A REAL ID is required for domestic travel as of May 7, 2025. You need a REAL ID, valid passport, DHS Trusted Traveler card, U.S. military ID or another acceptable ID to board.
What to expect when you fly
Travel looks different than it used to. This is why we’ve created processes and features to help you navigate the airport and your trip in a post-pandemic world.
Planning your tripPlanning your trip


- Download the app to have some of our best features and services at your fingertips.
- View travel requirements for your destination in the Travel-Ready Center.
- Pay for your bags in advance and sign up for bag delivery.
- Use Tap to Pay or set up contactless payments for inflight purchases.
- Let us know if you have any special requests, like kosher meals or wheelchair services.
Traveler pro tips
- As of May 7, 2025, your driver’s license or state issued ID must be a REAL ID to board domestic flights. Bring an acceptable form of identification like a REAL ID, valid passport, DHS Trusted Traveler card or U.S. military ID to board your flight.
- If an unacceptable form of identification is used at a security checkpoint, including TSA PreCheck lanes, passengers will be notified of the non-compliance by TSA and may receive additional screening.
In the lobbyIn the lobby


- View the terminal guide in our app so you enter the airport close to your gate.
- Check in your bag at the kiosk. Then, drop it off with an agent at the bag drop counter. To save time at the airport, use bag drop shortcut. Check a bag during check-in on united.com or the United app. Then, drop your bag in the bag drop shortcut area at the airport. An agent will tag your bag and quickly have you on your way.
- Get TSA PreCheck® to move through airport security faster.
At the gateAt the gate


- Scan your own boarding pass during boarding.
- Use the app to connect with an agent via phone, chat or video if you have any questions.
- Wait for your flight at a United Club with a membership or one-time pass.
On the planeOn the plane


- Board after we make sure the plane is cleaned and meets CDC guidelines.
- Receive a hand sanitizer wipe during boarding.
- Connect to our Wi-Fi network to use free messaging or buy Wi-Fi for your flight.
- Use contactless payments to buy snacks and drinks.
- Watch movies and TV shows, or play games, on our app.
- Receive items like pillows, blankets and headphones upon request.
Upon arrivalUpon arrival


- Check bag tracking using the app to see where your bags are.
- Use our terminal guide to find your connection or baggage claim.