Documents Required for U.S. Citizens to Travel *

It is the traveler's sole responsibility to determine what documents are required for travel to his or her specific destination and to make certain to have the documents available to present to the appropriate authorities while traveling.

Importance of Complete and Correct Names

It is vital that you provide your travel arranger with complete and correctly spelled names. Nicknames, maiden names, and incomplete names on air tickets and other travel documents that do not exactly match the name on official identification may result in denied boarding. At the earliest opportunity, please check any written materials you receive from your travel arranger to make certain the name information is correct. Notify your travel arranger immediately if there is a discrepancy.

Passenger I.D. Requirements for travel within the 50 U.S. States

All passengers over the age of 18 years must present identification in order to board an airline flight. Passengers unable to present required identification will be denied boarding. Acceptable positive proof of identification includes a current photo I.D. issued by a local, state, or federal government entity (i.e. photo drivers license, official state I.D. card, military I.D. card). If you have any questions, please contact the airline that will be providing transportation.

Required for Travel Outside the United States

All passengers regardless of age will be required to provide proof of citizenship. The best proof of citizenship is a valid passport. Many countries require a valid passport. Other countries may allow entry with a certified government issued copy of a birth certificate combined with a government issued photo I.D. Note: A hospital birth certificate or other certificate that does not carry an official government seal is not acceptable.
In addition to proof of citizenship, some countries may also require a visa be obtained in advance of travel specifically authorizing entry to their country. Information on visas required of U.S. citizens may be obtained from the U.S. State Department. The consulate or embassy of the destination country is a best source for information; contact information for consulates and embassies is also available at the above web link.
 
Minor Children - Special Requirements

Children under the age of 18 are considered to be minors by most countries. Children traveling internationally must carry proof of citizenship. It is always a good practice to carry the childs birth certificate to provide proof of parentage as well as passport. In some instances this is mandatory. (Example: Child traveling with both parents but whose last name does not match that of both parents, as might be the case if a mother had retained her maiden name.)
In addition, minor children who are not traveling with both parents must carry notarized permission letters from the absent parent(s). Depending on circumstances, the affidavits required may include an affidavit of other parental consent, parental consent for unaccompanied minor, or affidavit of sole custody. Mexico is an example of a country requiring these notarized permission letters. Children without these letters may be denied boarding.
 
* Non U.S. citizens must check with the embassy or consulate of the destination country to determine what documents will be required.