Licenses are really only important if you are flying domestically, renting a car or barhopping.
For air travel, the Transportation Security Administration accepts alternate forms of identification, such as passports; trusted-traveler cards, such as Global Entry and Nexus; and a Defense Department ID, among others.
If you have none of the above, all is not hopeless.
According to the agency, an officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which could involve providing your name, address and other personal information. Once the officer confirms your identity, you can proceed to the screening checkpoint, but you will be subjected to additional screening, such as a pat-down. Because of the extra steps, TSA recommends arriving at least two hours before your flight.
“That was actually my top concern: How would I be able to fly home without my driver’s license?” French said of the lost-wallet incident. “I went to the airport super early to make sure I would be able to get through. They were able to confirm me through other means.”
For domestic car rentals, Scott said many states require the company to verify a valid driver’s license, so you can’t rent without hard proof. “An agent needs to physically see it or you need to scan it at the kiosk,” he said.
If your travel mate has a valid driver’s license, try to switch the reservation to their name. However, you will not be permitted to drive the vehicle.
Europcar said travelers can scan their driver’s license on its app. Depending on the country and local regulations, the rental car outlet may accept this form of ID. If you book through other portals, you will need to show an official or certified duplicate of your license or a police report registering your lost item.
An International Driving Permit translates your driver’s license information into 10 languages and is valid in 150 countries. Europcar said that, in some destinations, you may be able to use it as a substitute for a driver’s license.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7uK3SoaCnn6Sku7G70q1lnKedZMGzrdWeo2hqYGeAcHyYaGdxZ5ykwLV5z5qqrKifp8FutcNmmp6knKW1sLrEZpiiqqCkv7V7