ID Required for Domestic Flights in India
Carry one government-issued photo ID. Digital IDs in DigiLocker or mAadhaar are accepted.
Carry one original, government-issued photo ID for every passenger entering an Indian airport. CISF accepts Passport, Aadhaar, PAN, Driving Licence, Voter ID, Service IDs, and for students, a school or college card with a photo.
Key highlights
- Passport (Indian or foreign) with valid visa if required.
- Aadhaar card, PVC, or DigiLocker version.
- PAN, Driving Licence, Voter ID, Service ID (PSU, Defence).
Think of the terminal entrance as immigration-lite. Officers check identity before you ever reach the airline counter so only ticketed passengers enter. A crisp, legible ID speeds you through in under a minute.
Digital IDs inside DigiLocker and mAadhaar are valid because they are authenticated copies pulled directly from government servers. Random gallery screenshots or printouts downloaded years ago raise eyebrows.
Carry the ID that matches the name on your ticket. If you booked using your passport name, show the passport. If you booked as per Aadhaar, show Aadhaar. Mismatched documents cause a loop of questions you don’t want a few hours before departure.
When allowed vs. when not
✅ When it's allowed
- •Keep IDs in an easy-access pouch before you join the queue.
- •Match middle names/initials during booking to reduce questions.
- •Carry a backup ID in case the primary one is damaged.
🚫 Exceptions / conditions
- •Don’t hand over a photo of an ID stored in WhatsApp—officers reject it.
- •Avoid using extremely worn-out cards; laminate or replace them in advance.
- •Never send your only ID in checked baggage; you need it during arrival checks too.
Special cases
- ✔Students: school/college ID for domestic flights.
- ✔Senior citizens: same list as adults; carry medical cards if you need priority assistance.
- ✔Foreign tourists: passport + visa / e-visa printout.
When CISF asks more questions
| Situation | What to show | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Ticket name differs slightly | ID + name-correction email | Arrive early so supervisor can note it |
| Group ticket without printed copy | One phone displaying all PNRs | Zoom into each passenger’s name |
| Digital ID only | DigiLocker live document | Keep phone battery above 30% |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an e-ticket screenshot?+
What if I legally changed my name?+
Is a photocopy acceptable?+
Travel tips
- ✈️Store PDFs of all IDs in an encrypted folder as backup.
- ✈️Charge your phone fully if you rely on digital IDs; carry a power bank (cabin only).
- ✈️Label kids’ IDs with their blood group or emergency contacts—it’s helpful beyond the airport too.
Related guides
Official references
DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 5 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.