What ID is required for flights within Canada?
In Canada, all passengers on domestic flights in Canada are expected to carry valid identification (ID) to verify their identity before boarding. Nonetheless, a passport is not required for domestic flights, in contrast to international flights. Rather, the government of Canada recognizes several types of government-issued identification that satisfy certain particular requirements. These needs should be understood in order to ensure a smooth airport experience
Accepted ID for Domestic Flights
Transport Canada and the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) stipulate that every air passenger 18 years or above will be required to carry one of the following:
1. One Piece of Government-Issued Photo ID
The ID must:
- Include your full name
- Include your date of birth
- Include your photograph
Examples include:
- Canadian driver’s license
- Canadian passport (optional for domestic)
- Provincial or territorial health card (with photo, where applicable)
- Permanent Resident card
- Provincial or territorial government photo ID card
- Secure Certificate of Indian Status
2. Two Pieces of Non-Photo Government-Issued ID
In the event that you lack any valid piece of photo ID you may provide two documents issued by a government body, with both containing your full name and at least one containing your date of birth
Examples:
- Birth certificate
- Social Insurance Number (SIN) card
- Citizenship certificate
- Health card without photo (paired with another acceptable ID)
If Your Identification Is Lost or Stolen
In the event that your government-issued identification is lost or stolen you can potentially still travel on the basis of a temporary replacement or supporting document:
- Employee ID card with photo
- Transit pass with photo
- Government-issued temporary replacement or official notice of lost ID
Always check with your airline in advance, as acceptance of these substitutes may vary.
For Minors (Under 18 Years Old)
Children under 18 generally have more flexible ID requirements when traveling with parents or guardians, but unaccompanied minors may face stricter airline-specific requirements. Although not all domestic flights do not require ID, the airlines are allowed to ask for documentation as evidence of age or guardianship. It's best to bring:
- A birth certificate
- A school-issued ID
- A provincial health card
Always check with your airline for any additional policies regarding minors traveling alone.
Digital ID and Boarding Passes
In a small number of Canadian airports, a pilot program is underway with digital IDs so that passengers can check-in at the airport with the help of a digital ID application or facial recognition. Nonetheless, such programs are not widespread but passengers should always have a physical ID as backup.
Important Reminders
- Your ID has to match the same name as used on your boarding pass.
- ID that has expired (even recently) is not accepted.
- Foreign nationals traveling within Canada are required to carry appropriate travel documentation including a passport or immigration documents.
Conclusion
Although you do not require a passport to travel domestically in Canada, you must carry a government-issued photo ID is necessary. It is advisable to check with your airline and CATSA the most current requirements before travelling to prevent delays at the airport.
