Can a Felon Fly on an Airplane?
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Yes, felons can fly on commercial airlines within the United States. There is no law prohibiting people with felony convictions from flying domestically. The TSA screens passengers for security threats, not criminal history — the standard airport security screening (ID check, metal detector/body scanner, bag X-ray) does not involve a criminal background check. However, TSA PreCheck — the expedited screening program — does involve a background check and may deny enrollment for certain criminal convictions. The only absolute bars to flying are being on the federal No Fly List (reserved for individuals who pose a direct threat to aviation security) or not having a valid form of government-issued ID. For international flights, you need a valid passport, which most felons can obtain.
You CAN fly if you...
- ✓Any felon can fly domestically within the United States — there is no criminal history restriction for domestic air travel
- ✓Standard TSA airport security screening does not involve a criminal background check
- ✓You can fly with a valid government-issued ID (driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID)
- ✓Even without ID, TSA has a process to verify your identity at the airport (though expect delays)
- ✓International travel requires a valid passport, which most felons can obtain
- ✓You are not on the federal No Fly List or Selectee List
You CANNOT fly if you...
- ✗Placed on the federal No Fly List
The No Fly List is maintained by the FBI's Terrorist Screening Center and prevents listed individuals from boarding commercial aircraft. The list is reserved for individuals who pose a direct threat to civil aviation or national security — typically terrorism-related. A standard felony conviction does not result in No Fly List placement. If you believe you are on the list incorrectly, you can apply for redress through the DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP). (49 U.S.C. § 114 / TSA Secure Flight program)
- ✗No valid government-issued identification
TSA requires a valid form of identification to fly. Acceptable IDs include: driver's license, state ID, passport, passport card, military ID, and several others. Starting May 2025, REAL ID-compliant identification is required for domestic flights. If you lost your ID or it was confiscated, you need to obtain a replacement before flying. TSA does have a process for passengers without ID, but it involves additional screening and is not guaranteed. (TSA identification requirements)
- ✗On supervised release or probation with travel restrictions
If you are on probation, parole, or supervised release, your travel may be restricted to certain geographic areas. Even domestic air travel may require permission from your supervising officer. International travel almost always requires explicit written approval. Violating travel restrictions is a supervision violation. (Federal/state supervised release conditions)
- ✗Outstanding federal arrest warrant
While TSA does not check for warrants during standard screening, law enforcement officers at airports can and do check. Buying an airline ticket and checking in creates a record that can be flagged. If you have an outstanding federal warrant, flying is extremely risky — you may be arrested at the airport. (Federal warrant enforcement)
Gray areas — it depends on your state and circumstances
TSA PreCheck enrollment with a felony
TSA PreCheck involves a background check. The TSA's list of disqualifying offenses includes certain crimes within the past 7 years (or 5 years for some offenses): espionage, sedition, treason, terrorism, unlawful possession of explosives, certain transportation-related crimes, and some violent felonies. Convictions older than 7 years generally do not disqualify. Many felons — particularly those with non-violent convictions or older offenses — have successfully enrolled in PreCheck.
Global Entry and other trusted traveler programs
Global Entry (CBP's trusted traveler program for international travel) has stricter requirements than TSA PreCheck. CBP conducts a thorough background check and has broader discretion to deny enrollment. Any customs or immigration violation, criminal conviction, or pending charges can result in denial. However, it is not an automatic denial — CBP evaluates each case individually. Drug convictions and dishonesty offenses face the most scrutiny.
Flying with a criminal record and REAL ID
Starting May 2025, TSA requires REAL ID-compliant identification for domestic air travel. A REAL ID is a driver's license or state ID that meets federal standards. Having a criminal record does not prevent you from obtaining a REAL ID — the requirements are proof of identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of residency. If your license was suspended, you can usually get a state ID card.
International flights and passport requirements
For international flights, you need a valid U.S. passport. Most felons can obtain passports. Exceptions include: certain federal drug trafficking convictions (22 U.S.C. § 2714), owing over $2,500 in child support, and court-ordered passport surrender. The destination country may have its own entry restrictions for people with criminal records (Canada is notably strict, Mexico is generally accessible).
Enhanced screening and the Selectee List
The Selectee List (also managed by the Terrorist Screening Center) flags passengers for enhanced screening but does not prevent them from flying. If you are on the Selectee List, you will always receive additional screening (SSSS on your boarding pass). This list is separate from criminal records and is based on intelligence information related to potential security threats. A standard felony does not trigger Selectee List placement.
Air Travel Types — Domestic, International, PreCheck
| Type | Difficulty | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic Flights | No Restrictions for Felons | Domestic air travel within the United States has no criminal history restrictions. Standard TSA screening involves ID verification and security screening (metal detector, body scanner, bag X-ray) — not criminal background checks. The only restriction is the No Fly List, which is terrorism-related and does not include standard felony convictions. Felons fly domestically every day without any issues. |
| International Flights (from U.S.) | Requires Valid Passport — Destination May Restrict | International flights require a valid passport. Most felons can get passports. The TSA screening at departure is the same as domestic. However, the destination country may have entry restrictions for people with criminal records. Check the specific country's requirements before booking. Canada is the most restrictive major destination; Mexico and most Caribbean islands are generally accessible. |
| TSA PreCheck Enrollment | Background Check — Most Felons Eligible | TSA PreCheck costs $78 for 5 years. The background check reviews criminal history, but the disqualifying offenses are specific and time-limited (mostly 5-7 year lookback periods for non-terrorism offenses). Many felons with older convictions or non-disqualifying offenses have successfully enrolled. If denied, you receive a letter explaining why, and you can apply for a waiver. |
| Global Entry / NEXUS / SENTRI | Stricter Background Check | These CBP trusted traveler programs have stricter requirements than TSA PreCheck. CBP conducts a more thorough investigation and has broader discretion. Criminal convictions of any kind can result in denial, though it is not automatic. Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck benefits. If Global Entry is denied, you can apply for PreCheck separately. |
How to Apply — Step by Step
Obtain valid government-issued ID
Ensure you have a valid, REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID card. As of May 2025, REAL ID is required for domestic air travel. If your license is suspended or expired, obtain a state-issued ID card from your DMV. A valid passport is also accepted. Having a criminal record does not prevent you from getting a REAL ID or state ID.
Book your flight — no special requirements
Book flights through any airline or travel website. There are no criminal history questions in the booking process. Airlines do not check criminal records. Use your legal name exactly as it appears on your government ID. For international travel, ensure your name matches your passport.
Check in and proceed through TSA screening normally
Arrive at the airport, check in (online or at the counter), and proceed through TSA security screening. Present your boarding pass and valid ID. You will go through standard screening: metal detector or body scanner and carry-on bag X-ray. TSA does not check criminal records during this process. Follow all TSA rules about prohibited items.
Consider applying for TSA PreCheck (optional)
TSA PreCheck ($78 for 5 years) gives you expedited screening: keep your shoes on, leave laptops in bags, shorter lines. Apply at tsaenrollment.tsa.dhs.gov. You will provide biographical information, fingerprints, and undergo a background check. Many felons qualify, especially if the conviction is older than 7 years. The background check takes 2-3 weeks. If denied, you can still fly normally — PreCheck is a convenience, not a requirement.
For international travel: obtain a passport
If flying internationally, apply for a U.S. passport through the State Department. Most felons can obtain passports. Exceptions are narrow: certain federal drug trafficking convictions, child support arrears over $2,500, and court-ordered passport restrictions. Apply at a passport acceptance facility (post offices, libraries) or renew by mail. Processing takes 6-8 weeks (standard) or 2-3 weeks (expedited).
Check destination country entry requirements
Before international travel, research whether your destination country restricts entry for people with criminal records. Canada is the strictest (bars entry for most felonies). Mexico generally does not check criminal records for tourists. Most Caribbean destinations are accessible. European countries vary. Check the destination country's embassy or consulate website for entry requirements.
Take Action — Direct Links
- TSA — What to expect at the airport
Official TSA travel information — screening procedures, ID requirements, and what you can bring on a plane
- TSA PreCheck — Apply online
Apply for TSA PreCheck expedited screening — $78 for 5 years, includes a background check
- DHS TRIP — Traveler redress (if you think you're on a watch list)
DHS Traveler Redress Inquiry Program — apply for redress if you believe you are incorrectly on a watch list or experiencing repeated screening issues
- U.S. State Department — Passports
Apply for or renew your U.S. passport for international air travel
- CBP — Global Entry
Apply for Global Entry — expedited customs processing for international travelers, includes TSA PreCheck
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can a felon fly on an airplane?
- Yes. There is no law or regulation prohibiting felons from flying on commercial airlines within the United States. The TSA screens passengers for security threats (weapons, explosives) — not criminal history. Standard airport security does not involve a criminal background check. The only absolute bar is being on the federal No Fly List, which is reserved for individuals posing a direct threat to aviation security (terrorism-related) and does not include standard felony convictions.
- Does TSA check criminal records?
- Not during standard airport screening. When you go through TSA security at the airport, they check your ID against your boarding pass and screen you and your bags for prohibited items. They do not run a criminal background check. However, TSA PreCheck enrollment involves a background check, and certain convictions within the past 5-7 years can disqualify you from PreCheck (though you can still fly normally).
- Can a felon get TSA PreCheck?
- Many felons can, yes. TSA PreCheck involves a background check, but the disqualifying offenses are specific: espionage, sedition, treason, terrorism-related offenses, certain transportation security crimes, and some other offenses — mostly within a 5-7 year lookback period. Standard felony convictions (drug offenses, theft, DUI, assault) that occurred more than 7 years ago generally do not disqualify. If denied, you receive a letter and can request a waiver.
- Can a felon get Global Entry?
- It is possible but harder than PreCheck. CBP conducts a more thorough background check for Global Entry and has broader discretion to deny enrollment. Any criminal conviction, pending charge, or customs/immigration violation can be grounds for denial — but denial is not automatic. CBP evaluates each case individually. If denied Global Entry, you can apply for TSA PreCheck separately. Global Entry costs $100 for 5 years and includes PreCheck benefits.
- What ID do I need to fly?
- As of May 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, or another acceptable form of ID: U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, permanent resident card, or DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI). Having a criminal record does not prevent you from obtaining any of these IDs. If your driver's license is suspended, get a state ID card from your DMV.
- Can a felon fly internationally?
- Yes, with a valid passport. Most felons can obtain U.S. passports (exceptions are narrow: certain drug trafficking convictions, child support arrears, court orders). The bigger consideration is whether the destination country allows entry for people with criminal records. Each country has its own rules. Check the destination's entry requirements before booking. The TSA screening process is the same for domestic and international departures.
- What is the No Fly List?
- The No Fly List is maintained by the FBI's Terrorist Screening Center. It prevents listed individuals from boarding commercial aircraft. The list is reserved for people who pose a direct threat to civil aviation or national security — it is terrorism-focused. Standard felony convictions (even violent ones) do not result in No Fly List placement. The list contains approximately 50,000-80,000 names (mostly non-U.S. persons). If you believe you are incorrectly listed, apply for redress through DHS TRIP.
- Can I fly with an outstanding warrant?
- Technically, having a warrant does not prevent you from buying a ticket or boarding a plane — TSA does not check for warrants during standard screening. However, it is extremely risky. Law enforcement officers at airports can and do check for warrants. Buying a ticket creates a record that can be flagged. Flying out of state with a warrant can add federal charges. It is strongly advised to resolve any outstanding warrants before traveling.