Do Children Need A Real Id To Fly? Here's What To Know

REAL ID guide: What it is and how to get yours

REAL ID is becoming the nationwide standard for state-issued identification. Don't wait. Learn how to get yours.

The REAL ID enforcement deadline is one week away. Starting on May 7, adults will need compliant identification – or an acceptable alternative like a passport – for commercial air travel within the U.S. and to enter certain other facilities.

The new rule stems from the REAL ID Act of 2005, which “established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards,” according to the Department of Homeland Security.

While travelers over 18 may need to update their documents, the change does not apply to children. Here’s what to know.

No. The Transportation Security Administration does not require children to show ID when flying domestically, the agency said on its website. However, adults accompanying minors must do so.

Airline rules may vary, however, and some require parents or guardians to bring unaccompanied minors to the departure gate, according to the Department of Transportation. Adults need to have a photo ID for that.

Travelers should check their carrier’s requirements before flying.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.