Do You Need a Passport for Domestic Flights in India (2025)

You do not need a passport to take a domestic flight within India. Indian airports accept many types of photo ID for boarding, as long as it is a valid government-issued document. Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, or driving licence are all accepted. These IDs are checked at the terminal gate by CISF staff before you are allowed to enter.

What matters is that your name on the ticket matches your ID, and the photo on your ID is clear. This rule applies to all airlines and all airports across India.

So, do you need a passport for domestic flights? No. But you must carry one accepted photo ID to fly. This guide explains which IDs are allowed, how airport checks work, and what to carry if travelling with children or elderly passengers.

This post covers all valid ID proofs, ID rules for children and senior travellers, and what steps to follow if you arrive at the airport without your ID.

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Why ID Is Required for Domestic Flights

Every passenger flying within India must show a valid photo ID to enter the airport. This is checked at the terminal gate by CISF security staff before you reach the check-in counter. Without ID, entry is not allowed.

Your name on the ticket should match the name on your ID. Even a small mismatch can lead to delay or denial at security. This check helps confirm the identity of each person boarding the flight.

The rule applies across all Indian airports and airlines. It stops misuse of tickets, blocks unauthorized entry, and keeps air travel secure for everyone. You do not need a passport, but carrying any government-approved ID is mandatory.

List of Valid ID Proofs for Domestic Flights in India

You can board any domestic flight in India with an original, government-approved photo ID. Airlines and airport security follow BCAS guidelines to accept the following documents:

Aadhaar card or mAadhaar app
Voter ID issued by the Election Commission
Driving licence with photo issued by RTO
PAN card with photo issued by the Income Tax Department
Indian passport (optional but accepted)
Central or state government employee ID
PSU ID card from recognised public sector units
Birth certificate issue by Local Authority
Bank passbook with photo, signed by a nationalised bank
Pension card or retirement document with photograph
Disability ID or medical certificate with photograph

Digital IDs shown through apps like DigiLocker or mAadhaar are accepted at most airports, as long as they carry a valid QR code. Plain photocopies or screenshots are not valid for entry. Always keep your ID in hand and ensure the photo and name are clear.

ID Proof Required for Kids and Infants on Domestic Flights

Every child flying within India must carry a valid ID. Age does not exempt them. Airport security checks all passengers, including infants.

Infants under 2 years: Carry the birth certificate or hospital record. This confirms the baby is eligible for infant travel.
Children aged 2 to 12: Bring any one of these—Aadhaar card, passport, school certificate, or original birth certificate.
If flying alone (5–12 years): Submit the UMNR form. Also carry the child’s ID and ID of the adult handing over and receiving the child.

No child can enter the terminal without an ID. It must be original or printed from a verified source like mAadhaar or DigiLocker.

Every airline follows the same rule. If ID is missing or unclear, the child may not be allowed to board.

ID Rules for Senior Citizens Travelling on Domestic Flights in India

Senior citizens do not need a passport to fly within India. Any valid government photo ID is accepted at airport entry and check-in. Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, passport, or driving licence are all allowed.

There are no separate ID rules for elderly passengers. The same security checks apply to all age groups. If a senior citizen fare was booked, the airline may ask for age proof at the counter. In that case, the ID must show the date of birth.

Most airlines accept Aadhaar or passport as proof of age. If the ID does not mention the birth date clearly, carry a second document that does. No extra ID is needed beyond this.

Do Foreign Nationals Need a Passport for Domestic Flights in India

Foreign nationals must carry their original passport to board any domestic flight in India. This is the only ID accepted at airport security for non-Indian travellers. The name on the ticket must match the name on the passport.

Indian IDs like Aadhaar, PAN card, or driving licence are not accepted for foreign nationals. Even if you have these documents, airport security will not allow entry without a passport.

OCI or PIO cardholders must carry their OCI or PIO document along with the passport. These cards show residency status but are not valid as photo ID for airport checks.

If the flight is part of an international journey within India, like a connection from Delhi to Mumbai, the passport must still be shown at every step. Never place it in checked luggage.

Without a valid passport, foreign nationals will not be allowed to enter the terminal or board the flight.

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Tips for Smooth Airport Boarding Without a Passport

You can board any domestic flight in India without a passport, but your ID must be correct and easy to verify. Airport security checks both your ID and ticket at the terminal gate. If there is even a small mismatch or unclear document, you may be stopped.

Use original government photo ID only
Name on ID must match the ticket
Keep both in your hand, not in bags
Show digital ID only from mAadhaar or DigiLocker
Never use a screenshot or photocopy
Carry one extra ID if possible
Do not use old, faded, or torn cards
Reach early if using less common documents

If your ID is valid and matches your booking, there is no issue. Security checks are strict but simple. Show, match, walk in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aadhaar card enough for domestic flights in India?

Yes, Aadhaar is accepted. The original card or mAadhaar app version both work at security. Just make sure the photo is visible and the name matches your ticket.

Can I fly on a domestic flight in India without any ID proof?

No. Without ID, you will not be allowed past the gate. You need at least one valid photo ID to enter the airport and board. If lost, there is no backup unless you bring a gazetted officer certificate which is hard to arrange on the spot.

Do children or infants need ID proof for domestic flights in India?

Yes. Infants need a birth certificate or hospital slip. Children aged 2 and above must carry Aadhaar, passport, birth certificate, or school certificate. If flying alone, more documents apply.

Do foreign nationals need a passport for domestic flights in India?

Yes. Foreigners must carry their original passport. No Indian document like Aadhaar or PAN is accepted. OCI or PIO cards can support residency proof but do not replace passport for airport ID checks.

Can I use a digital ID on my phone at airport security in India?

Yes. DigiLocker and mAadhaar are accepted if they show the verified digital document, not a screenshot. Make sure your phone is charged, and always carry a physical ID as backup.

Is a PAN card accepted as valid ID at Indian airports?

Yes, if it is original and has a clear photo. PAN cards are listed under accepted IDs even though they are mainly for tax use. Damaged cards may be rejected.

What if I forget to carry my ID at the airport for a domestic flight?

You will not be allowed to enter. Unless you get a gazetted officer attested certificate which is very hard to arrange fast, you will need to go back for your ID or rebook your flight.

Does the name on my flight ticket have to match my ID exactly?

Yes, the name must be close enough to verify. Small differences are fine, like missing middle names. But a totally different name or nickname will block your entry. Always use your full legal name while booking.

Do I need a printed copy of my ticket for a domestic flight in India?

Not needed. You can show the e-ticket or boarding pass on your phone. Just make sure it clearly shows your name and flight info. Carry a printout only if your battery may die or app fails.

Is a photocopy of my ID acceptable for a domestic flight security check?

No. Security does not accept photocopies or printouts. Use the original ID or a digital version through DigiLocker or mAadhaar. Screenshots are also not allowed.

Do You Need a Passport for Domestic Flights in India?