What kind of ID is needed for my child to fly?

Question

Im taking my 4 yr old on a plane for the 1st time. I will be taking him without his father. We're not going internationally, just domestic...what kind of ID is needed? Birth certificate? Do i need a letter from his dad saying its ok to take him without his dad present? Also, on his birth certificate, it has my maiden name as his mother, and ive since married someone other than his dad, so my present last name isnt anywhere on his birth certificate, will that matter? Thanks

Answer 1

This will depend on the airline. The two domestic airlines in Australia, for example, have different requirements. Usually if the child is travelling domestically with a parent the parent's ID is enough.

Answer 2

Birth certificate was all I needed for both of my children to fly from Nevada to California. My youngest is only one years old, my oldest is 8. My mom took them, and I was not present at all. I don't think you will have a problem.

Answer 3

He's only 4. You really don't need any of those items, but if you really feel it necessary, most state DMV's have applications for photo ID's and you can get him a state ID card for a fee. Or if you have his passport you can take that with you as his ID, since all you need is a government or state issued ID.