All passengers 18 years of age and older are required to show either a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card, a state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or a TSA-acceptable form of identification at airport security checkpoints in order to fly domestically. View a list of acceptable forms of identification on TSA's website.
At SJC passengers now have a quicker, more convenient way to verify their identity at TSA checkpoints with Apple’s Digital ID. Eligible passengers can store their U.S. passport information securely in Apple Wallet – no REAL ID-compliant license required – and confirm their identity using Face ID or Touch ID. Simply hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near a TSA reader for seamless verification. Note: a physical passport is still required for international travel.
TSA currently accepts IDs that are expired up to two years, but allow extra time for additional security screening. You can see a full list of acceptable IDs on the TSA website.
TSA’s job is to make sure you are who you say you are. In the event you arrive at the airport without valid identification because it is lost or at home, you may still be allowed to fly (domestic travel only). The TSA officer may ask you to complete a form to include your name and current address and may ask additional questions to confirm your identity. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint. You may be subject to additional screening. For more instructions and information about valid forms of identification, visit the TSA website.
The quick answer is "no," at least if you leave the country. An expired passport is not accepted for overseas travel. If your passport has expired or will expire within the next six months, you must renew it. You should contact your nearest embassy to start the renewal process.
Escorts for unaccompanied minors may be arranged with your airline, fees may apply. If you wish to escort your minor child to the gate only, a gate pass may be issued by the airline. To obtain a gate pass, proceed to the airline ticket counter and explain to the ticket agent you are escorting your minor child to the gate. If granted, be prepared to have a valid ID and to comply with all security processes and restrictions.
Note: gate passes cannot be authorized in advance and are issued at the discretion of the airline ticket agent.
Every airline and airport may have different rules, so it's always best to phone the airline first to obtain any special instructions. Visit our Airlines page for a list of the airline’s hours and phone numbers.
For Military: Gate passes are usually issued at the airline ticket/check-in counter. You will need the passenger’s name, flight number and a government issued photo ID. If you are escorting a departing military service member, they should have their military orders available as well as government photo IDs for everyone over the age of 18. If you require assistance, let an airline employee know that you wish to obtain a gate pass and explain the circumstances. Be sure to allow plenty of time before flight departure and/or arrival to account for check-in and security screening.
Who will be considered for a gate pass?
• A parent with a child flying alone – known as unaccompanied minor (under 18)
• A companion for a passenger that has a disability (perhaps to push a wheelchair, etc.)
• A companion for a passenger with special needs (can’t understand signs and/or instructions or perhaps needs a sign language interpreter)
• A companion for a passenger who is elderly and may become confused or disoriented
• Family members of military service personnel who are reporting for duty or arriving home from active duty
Note: gate passes cannot be authorized in advance and are issued at the discretion of the airline ticket agent.
To sign up for TSA PreCheck, you must submit an online application and schedule an in-person appointment that includes a background check and fingerprinting at an enrollment center. Visit TSA's PreCheck website to submit an application and learn more. Note, TSA PreCheck approval may take up to 60 days and SJC does not have a TSA PreCheck enrollment center.
To sign up for CLEAR, you can either start the enrollment process online and finish at a CLEAR kiosk or you can complete the entire process at a CLEAR kiosk at SJC. Visit CLEAR's website to enroll and learn more.
CLEAR now offers in-person TSA PreCheck® enrollments and renewals at the Terminal B Security Checkpoint, available Sunday–Friday from 4:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 4:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. No appointment required.
Yes. CLEAR is available in both Terminal A and B security checkpoints.
CLEAR Terminal A Hours
Sunday - Friday: 4:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
Saturday: 4:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
CLEAR Terminal B Hours
Sunday - Friday: 4:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Saturday: 4:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
Visit TSA's website to learn more about what you can and cannot bring through security screening.
TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when travelling within the United States.
- Terminal A checkpoint opens at 4 a.m.
- Terminal B checkpoint opens at 4:15 a.m.
Standard closing time is 11 p.m., but TSA coordinates with the airlines to remain open when there are late departures.
The Real ID deadline was May 7, 2025. If you do not have a REAL ID, you may review a list of other forms of acceptable identification. Travelers should be aware that the security process for individuals who do not present acceptable IDs may result in additional screening and could create significant travel delays and the possibility of not being allowed into the security checkpoint. This includes TSA PreCheck® passengers.
View our step-by-step guide on how to get your Real ID.
