.

As for the international policy, they state, “All travelers, including infants and children, must have a valid U.S. passport when traveling internationally. A visa may also be required for entry at your destination.”

Related: Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy Guide 

Link to Hawaiian Airlines’ policy

under 18 travel requirements

Customers 18 years of age and older will be required to show a U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID that contains the following information: name, date of birth, gender, expiration date and a tamper-resistant feature.

Children under the age of 18 and traveling on a domestic flight do not need to show identification or documentation unless they are under 14 days old or traveling as a lap child. This means that a 15-year-old could fly on JetBlue without needing to present any type of ID, for example.

Worth noting: JetBlue requires children ages five through thirteen traveling without an accompanying passenger aged 14 or older to travel as unaccompanied minors (UMs). 

For international routes, a valid passport is required for all customers (regardless of age) who are traveling to/from the United States and any country in the Western Hemisphere. World Passports are not accepted for travel on any JetBlue flight.

Link to JetBlue’s policy

Southwest Airlines

Neither Southwest Airlines nor the TSA require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States.

Basically if a kid is 12 and older they can fly alone without needing an ID. If they are younger than that, they will be flying as an unaccompanied minor , which are children ages 5 to 11 traveling without an accompanying passenger age 12 or older.  

These children must be escorted to the airport by a guardian and provide proof of age documentation such as a birth certificate.

For international travel, a passport book for each minor (and all Passengers) must be verified by a Customer Service Agent or kiosk at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter on the day of travel before a boarding pass is issued.

Minors under the age of 18 are not permitted to fly unaccompanied on international flights or any itinerary that includes an international flight.

Link to Southwest Airlines’ policy

under 18 travel requirements

Spirit Airlines

Passengers 18 years of age or older must have valid, government-issued photo identification.

Spirit Airlines requires children ages five through fourteen traveling without an accompanying passenger aged 15 or older to travel as unaccompanied minors (UMs). 

Guests 15 years old and older are not required to have Unaccompanied Minor service, but they may be asked to present a picture ID or birth certificate to verify their age.

So once again, we see the “may” be asked language when it comes to showing verification of age. This also is an example of where the solo-flyer ID requirement starts to come into the picture when a child hits about 15 years old.

Link to Spirit Airlines’ policy

United Airlines

Children under the age of 18 traveling with an adult are not required to show ID at time of check-in. However, children ages 15 to 17 traveling alone need one of the following:

  • Birth certificate

Children ages 5 to 14 traveling alone are not required to show ID at time of check-in, however, they are encouraged to carry some form of ID during travel.

United requires children between the ages of five to 14 years old traveling without an adult (someone at least the age of 18) to use United’s unaccompanied minor service .

Link to United Airlines’ policy

When flying with someone 18 years or older that has an ID, it seems that most of the airlines will not require a child to have an ID and neither will TSA.

Unfortunately, it’s not always 100% clear as to what type of proof of age or identification a child will need when flying alone.

Some airlines have very clear age requirements for bringing IDs or proof of age but others state that these may be needed or that they are encouraged which means that discretion could be involved.

Because of that, the best practice would be to have any child flying alone to always carry some form of proof of age or identification.

under 18 travel requirements

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

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Traveling alone can be an exciting test of a minor’s independence; but whether it is appropriate depends on each minor’s individual maturity level. By purchasing this reservation, you acknowledge and confirm that:  

  • We consider children ages 12 through 17 traveling alone to be Young Travelers (YTs), not Unaccompanied Minors (UMs). Accordingly, our UM procedures do not apply to travelers ages 12 through 17. A Young Traveler must have the maturity and capability to travel alone, including but not limited to checking in, passing through the security checkpoint, boarding, deplaning, and claiming luggage.   
  • Parents and guardians are responsible for ensuring a Young Traveler arrives for check-in and boarding in accordance with each airport’s suggested arrival time . The amount of time to park, check luggage, pass through the security checkpoint, and board the flight varies based on each airport’s size, configuration, and travel season.  
  • Additional Unaccompanied Minor Info for Travel to Hawaii: Flights between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii are subject to specific procedures for transportation of animals and plants, inspection of checked and carryon baggage, and State of Hawaii documentation requirements. The parent/guardian of a Young Traveler (YT) must complete the Plants and Animals Declaration Form at the departure gate prior to the YT boarding the aircraft. Once completed, the form will be retained by the YT until it is collected during the flight prior to landing.  

Only trained service dogs assisting Customers with disabilities are permitted to travel with Customers. No other animals are permitted on flights between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii. Southwest Airlines does not transport pets to or from Hawaii.

  • Your child has sufficient maturity and capability to travel alone (this includes, but is not limited to, checking in, passing through the security checkpoint, boarding, deplaning, and claiming luggage), without adult supervision or assistance from Southwest Employees, on all scheduled service: nonstop, same-plane service with intermediate stops, and connecting service that requires your child to change planes.  
  • Purchaser represents that they are either the parent or guardian of the minor child or has authority to act on behalf of the parent or guardian.  
  • Parents/guardians wishing to escort a Young Traveler to/from the gate must obtain a gate pass from the ticket counter to pass through the security checkpoint. Each airport may impose restrictions on gate passes being issued based on guidance from the local Transportation Security Administration.  
  • Southwest does not monitor Young Travelers during travel. Accordingly, each Young Traveler must have sufficient maturity and capability to request assistance from a Southwest Employee if needed and the means to contact a parent/guardian if there is a travel disruption.  
  • Southwest Airlines reserves the right not to allow travel on flights that may be delayed, diverted, or canceled due to weather or other operational disruptions.
  • Southwest Airlines does not provide Young Traveler service to/from international destinations.
  • Southwest does not permit Young Travelers to travel on itineraries involving an overnight connection.  
  • Southwest Airlines does not assume responsibility for any Young Traveler’s actions. THE PURCHASER AGREES TO INDEMNIFY, HOLD HARMLESS, AND FULLY RELEASE SOUTHWEST AIRLINES FOR ANY AND ALL INJURY OR DAMAGES TO PROPERTY OR PERSONS CAUSED BY OR INCURRED AS A RESULT OF A YOUNG TRAVELER’S ACTIONS, INCLUDING INJURIES TO THE YOUNG TRAVELER CAUSED BY HIS OR HER OWN NEGLIGENCE.  

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Traveling with children

Traveling with children and infants.

We are committed to caring for people on life’s journey and want you and your children to have a safe and positive travel experience. To allow enough time for check-in, arrive early and be sure to have any required travel documents. You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18.

  • Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate.
  • Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.

You can travel with a breast pump and small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk in addition to your carry-on or personal item. These items don’t have to be checked and are allowed even when you’re not traveling with a child. Also, most airports have nursing rooms and stations available for your convenience.

If you’re a family traveling with children under 15, we want to help make sure you’re seated together on your flight. Here are some tips for when you book:

  • Be sure to book everyone in the same reservation.
  • The farther in advance you book, the better. (Seats become limited closer to the day of travel.)
  • On the seat map, choose seats for your entire family or skip seats for that flight.
  • It’s better to skip seats than to choose just a few seats or seats scattered throughout the cabin. Our gate agents can try to reseat you but getting seats together the day of travel is difficult.

If you skip seats

If you’re unable to choose seats, don’t want to pay for seats, or chose a Basic Economy fare, our system will detect that you’re a family traveling. The system will search for seats together automatically before the day of departure. We’ll try our best to keep you together, but if seats are limited, we’ll assign seats so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult.

Children and adults traveling in separate reservations

If you and your children are traveling together but have separate reservations, call Reservations so we can note it in each reservation.

Contact Reservations

Children 2 or older are required to have their own seat, a ticketed adult fare. Children under 5 can’t travel alone under any circumstances.

If you don't choose seats in Main Cabin or Basic Economy, we’ll assign seats a few days after you buy your tickets so children under 15 are next to at least 1 adult they’re traveling with.

We welcome infants as young as 2 days old, but infants under 7 days old must have a doctor's letter stating that they are medically cleared to travel.

Keep in mind:

  • Only 1 infant may be seated in the lap of each ticketed accompanying adult and the infant must be included in the reservation.
  • Additional infants under 2 years old must be ticketed and occupy an infant safety seat or in a separate aircraft seat.
  • The infant must be under 2 years of age for the duration of the trip. If they turn 2 during a trip, they will need their own seat for the remainder of the trip.

Adding an infant to your trip

If you’re traveling within the U.S., including Puerto Rico, you can add an infant to your trip when you book on aa.com, or later once it is ticketed. You only need to contact Reservations if you’re traveling with an infant who is under 7 days old; or if you’re traveling outside of the U.S. (taxes and a percentage of the adult fare may apply on international trips).

Book a new trip

  • Book your trip on aa.com
  • Enter your information on the ‘Passenger details’ page
  • Select ‘add infant in lap’

Book a trip

Update an existing trip

  • Find your trip on aa.com
  • Scroll to the ‘Passengers’ section

Find your trip

Call Reservations if:

  • You’re traveling with an infant who is less than 7 days old
  • You’re not traveling within the U.S., and Puerto Rico

Reserved seat

If your infant will travel in their own seat, you must buy a ticket. The infant must either travel in a safety seat approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or be able to sit upright in their seat without assistance and have their seatbelt securely fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.

Bassinets and changing tables

  • Changing tables are available in the lavatories of all wide-body aircraft.
  • Bassinets are available on a first come, first serve basis at the gate for travel only on 777-200, 777-300 and 787 aircraft.*
  • Bassinets are not available in First / Business cabins.

*Infants using bassinets must be younger than 2 years old and weigh no more than 20lbs (9kg)

Acceptable safety seats

Most safety seats that are approved for use in motor vehicles are acceptable for use in aircraft. The seat must have a solid back and seat, restraint straps installed to securely hold the child and a label indicating approval for use on an aircraft.

The label may include:

  • These notes: 'This child restraint system conforms to all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards' and 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircrafts' or 'this restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.'
  • Approval of a foreign government or a label showing that the seat was manufactured under the standards of the United Nations.
  • The safety seat can't be used in an exit row or in the rows on either side of an exit row; window seats are preferred.
  • Install the seat in the direction appropriate for the size of the child and according to the instructions on the label.
  • The child must remain in the safety seat with the harness fastened during taxi, takeoff, landing and whenever the 'fasten seatbelt' sign is on.
  • To carry on a safety seat, you must have bought a seat for the child, or a seat must be available next to you. If an unoccupied, adjoining seat is not available, the gate agent will check the safety seat to your final destination.

Review seat dimensions before your trip.

Safety seats are not allowed in First or Business on select planes due to the seat angles.

Airbus 321T

  • Boeing 777-200
  • Boeing 777-300
  • Boeing 787-800
  • Boeing 787-900
  • Any device without an approval label
  • Booster seats with no approval label or shoulder harness
  • Vest and/or harness-type devices, except Aviation Child Safety Devices (ACSD) showing the FAA aircraft approval label
  • Belt extensions that attach to the parent or the parent's restraint
  • Any device that positions a child on the lap or chest of an adult

Carry-on and checked bags

If you’re flying internationally with an infant on your lap, we’ll issue the infant a ticket. You may check 1 bag for the infant at the same rate as the adult’s first checked bag.

  • Each ticketed customer is allowed 1 stroller and 1 car seat to be checked free of charge
  • Strollers over 20 lbs / 9 kgs must be checked at the ticket counter
  • All other strollers should be checked at the gate before boarding
  • If you have a stroller and a car seat only 1 can be checked at the gate
  • Breast pumps and a small, soft-sided cooler of breast milk don’t count as your carry-on or personal item
  • Play pens, wagons, cribs and 'pack and play' count as regular bags
  • If any of these exceed carry-on limits they’ll be checked and incur regular fees

International documents

Children or infants traveling outside the U.S. are required to have the same documentation as an adult. If anyone under 18 is traveling internationally without both parents, they may be required to present a Letter of Consent.

International travel

Traveling during pregnancy

If your due date is within 4 weeks of your flight, you must provide a doctor’s certificate stating that you’ve been recently examined and you’re fit to fly.

Special assistance throughout your trip

For domestic flights under 5 hours, you won’t be permitted to travel within 7 days (before and after) your delivery date. If you need to travel within this time frame:

  • Approval from your physician and a special assistance coordinator is required.
  • Your physician will be required to fill out a passenger medical form before your flight. A special assistance coordinator will send the form directly to your physician.

Clearance from a special assistance coordinator is required for international travel or travel over water:

  • Within 4 weeks of your due date (travel also requires a physician's note stating that you’ve been examined within the past 48 hours and you’re fit to fly)
  • 7 days before or after your delivery (travel also requires a passenger medical form to be completed by your physician)

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

  • British Airways
  • Japan Airlines
  • Qatar Airways

TSA PreCheck Is Now Free for Teenagers Traveling With Their Parents

By Jessica Puckett

An illustration of a family traveling in the airport.

On Monday, officials announced a new TSA PreCheck policy that will ease the airport process for families with older kids: All children under the age of 18 can now accompany a parent or guardian through the faster PreCheck line, free of charge.

Previously, the agency only allowed children 12 years old or younger to accompany parents through the PreCheck line without having a membership of their own. Now with the addition of teenagers aged 13 to 17, families with older kids are also granted a smoother process in the airport security line. (Of course, the parent or guardian accompanying the minors must be a current member of PreCheck and have it designated on their boarding pass.) 

Especially for families traveling with children, having a PreCheck membership can save a lot of time in the terminal, as it means members and their kids don’t need to remove liquids, laptops or other large electronics from their bags, and they can keep on light jackets and shoes, too. In April, 94 percent of PreCheck passengers waited less than five minutes at the security checkpoint, according to the TSA . Memberships are $78 per adult and last for five years, though many travel rewards credit cards offer statement credits that cover the fee.

If you are a current PreCheck member, make sure to input your known traveler number on every airline reservation for the most seamless experience at the airport. It might seem like an obvious step, but it’s one that many travelers forget, according to the TSA, and it leads to confusion and tension at the security line—all completely avoidable with proper planning. (If you forget to input your known traveler number when booking, you can have an airline agent add it to your boarding pass at the terminal's check-in counter .)

Allowing teenagers through TSA PreCheck with their parents is just one way the agency is preparing for the busy summer season, during which a record-breaking number of travelers are expected at airports this year. On the Friday before Memorial Day Weekend alone, the TSA predicts that 2.6 million people will be processed through U.S. airports. The agency has added new X-ray machines that mean travelers need to remove fewer items from bags and has added self-service, facial recognition scanners to the podiums in front of the checkpoints for faster processing.

Another tactic to smooth out operations? Hiring more officers at checkpoints and offering improved compensation. “Our staffing levels are better, and this is largely due to better pay for all TSA employees, which starts on July 1st,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in a statement. The pay increase means TSA officers will be compensated on the same pay scale as other federal employees for the first time. “As expected, this has already improved our recruiting and retention rates,” Pekoske said. “For passengers, this will mean better overall staffing for all of TSA’s activities that support secure and efficient travel and an improved passenger experience.”

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Country-Specific Regulations

Travel from brazil.

Resources : For more information regarding Brazil’s documentation requirements, please click on the link below or contact the consulate in the child’s country of residence.

  • Cartilha de Viagem de Menores ao Exterior to view a guide released by Brazilian authorities. 
  • To view a standard authorization form please visit:

        http://www.cnj.jus.br/programas-e-acoes/viagem-ao-exterior

Requirements for passengers under the age of 18:

  • Passengers who are traveling with only one of the parents/legal guardians must have a notarized letter with authorization from the other parent/legal guardian
  • A passenger traveling alone or accompanied by someone other than the parents/legal guardians must have a notarized letter with authorization from both parents/legal guardians
  • Judicial authorization will be required for travel of Brazilian citizens under 18 if accompanied by an adult that is not a Brazilian citizen and resides abroad, provided (1) such adult is not the parent/legal guardian of the minor or (2) the minor, though born in Brazil, does not have Brazilian citizenship

Exemptions: Authorization is not required for minors traveling with both parents or non-Brazilian citizens that were not born in Brazil.

Flying to or from Canada

Minors under age 14 traveling to or from Canada have the option of sitting next to or near a parent, guardian or tutor. Delta makes every reasonable effort to seat children in close proximity to caregivers according to age group:

  • Minors under 5: Adjacent seating.
  • Minors aged 5–11: Same-row seating with no more than one seat of separation.
  • Minors aged 12 or 13: Seated with no more than one row of separation. 

Accommodations may require seat reassignment, and a Delta agent will reseat eligible passengers in these circumstances based on availability. Accommodation may include requesting other passengers to voluntarily change seats at the time of boarding and before takeoff, and as such, cannot be guaranteed. Note: While promoted system-wide, these arrangements pertain only to minors flying to or from Canada. 

If an adjusted seating arrangement results in relocation to a different cabin class, passengers will be reimbursed for the difference if in a lower class of service or asked to provide supplementary payment if a higher class of service is selected, depending on the difference in service level for that cabin.

Travel to or from the Dominican Republic

Travel from italy.

All unaccompanied minors of Italian citizenship under the age of 14 that are traveling internationally are required to have the following documents:

  • Individual passport (according to the Ministerial Circular n. 400/A/2012/23.1.3 attached)
  • “Dichiarazione di accompagno” duly authorized by the Police Authority (“Questura”). 

The current regulation applies to: 

Italian citizens under 14 years traveling as an Unaccompanied Minor (Requirement)

  • In addition to a passport, the passenger must have a notarized affidavit from the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child confirming that the minor has permission to travel as an unaccompanied minor.
  • This document must be signed by the parent(s) or by the legal guardian(s) and authenticated by the Police Headquarters (Questura) and include the name of the airline to which the minor is entrusted.

Exemptions:

  • Authorization is not required for minors traveling with parents.
  • Authorization is not required for non-Italian citizens.
  • Authorization is not required for UMNR 14 years and older.

The “Dichiarazione di Accompagno” forms are to be prepared and held by the unaccompanied minor, in the unaccompanied minor envelope with their passport. Find more information on traveling as an unaccompanied minor . 

Copies of the declaration are to be retained by the origination station for 5 Years. Click on the recommended authorization form , opens in a new window for Passengers to follow in Italian

Travel from to/from Mexico

Travel to/from south africa, the amended regulation applies to minor travel if:, 1. both parents are traveling with the minor – (requirement).

Where the minor is a South African national, in addition to a valid passport, parents need an original stamped or sealed birth certificate or certified copy.

Where the minor is a foreign national, a valid passport is all that is required.  See additional details under the “Exemptions” header below. 2. One parent is traveling with a minor – (Requirement)

Where the minor is a South African national, in addition to a valid passport, the parent needs an original stamped or sealed birth certificate or certified copy and one of the applicable items below:

  • Parental consent letter from the non-traveling parent listed in the birth certificate — authorizing minor to enter or depart from South Africa.  To be valid, the parent consent letter must not be older than six (6) months from the date presented and must include contact details and a copy of the passport of the non-traveling parent.
  • For a sole parent or legal guardian: a court order that indicates full parental responsibilities/rights or legal guardianship
  • Where applicable, a death certificate of the other parent who is registered as the parent on the birth certificate

Where the minor is a foreign national , a valid passport is all that is required.  See additional details under the “Exemptions” header below.

3. Persons traveling with a minor that is a South African national who is not their biological child – (Requirement) Where the minor is a South African national , the following documents are required:

  • Valid passport for minor
  • Certified copy of the birth certificate
  • Parental consent letter from the parents or legal guardians of the minor confirming that minor has permission to travel with non-related person
  • Copies of the identity documents or passports of the parents or legal guardian of the minor
  • Contact details of the parents or legal guardian of the minor
  • A certified copy of the death certificates of the parents who are registered as the parents on the birth certificate
  • A certified copy of the adoption order granting full parental responsibilities / rights or legal guardianship
  • A court order that indicates full parental responsibilities / rights or legal guardianship

Where the minor is a foreign national, a valid passport is all that is required.  See additional details under the “Exemptions” header below.

4. Unaccompanied minors – (Requirement)

  • A certified copy of the birth certificate
  • Parental consent letters from the parent(s) / legal guardian(s) authorizing travel into/out of South Africa
  • A copy of the identity document(s) or valid passport(s) of the parent(s) / legal guardian(s)
  • A letter from the person receiving the child in South Africa; containing their South Africa residential address and contact details and where the child will reside
  • A copy of identity documents or valid passport (and where applicable, visa or permanent residence permit) of the person receiving the child in South Africa
  • Parent/Legal guardian contact details

5. Child in Alternative Care –(Requirement)

Where the minor has been placed in foster care, temporary safe care, or care of a child and youth care center following an order of a court in terms of the Children’s Act, 2005, or the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Alternative Care) , the following documents are required:

  • Letter from the Provincial Head of the Department of Social Development where the child resides authorizing departure from South Africa
  • South African minors traveling on South African passports may travel to and within South Africa without birth certificates.
  • Minors in possession of valid South African visas are not required to produce identity documents already submitted as part of their visa applications when traveling through a South African port of entry (e.g., a birth certificate).
  • Where a minor has a passport that contains the details of their parent(s), the minor is not required to produce a birth certificate as well
  • School tours — South Africa immigration will accept a letter from the school’s Principal to cover all minors on a school tour.
  • Birth certificate and additional documentation is not required for those transiting South Africa.
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For travel within the United States

Travelers 18 years of age and older are required to show a valid, current U.S. federal or state-issued photo ID that contains the following: name, date of birth, gender, expiration date and a tamper-resistant feature. These IDs include:

  • Driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
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  • Registered Traveler Card (that contains name, date of birth, gender, expiration date, and a tamper-resistant feature)
  • Foreign government-issued passport
  • Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) card
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

If you don't present an acceptable ID you may be subject to additional screening. Starting May 7, 2025, you won’t be allowed through the security checkpoint if you don’t have a REAL-ID compliant license or one of the other acceptable forms of identification listed above.

Note: TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States.

For travel outside the United States 

All U.S. citizens and nonimmigrant aliens from Canada, Bermuda, and Mexico departing from or entering the United States from within the Western Hemisphere traveling by air are required to present one of the following:

  • A valid Passport
  • Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
  • U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders
  • U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business. 

Note that children are also required to present their own passport when traveling by air.  

  • Requirements for lawful permanent residents of the United States are not changed by the implementation of WHTI. Lawful permanent residents must continue to present a valid Permanent Resident Card. A passport is not required.

For more information about international travel documentation, visit the U.S Customs and Borders Protection website . Some countries require a Visa. Visit the U.S Department of State website to learn more about Visa requirements.  

To answer all your questions about international travel, visit our International Travel and Security page .

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Traveling to Europe with kids? What to know about vaccination and entry rules

Sasha Brady

Mar 31, 2022 • 9 min read

Happy mother and son traveling to Paris and playing to be on a plane near the Eiffel Tower

The EU has introduced flexible vaccination rules for children traveling under the EU Digital COVID Certificate © Getty Images

Do children need a booster for travel in Europe this summer? Can unvaccinated children travel? Here's what you need to know as the European Union (EU) introduces flexible travel rules for people under the age of 18.

Across the EU, tourists who completed their primary jabs more than 270 days ago need a booster to enter countries such as France , Spain and Italy  — or be considered unvaccinated and therefore subject to additional rules such as testing.

This recommendation was introduced by the European Commission (the legal arm of the EU) on February 1 under the EU Digital COVID Certificate regulation . Most EU member states adopted it, though some, such as Ireland , Denmark and Sweden , have since scrapped all COVID-19 entry requirements at their borders.

What it's like for Americans proving they are vaccinated in Europe

Teenagers students using smartphone on a school break

This week, the Commission introduced new rules on the EU digital COVID certificate that exempt children under the age of 18 from the 270 days acceptance period following the primary vaccination series. This means that children are considered fully vaccinated after having received their primary dose; whether that's a two-shot vaccine series or a one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine. 

By April 6, this new feature will be included in the mobile app used to verify EU Digital COVID Certificates so that children's certificates remain active without the booster.

In a statement, Commissioner for Justice, Didier Reynders, said: "One of the biggest benefits of the EU Digital COVID Certificate is its flexibility to adapt to new circumstances. Following discussions with member states' public health experts, we have decided that the vaccination certificates of minors should not expire. When travelling, they will be able to continue using the certificate received after the primary series of vaccination."

This exemption applies to EU and Schengen Zone citizens and residents traveling within Europe, though some countries can adopt their own entry restrictions regardless of the Commission's ruling.

If you plan to travel to Europe with kids this summer, here's what you need to know about the latest entry rules and how they apply to you, even if you're traveling from countries outside of the EU like the UK and the US.

Can unvaccinated children travel to Europe?

Generally speaking, yes. Children under 12 are typically exempt from vaccination requirements in most countries but many require that children between the age of 12 and 18 have received the primary vaccine course to avoid testing rules.

What countries in Europe have scrapped COVID-19 entry restrictions?

Andorra , Denmark, Hungary , Lithuania , Iceland , Ireland, Montenegro , Norway , Poland , Romania , Slovenia , Sweden, and the United Kingdom have recently dropped all pandemic restrictions at their borders, meaning people no longer have to show vaccination certificates or negative tests to enter these countries, regardless of where they are coming from.

Two kids walking to the beach

Countries in Europe with travel restrictions

Here are some of the destinations in Europe that still require proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test from travelers.

People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Austria Entry Requirements

Generally, people traveling from the EU/Schengen area can present proof of vaccination (booster mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (36 hours) test.

People from outside the EU or an area categorized as high-risk must present proof of vaccination. Children under 18 can present proof of recovery or a negative test. Children under 12 are exempt.

Belgium's rules vary depending on the COVID-19 risk associated with your departing country.

See more: Belgium Color Codes by Country

People need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Visit Croatia

People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (booster mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test. People also have to take a PCR on arrival and isolate while awaiting results.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Visit Cyprus

People must present proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course) or recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) to bypass additional restrictions. Unvaccinated travelers from the EU and approved countries including the UK and US must isolate for seven days upon arrival.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt from entry rules.

See more: Estonia Ministry of Foreign Affairs

People traveling from the EU, Schengen Zone or approved countries including Hong Kong, New Zealand and South Korea can present one of the following: proof of vaccination; recovery certificate (older than 28 days, but no less than three months old) or a PCR (48 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test. Children under the age of 12 are exempt from testing.

People traveling from outside the EU, including the UK and the US, must be vaccinated to enter Germany. Unvaccinated 6-11 year olds can enter with a vaccinated parent; unvaccinated accompanying over-12s can provide a negative PCR or antigen test.

See more: Government of Germany

People traveling from the EU, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and other approved countries need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Children under five are exempt from all entry requirements. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more: Greece Ministry of Tourism

There are no entry rules for those traveling from the EU and Schengen Zone countries. However, people coming from third countries such as the UK and the US must provide proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course) or recovery certificate (issued within the past six months).

Children born in 2007 or later are exempt if accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult.

See more:  Finland Border Guard

People must present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after a primary vaccine course) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

Children under 12 are exempt. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more:  French Ministry of Foreign Affairs  

Cheerful friends cycling and skateboarding on street in city

People need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory seven months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

Children under the age of six are exempt from testing. Boosters are not required for those under 18 to be considered fully vaccinated.

See more:  Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

People over the age of 12 need one of the following: proof of vaccination (second dose administered at least 14 days prior to travel); recovery certificate; or negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

See more: Discover Latvia

People need one of the following: proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past six months); or a negative PCR (48 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

Children under the age of 12 are exempt.

See more:  Visit Luxembourg

People must present proof of vaccination with a booster to travel to Malta. 

Children between the ages of five and 11 must present a negative PCR test (72 hours). Children under five are exempt.

See more:  Visit Malta  

Netherlands

There are no entry rules for people traveling from the EU/Schengen area or countries participating in the EU travel rules scheme. People from elsewhere, including the US and UK, must present proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course) or a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days but no earlier than 11 days).

Children under 12 traveling to the Netherlands from outside the EU/Schengen area must show a negative PCR (48 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

See more: Government of Netherlands

See more: Visit Portugal

People traveling to Slovakia must show proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course).

See more: Slovakia Information Centre

People traveling from the EU can show proof of vaccination (boosters mandatory nine months after primary vaccine course); a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days) or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (24 hours) test.

People traveling from outside the EU must show proof of vaccination or recovery only (unless traveling to Balearic Islands where proof of vaccination is mandatory).

Children under 12 are exempt from vaccination requirements. Unvaccinated 12 to 17-year-olds can present a negative PCR (72 hours) test.

See more: Spain Ministry of Health

Switzerland

People traveling to Switzerland must show proof of vaccination ( booster mandatory 270 days after primary vaccine course) or a recovery certificate (issued within the past 180 days). 

Children under 18 are exempt.

See more: Switzerland Travel Check

Most people need to present one of the following: proof of vaccination; a recovery certificate (issued within the past six months but no less than 28 days); or a negative PCR (72 hours) or antigen (48 hours) test.

Children under the age of 12 are exempting from testing.

People from high-risk countries are subject to stricter rules including quarantine if they're unvaccinated.

See more: Visit Turkey

You might also like: Europe’s top 10 scenic train journeys for 2022 20 best beaches in Europe

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  • Section 7 - Traveling Safely with Infants & Children
  • Section 7 - International Adoption

Vaccine Recommendations for Infants & Children

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Michelle Weinberg

Vaccinating children for travel requires careful evaluation. Whenever possible, children should complete routine childhood immunizations on a normal schedule. Travel at an earlier age, however, might require accelerated vaccine schedules. Not all travel-related vaccines are effective in infants, and some are specifically contraindicated.

See recommended childhood and adolescent immunization schedules . The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides a catch-up schedule for children and adolescents who start a vaccination schedule late or who are >1 month behind. Tables also describe the recommended minimum intervals between doses for children who need to be vaccinated on an accelerated schedule, which could be necessary before international travel.

Country-specific vaccination recommendations and requirements for departure and entry vary over time. For example, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into certain countries. Meningococcal vaccination is required for travelers entering Saudi Arabia for Umrah or the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued temporary vaccination recommendations for residents of and long-term visitors to countries with active circulation of wild or vaccine-derived poliovirus. Some countries might require coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine, testing, or both for entry. Check the CDC Travelers’ Health website for current requirements and recommendations.

Additional information about diseases and routine vaccination is available in the disease-specific chapters in Section 5. See tools for determining routine and catch-up childhood vaccination .

Modifying Immunization Schedules for Infants & Young Children Before International Travel

Several factors influence recommendations for the age at which a vaccine is administered, including age-specific risks for the disease and its complications, age-dependent ability to develop an adequate immune response to a vaccine, and potential interference with the immune response by passively transferred maternal antibodies.

Immunization schedules for infants and children in the United States do not provide guidance on modifications for people traveling internationally before the age when specific vaccines are routinely recommended. Age limits for vaccine administration are based on the risk for potential adverse events (e.g., yellow fever vaccine), lack of efficacy data or inadequate immune response (e.g., influenza vaccine, polysaccharide vaccines), maternal antibody interference and immaturity of the immune system (e.g., measles-mumps-rubella [MMR] vaccine), or lack of safety data.

To help parents decide when to travel with an infant or young child, advise them that the earliest opportunity to receive routinely recommended immunizations in the United States (except for doses of hepatitis B vaccine at birth and age 1 month) is when the baby is 6 weeks old. In general, live-virus vaccines (MMR, varicella, yellow fever) should be administered on the same day or spaced ≥28 days apart.

Routine Infant & Childhood Vaccines

Children should be vaccinated against diphtheria, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), hepatitis A and hepatitis B virus, human papillomavirus, influenza, measles, mumps, Neisseria meningitidis , pertussis, polio, rotavirus, rubella, Streptococcus pneumoniae , tetanus, and varicella. To complete a vaccine series before travel, doses can be administered at the minimum ages and dose intervals. Inform parents that infants and children who have not received all recommended vaccine doses might not be fully protected. Rotavirus vaccine is unique among the routine vaccines given to infants in the United States because it has maximum ages for both the first and last doses; specifically consider the timing of travel so that the infant will be able to receive the complete vaccine series, if possible.

Coronavirus Disease 2019

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, and CDC’s vaccination recommendations are updated regularly. See the most current recommendations for children and teens . COVID-19 vaccines available for use in the United States can be administered simultaneously with all other vaccines.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A infection is usually mild or asymptomatic in infants and children <5 years old. Infected children can, however, transmit the infection to older children and adults, age groups at greater risk for severe disease. Ensure vaccination for all children traveling to areas with an intermediate or high risk for hepatitis A (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 7, Hepatitis A ). Routine hepatitis A vaccination for children aged ≥12 months consists of 2 doses, separated by ≥6 months. Ideally, the first dose should be administered ≥2 weeks before travel. When protection against hepatitis A is recommended, infants aged 6–11 months should receive 1 dose of hepatitis A vaccine before travel outside the United States.

Hepatitis A vaccine is considered safe and immunogenic in infants; doses administered before 12 months of age, however, can result in a suboptimal immune response, particularly in infants with passively acquired maternal antibody. Therefore, doses administered to infants <12 months old are not considered to provide long-term protection; initiate the 2-dose hepatitis A vaccine series at age 12 months according to the routine immunization schedule.

Hepatitis A Immune Globulin

When protection against hepatitis A is recommended, infants <6 months old should receive immune globulin (IG) before travel. One dose of 0.1 mL/kg intramuscularly provides protection for ≤1 month. Infants who do not receive vaccination who will be traveling for >1 month but ≤2 months should receive an IG dose of 0.2 mL/kg. If the traveler remains in a high-risk setting, IG (0.2 mL/kg) should be administered every 2 months until hepatitis A vaccine can be given at ≥6 months of age, if not contraindicated.

For optimal protection, children aged ≥1 year who are immunocompromised or who have chronic medical conditions, and who will be traveling to a high-risk area in <2 weeks, should receive the initial dose of hepatitis A vaccine and IG at separate anatomic injection sites.

Recommended Dosing Intervals for Coadministration of Live-Virus Vaccines

Hepatitis A IG is an antibody-containing product that does not interfere with the immune response to yellow fever vaccine but can inhibit the response to other injected live-virus vaccines (e.g., MMR, varicella) for up to 6 months after administration (see Sec. 2, Ch. 3, Vaccination & Immunoprophylaxis—General Principles ).

MMR vaccine is recommended for all infants aged 6–11 months traveling internationally. Because measles in infancy is a more severe disease than hepatitis A, administer hepatitis A vaccine and MMR vaccine simultaneously to infants aged 6–11 months to provide protection against hepatitis A and measles, but do not give hepatitis A IG.

If the interval between MMR or varicella vaccine administration and subsequent administration of an antibody-containing product is <14 days, repeat vaccination after the recommended interval unless serologic testing indicates a protective antibody response. For information about dosing intervals, see The Timing and Spacing of Immunobiologics, General Best Practice Guidelines for Immunization: Best Practices Guidance of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, Table 3-4 ) and Table 3-5 .

Hepatitis B

For certain age groups, hepatitis B vaccine can be administered with an accelerated schedule of 4 doses of vaccine given at 0, 1, 2, and 12 months; the last dose can be given after the child returns from travel (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 8, Hepatitis B , for details).

Influenza viruses circulate predominantly in the winter months in temperate regions (typically November–April in the Northern Hemisphere and April–September in the Southern Hemisphere) but can occur year-round in tropical climates (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 12, Influenza ). Because influenza viruses can circulate any time of the year, travelers aged ≥6 months who were not vaccinated during the influenza season in their country of residence should be vaccinated ≥2 weeks before departure if vaccine is available.

Children aged 6 months–8 years who have never received influenza vaccine, or who have not previously received a lifetime total of ≥2 doses, should receive 2 doses separated by ≥4 weeks. See annually updated recommendations about seasonal influenza vaccination .

Measles-Mumps-Rubella or Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Varicella

Children traveling abroad need to be vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella at an age earlier than what is routinely recommended. Infants 6–11 months old should receive 1 MMR vaccine dose. Infants vaccinated before age 12 months must be revaccinated on or after their first birthday with 2 doses of MMR vaccine (separated by ≥28 days) or measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccine (separated ≥3 months). The minimum interval between any varicella-containing vaccine (MMRV or monovalent varicella) is 3 months.

MMRV vaccine is licensed for use in children aged 12 months–12 years and should not be given outside this age group. Recipients of a first dose of MMRV vaccine have a greater risk for febrile seizures compared with recipients of MMR and varicella vaccines administered concomitantly. Unless the caregiver expresses a preference for MMRV, CDC recommends administering separate MMR and varicella vaccine for the first dose of MMR and varicella vaccination for children 12–47 months.

Meningococcal

Quadrivalent conjugate.

Children aged 2 months–18 years who travel to or reside in areas of sub-Saharan Africa known as the meningitis belt during the dry season (December–June) should receive quadrivalent meningococcal conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 13, Meningococcal Disease ). In addition, travelers are required to have meningococcal vaccination to enter Saudi Arabia when traveling to Mecca for Umrah or the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The CDC Travelers’ Health website provides annual health requirements and recommendations for US travelers going to Mecca for Umrah or Hajj (also see Sec. 10, Part 1, Ch. 2, Saudi Arabia: Hajj & Umrah Pilgrimages ).

The schedule for primary series meningococcal vaccine and booster doses varies depending on the vaccine administered.

Meningococcal B

Unless an outbreak of serogroup B disease has been reported, vaccination with a serogroup B meningococcal (MenB) vaccine is not routinely recommended for travel to the meningitis belt or other regions of the world. Although MenB vaccine is not licensed in the United States for children <10 years of age, some European countries recently introduced MenB vaccine as a routine immunization for infants. Some countries might have other meningococcal vaccines available. Consider meningococcal vaccination for infants residing in these countries according to the routine infant immunization recommendations of that country.

Polio vaccine is recommended for travelers going to countries with evidence of wild poliovirus (WPV) or vaccine-derived poliovirus circulating during the last 12 months, and for travelers with a high risk for exposure to someone with imported WPV infection when traveling to some countries that border areas with WPV circulation. Refer to the CDC Travelers’ Health website destination pages for current polio vaccine recommendations.

Ensure that travelers complete the recommended age-appropriate polio vaccine series and receive a single lifetime booster dose, if necessary. Infants and children should receive an accelerated schedule to complete the routine series. See Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 17, Poliomyelitis , and CDC’s Immunization Schedules website for information about accelerated schedules.

People ≥18 years of age traveling to areas where polio vaccine is recommended and who have received a routine series with either inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) or live oral polio vaccine in childhood should receive a single lifetime booster dose of IPV before departure. Available data do not indicate the need for more than a single lifetime booster dose with IPV. Requirements for long-term travelers might apply, however, when departing from certain countries.

Long-Term Travelers to Countries With Poliovirus Transmission

In May 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the international spread of polio to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern under the authority of the International Health Regulations (2005). To prevent further spread of disease, WHO issued temporary polio vaccine recommendations for long-term travelers (staying >4 weeks) and residents departing from countries with WPV transmission (“exporting WPV” or “infected with WPV”) or with circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses types 1 or 3.

Long-term travelers and residents could be required to show proof of polio vaccination when departing from these countries for any destination. All polio vaccination administration should be documented on an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). See ordering information and instructions on how to fill out the ICVP . The polio vaccine must be received 4 weeks–12 months before the date of departure from the polio-infected country.

Country requirements can change, so clinicians should check for updates on the CDC Travelers’ Health website.

Travel Vaccines for Infants & Children

Dengue can cause mild to severe illness (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 4, Dengue ). Although many people have asymptomatic infections, for some children dengue can be life-threatening. Travelers should adhere to mosquito protection measures during travel to dengue-endemic areas (see Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods ).

In June 2021, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended the use of a live attenuated dengue virus vaccine, Dengvaxia (Sanofi Pasteur), to prevent disease in children aged 9–16 years. Children eligible to receive the vaccine include those with laboratory-confirmed previous dengue virus infection who live in areas of the United States, including the US territories of American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands; and freely associated states, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. Dengvaxia is not approved for use in US travelers who are visiting but who do not live in areas where dengue is endemic.

Only people who test positive for previous dengue infection or who have other laboratory-confirmed evidence of a previous dengue infection are eligible for vaccination with Dengvaxia. In people without previous dengue infection, Dengvaxia can increase the risk for severe illness and hospitalization if the person gets infected after vaccination. Serodiagnostic tests recommended by health authorities with acceptable performance (≥75% sensitivity, ≥98% specificity) are available to test for evidence of previous dengue infection.

The vaccine is a series of 3 doses, administered 6 months apart at month 0, 6, and 12 months.

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and is endemic throughout most of Asia and parts of the western Pacific. JE risk can be seasonal in temperate climates and year-round in more tropical climates. Risk to short-term travelers and those who confine their travel to urban centers is considered low. JE vaccine is recommended for travelers who plan to spend ≥1 month in endemic areas during JE virus transmission season. Consider JE vaccine for short-term (<1 month) travelers whose itinerary or activities could increase their risk for JE virus exposure. The decision to vaccinate a child should follow the more detailed recommendations found in Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 13, Japanese Encephalitis .

An inactivated Vero cell culture–derived JE vaccine (IXIARO) was licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2009 for use in the United States for travelers aged ≥17 years. In 2013, the recommendations were expanded, and the vaccine was licensed for use in children ≥2 months of age. For children aged 2 months–17 years, the primary series consists of 2 intramuscular doses administered 28 days apart. For travelers who received their primary JE vaccine series ≥1 year prior to potential JE virus exposure, ACIP recommends providing a booster dose before departure. See information on age-appropriate dosing .

Rabies virus causes an acute viral encephalitis that is virtually 100% fatal. Traveling children can be at increased risk for rabies exposure, mainly from dogs that roam the streets in low- and middle- income countries. Bat bites carry a potential risk for rabies throughout the world. In addition to taking measures to avoid animal bites and scratches (see Sec. 4, Ch. 7, Zoonotic Exposures: Bites, Stings, Scratches & Other Hazards ), preexposure and postexposure rabies prophylaxis is part of a broader approach to preventing this disease. Follow the recommendations in Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 18, Rabies , when making decisions about whether to provide rabies preexposure prophylaxis for children.

Preexposure Prophylaxis

In June 2021, to align with the recently revised adult schedule, ACIP adjusted the number of recommended doses of rabies preexposure prophylaxis in children downward, from 3 to 2. For immunocompetent children <18 years old, administer the first dose of vaccine on day 0 and a second dose 7 days later (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 19, . . . perspectives: Rabies Immunization ).

The advantages of the revised schedule are that it is both less expensive and easier to complete prior to travel. There are, however, no data on the duration of protection afforded by this 2-dose series. Because of this uncertainty, travelers with a sustained risk for rabies exposure should either have a titer drawn or receive a third dose of vaccine within 3 years of the initial series. Travelers unlikely to visit an at-risk destination after 3 years require no further titers or boosters unless they have a subsequent exposure.

Postexposure Prophylaxis

Children who have not received preexposure immunization and who might have been exposed to rabies require a weight-based dose of human rabies immune globulin (RIG) and a series of 4 rabies vaccine doses on days 0, 3, 7, and 14. Decisions about any changes in how to manage postexposure prophylaxis, schedule deviations for pre- or postexposure prophylaxis, and postexposure prophylaxis initiated abroad are expected from the ACIP.

Tick-Borne Encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral disease transmitted by Ixodes ticks in parts of Asia and Europe. Rare in US travelers, TBE is usually asymptomatic but can appear as a biphasic illness with central nervous system involvement (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 23, Tick-Borne Encephalitis ). Although TBE infection tends to be less severe in children, residual symptoms and neurologic deficits have been described.

Most infections result from the bite of infected tick, typically acquired when a person is bicycling, camping, hiking, or participating in other outdoor activities in brushy or forested areas. TBE also can be acquired by ingesting unpasteurized dairy products from infected animals, or, rarely, from direct person-to-person spread via blood transfusion, solid organ transplantation, or breastfeeding.

In August 2021, the FDA approved a TBE vaccine for people aged ≥1 year ; in February 2022, ACIP approved recommendations for vaccine use among people traveling or moving to a TBE-endemic area who will have extensive tick exposure based on planned outdoor activities and itinerary. Primary vaccination consists of 3 doses; the schedule varies by age. For children 1–15 years old, give the second dose 1–3 months after the first dose; for children aged ≥16 years, give the second dose 14 days–3 months after the first dose. All children should receive the third dose 5–12 months after receiving their second dose of the vaccine. A booster (fourth) dose can be given ≥3 years after completion of the primary immunization series if ongoing exposure or reexposure is expected.

Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi (see Sec. 5, Part 1, Ch. 24, Typhoid & Paratyphoid Fever ). Travelers can avoid typhoid fever by following safe food and water precautions and frequently washing hands. Typhoid vaccine is recommended for travelers going to areas with a recognized risk for Salmonella Typhi exposure.

Two typhoid vaccines are licensed for use in the United States: Vi capsular polysaccharide vaccine (ViCPS) administered intramuscularly, and oral live attenuated vaccine (Ty21a). Both vaccines induce a protective response in 50%–80% of recipients. The ViCPS vaccine can be administered to children aged ≥2 years, who should receive a booster dose 2 years later if continued protection is needed. The Ty21a vaccine consists of a series of 4 capsules (1 taken orally every other day), which can be administered to children aged ≥6 years. Do not open capsules for administration; capsules must be swallowed whole. All 4 doses should be taken ≥1 week before potential exposure. A booster series for Ty21a should be taken every 5 years, if indicated.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes, is endemic to certain areas of Africa and South America (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 26, Yellow Fever ). Proof of vaccination against yellow fever is required for entry into some countries (see Sec. 2, Ch. 5, Yellow Fever Vaccine & Malaria Prevention Information, by Country ). Infants and children ≥9 months old and without contraindications should be vaccinated before traveling to countries where yellow fever is endemic.

Infants aged <9 months are at greater risk for developing encephalitis from yellow fever vaccine, which is a live-virus vaccine. Studies conducted during the early 1950s identified 4 cases of encephalitis out of 1,000 children aged <6 months who received yellow fever vaccine. An additional 10 cases of encephalitis associated with yellow fever vaccine administered to infants aged <4 months were reported worldwide during the 1950s.

Advise travelers with infants aged <9 months against traveling to areas where yellow fever is endemic. ACIP advises against administering yellow fever vaccine to infants aged <6 months. Infants aged 6–8 months should be vaccinated only if they must travel to areas of ongoing epidemic yellow fever, and if a high level of protection against mosquito bites is not possible. Clinicians considering vaccinating infants aged 6–8 months can consult their respective state health departments or CDC toll-free at 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636).

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Michelle S. Weinberg

Bibliography

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Japanese encephalitis vaccine: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2019;68(2):1–33.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meningococcal vaccination: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, 2020. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2020;69(9):1–41.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prevention of Hepatitis A virus infection in the United States: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2020;69(5):1–38.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Use of a Modified Preexposure Prophylaxis Vaccination Schedule to Prevent Human Rabies: Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices—United States, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2022;71:619–27.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yellow fever vaccine: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). MMWR Recomm Rep. 2015;64(23):647–50.

Global Polio Eradication Initiative. Public health emergency status: IHR public health emergency of international concern. Temporary recommendations to reduce international spread of poliovirus. Geneva: Global Polio Eradication Initiative; 2021. Available from: https://polioeradication.org/polio-today/polio-now/public-health-emergency-status .

Jackson BR, Iqbal S, Mahon B; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Updated recommendations for the use of typhoid vaccine—Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2015. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2015;64(11):305–8.

Kimberlin DW, Barnett E, Lynfield R, Sawyer MH, editors. Red Book 2021–2024. Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases, 32nd edition. Elk Grove Village (IL): American Academy of Pediatrics; 2021.

Paz-Bailey G, Adams L, Wong JM, Poehling KA, Chen WH, McNally V, et al. Dengue vaccine: recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, United States, 2021. MMWR Recomm Rep. 2021;70(6);1–16.

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Do children need to apply for TSA PreCheck®?

It depends on their age and whether they are traveling with a parent or guardian who has enrolled in TSA PreCheck:

  • Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction.
  • Children 13-17 may join enrolled adults when traveling on the same reservation and if the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the child’s boarding pass.
  • Any child traveling alone routinely may want to enroll in the program.

Please note, adults using gate passes to accompany children traveling alone will be directed to standard screening as gate passes are excluded from TSA PreCheck benefits. This applies even if the gate pass holder has enrolled in TSA PreCheck. The adult will not be permitted to join the child in the TSA PreCheck lane.

under 18 travel requirements

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Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

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Get a passport for a minor under 18

Most children must appear in person at a passport acceptance facility to apply for a passport. The cost will vary depending on the child's age.

Children under 16

All children under 16 must appear in person to apply. A parent (preferably both) must be present and must sign the passport application.

Follow the step-by-step process for children under 16  from the State Department to ensure you have the proper forms and documents. One step will help you determine the passport fee. 

You cannot renew your child's passport. If your child is under 16 and their passport has expired or will expire soon, you must submit a new application in person.

Children ages 16-17

Children ages 16-17 can apply for passports alone if they have their identification documents. A parent will need to either:

  • Provide a signed statement saying they are aware the child is seeking a passport or
  • Attend the passport appointment with them

Follow the step-by-step process from the State Department  to ensure you have the proper forms. One step will help you determine the passport fee.

Children ages 16-17 cannot renew their passport if it was issued before they turned 16. Instead, they would need to submit an application in person for a new passport.

Children in custody disputes

If you are concerned your child may be taken abroad by the other parent without your knowledge, you can enroll them in the  Children’s Passport Issuance Alert Program (CPIAP) .

If you need your child’s passport quickly

Depending on when and why your child is traveling, you may need to  use the expedited process . The time it takes varies throughout the year, and there may be additional fees.  Use the fee calculator or chart .

If you and your child are outside the U.S.

Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate  near you to  request a passport while outside the U.S.  Expedited service is not available.

Check the status of your child's passport application

Follow the steps from the Department of State to check the status of your child's passport application or renewal online .

Be aware of passport expiration rules for your destination

Some countries and airlines will not allow a U.S. passport holder to enter if their passport expires in less than 6 months. 

Check your destination country's U.S. passport expiration rules on the  Department of State's country information page .

  • On the left, search for the country name in the "learn about your destination" box.
  • On that country's page, look for "passport validity."

LAST UPDATED: December 18, 2023

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Children travelling alone

If your child is about to embark on their first adventure without you, here’s everything you need to know to help make sure it goes smoothly. 

How old does a child have to be to fly alone?

We allow children aged 14 or older to travel alone with us on domestic or international British Airways flights. 

Children under 14 years old cannot travel alone with us. They must be accompanied by someone aged 16 or over on the same or a linked booking to travel with us. 

Our partner airline SUN-AIR of Scandinavia follow different guidelines. Please see below for more information.

Booking flights for children under the age of 16

A child aged 14 or 15 years old travelling alone will be booked to travel as an adult. To book their ticket, please get in touch via our  Contact Us  page as you’re unable to book this online. 

The young traveller will be making their own way through departure and arrival airports and boarding their flight(s) without assistance or a chaperone. We’re unable to accept parental responsibility for the young person. 

Our partner airlines may have different regulations, age limits and charges, so please check with them directly.

What your child needs to travel alone

All children aged 14 or 15 travelling alone must carry with them:

  • A  British Airways consent form  (pdf, 124kb, English only), completed and signed by a parent/guardian. 
  • A copy of photographic identification of the parent/guardian who completed the form showing their signature, such as passport or driving licence. 
  • Any required travel documentation, such as valid passport(s), visas and proof of return travel.  Check what they need for their destination .

These three documents must always remain in the child’s possession while travelling. 

We also advise your child carries with them:

  • Any required medication and/or health certificates.
  • Method of payment for any expenses.
  • A way to communicate with their parent or guardian, as well as the person they are meeting at their destination. Please ensure all phones and devices are fully charged, with sufficient credit and roaming activated.

At the airport

You can accompany your young traveller up to the security gate. Anyone not flying with us is unable to go past this point, because we cannot offer gate passes at any of our airports. Airport colleagues will be able to tell you the latest time your child can stay with you before they need to go through security and onto their departure gate. 

We recommended that you wait until their flight takes off before leaving the terminal.

It can help to look at the airport terminal maps with your child before arriving at the airport so they’re familiar with their journey. Some airports do offer paid assistance to help customers to their boarding gate. Please visit the airport’s website for more information. 

Children travelling alone on SUN-AIR flights

SUN-AIR, our partner airline, allows young children between the ages of five and 11 years to travel without a parent or legal guardian provided you contact the airline in advance. Children over the age of 12 can travel unaccompanied on SUN-AIR operated flights, although young flyers between 12-16 years can use the SUN-AIR Unaccompanied Minor service on request.

You’ll need to book and pay for the SUN-AIR Unaccompanied Minor service in advance. You can’t book this service online, so please contact SUN-AIR for more information and to make your booking.

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  1. Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint

    Adult passengers 18 and older must show valid identification at the airport checkpoint in order to travel. Driver's licenses or other state photo identity cards issued by Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) Beginning May 7, 2025, if you plan to use your state-issued ID or license to fly within the U.S., make sure it is REAL ID ...

  2. What ID and Documents Does My Child Need To Fly? [2024]

    If you are taking a domestic flight, you will need to show your driver's license or another form of government ID with your photo on it. However, for children under the age of 18, that is a different story. Depending on where they are traveling to, and what age they are, they might not need an ID at all. Since there is a lot of information ...

  3. Frequently Asked Questions: Guidance for Travelers to Enter the U.S

    See CDC guidance for more details regarding air travel requirements. Below is more information about what to know before you go, and answers to Frequently Asked Questions about cross-border travel. ... Children under 18 years of age are excepted from the vaccination requirement at land and ferry POEs. Q: Which vaccines/combination of vaccines ...

  4. Do minors need identification to travel?

    Typically, minors under the age of 18 do not have to present identification for domestic U.S. travel. Airlines will accept identification from the responsible adult on behalf of the minor (s). For international travel, minors under the age of 18 must present the same travel documents as the adult. Please visit the Transportation Security ...

  5. Traveling with Children

    Traveling with Children. All passengers are required to undergo screening. However, TSA has developed modified screening procedures for children who appear to be 12 years old and younger. TSA officers will consult parents or the traveling guardian about the child's screening. TSA standard screening procedures apply for children 13 years and ...

  6. Everything you need to know about TSA requirements for minors

    For domestic flights, children under 18 typically do not need personal identification. The ID of the accompanying responsible adult will suffice. (Note: The new rules on REAL ID-complaint cards that go into effect in May 2025 only apply to travelers age 18 and older.) On some airlines, kids ages 2-11 receive a discounted fare and/or infants ...

  7. Unaccompanied minors − Travel information − American Airlines

    For safety, we require children age 5 - 14 traveling alone to use our unaccompanied minor service. This service is optional for children age 15 - 17, but if requested, then the fee applies. The unaccompanied minor fee is $150* each way, plus applicable taxes †, in addition to the ticket price. This fee covers additional siblings on the ...

  8. Unvaccinated US visitors under 18 will not need to quarantine, per CDC

    Unvaccinated children visiting the United States will not need to quarantine upon arrival under the country's new travel rules, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Saturday. The ...

  9. Fact Sheet: Biden Administration Releases Additional Detail for

    The updated travel guidelines also include new protocols around testing. ... Requirements for Children: Children under 18 are excepted from the vaccination requirement for foreign national ...

  10. Do Children Need ID to Fly? (Domestic & International) [2022]

    Domestic travel. Most airlines state that children under the age of 18 do not need an ID with them when flying with adults (people 18 and above). But when kids under 18 are flying alone, it gets a little complicated. First, they may have to fly as an unaccompanied minor if they fall within that age window.

  11. TSA tips on traveling with small children through a security checkpoint

    Children under age 18 do not need to present ID at the travel document checking podium. Traveling with liquid formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage ...

  12. U.S. Travel Document Requirements

    U.S. passport card. Driver's license or state ID that meets REAL ID standards. U.S. Military ID. Permanent Resident Card. Border Crossing Card. DHS-designated enhanced driver's license. A Native American Tribal Photo ID. An airline or airport-issued ID (if issued under a TSA-approved security plan)

  13. International travel documents for children

    Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent. Children (under age 16) of U.S. citizens arriving by land or sea from Canada or Mexico may present their original or a copy of their birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad.

  14. Young Travelers Flying Alone

    We consider children ages 12 through 17 traveling alone to be Young Travelers (YTs), not Unaccompanied Minors (UMs). Accordingly, our UM procedures do not apply to travelers ages 12 through 17. A Young Traveler must have the maturity and capability to travel alone, including but not limited to checking in, passing through the security ...

  15. Unaccompanied Minor Program

    Unaccompanied Minor Program Fees & Rules. The Unaccompanied Minor Program requires a fee of $150 USD/CAD/EUR each way, with CAD and EUR used when departing Canada or Europe. This fee applies to travel within the United States and International on both nonstop and connecting flights, in addition to the ticketed adult fare.

  16. Traveling with children − Travel information − American Airlines

    You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18. Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate. Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed. Nursing mothers. Families traveling. Children (2 years or older) Infants (under 2 years)

  17. Unaccompanied minors

    If your kids are under five, they don't qualify for this service and must fly with you or another adult who is at least 18. If your kids are 15-17, they can travel alone without using this service, but you can use it if you want to. There is a fee for our unaccompanied minor service. The fee is different depending on how many kids are flying ...

  18. Flying with Kids & Family Boarding

    Family boarding. We allow families with children less than two years old to board with our pre-boarding group. A gate agent will announce when it's time for you to get on the plane. Families with children under 12 can book Economy and Basic Economy seats next to each other for free. Sometimes, seat assignments change because of last minute ...

  19. TSA PreCheck Is Now Free for Teenagers Traveling With Their Parents

    May 23, 2023. UnitoneVector / Getty Images. On Monday, officials announced a new TSA PreCheck policy that will ease the airport process for families with older kids: All children under the age of ...

  20. International Child-Travel Regulations

    Requirements for passengers under the age of 18: ... Judicial authorization will be required for travel of Brazilian citizens under 18 if accompanied by an adult that is not a Brazilian citizen and resides abroad, provided (1) such adult is not the parent/legal guardian of the minor or (2) the minor, though born in Brazil, does not have ...

  21. What identification or documents do I need in order to travel?

    Note: TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. For travel outside the United States All U.S. citizens and nonimmigrant aliens from Canada, Bermuda, and Mexico departing from or entering the United States from within the Western Hemisphere traveling by air are required to present ...

  22. Latest Europe travel rules for children under 18

    People from outside the EU or an area categorized as high-risk must present proof of vaccination. Children under 18 can present proof of recovery or a negative test. Children under 12 are exempt. Belgium's rules vary depending on the COVID-19 risk associated with your departing country.

  23. Vaccine Recommendations for Infants & Children

    Country-specific vaccination recommendations and requirements for departure and entry vary over time. ... Children aged 2 months-18 years who travel to or reside in areas of sub-Saharan Africa known as the ... (WHO) declared the international spread of polio to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern under the authority of the ...

  24. Do children need to apply for TSA PreCheck®?

    Children 12 and under may accompany an enrolled parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction. Children 13-17 may join enrolled adults when traveling on the same reservation and if the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the child's boarding pass. Any child traveling alone routinely may want to enroll in the program.

  25. Get a passport for a minor under 18

    Follow the step-by-step process for children under 16 from the State Department to ensure you have the proper forms and documents. One step will help you determine the passport fee. You cannot renew your child's passport. If your child is under 16 and their passport has expired or will expire soon, you must submit a new application in person.

  26. Children travelling alone

    They must be accompanied by someone aged 16 or over on the same or a linked booking to travel with us. Our partner airline SUN-AIR of Scandinavia follow different guidelines. Please see below for more information. Booking flights for children under the age of 16. A child aged 14 or 15 years old travelling alone will be booked to travel as an adult.