Quick summary: Green card holders can travel within the United States, but domestic travel can still carry immigration risks. Before you travel, keep your documents with you, understand situations that may create added risk, and know what to do if an officer stops or questions you. This article summarizes information from a July 31, 2026, American Immigration Lawyers Association flyer in plain language. It is general information, not legal advice.

Carry Your Green Card and Backup Identification

If you are a lawful permanent resident and are age 18 or older, the flyer says federal law requires you to carry your green card, also called Form I-551, at all times. An immigration officer can ask to see it. Not having it with you can lead to a federal misdemeanor charge, a fine of up to $100, or up to 30 days in jail.

Your green card is accepted identification for TSA when you fly inside the United States. According to the flyer, you do not need a separate REAL ID driver’s license just to take a domestic flight. Still, it can be helpful to carry a second form of identification, such as a state-issued REAL ID or enhanced driver’s license, or a valid foreign passport.

Also carry your immigration attorney’s phone number on paper. A written phone number can be important if your phone is unavailable, lost, or taken from you.

Understand When Travel May Have More Risk

A green card gives a person important rights, but it does not prevent arrest, questioning, or removal proceedings. The AILA flyer identifies several situations that can create more risk.

First, a criminal record may be important, even if the case is old. The flyer specifically notes that a DUI, misdemeanor, or plea agreement can create immigration consequences. If you have criminal history, do not accept a criminal plea without first speaking with an immigration attorney.

Second, the flyer warns that travel through certain states may bring added risk during a routine traffic stop. It names Alabama, Texas, and Florida as examples. If you have questions about your immigration status, speak with an attorney before traveling through a state where local laws may increase the chance of immigration detention or arrest.

Third, bus and train travel can involve a separate concern. The flyer explains that Border Patrol may board buses and trains within 100 miles of a U.S. border without a warrant. This area includes all of Florida and Michigan, several New England states, and large parts of states including Arizona, California, and Texas.

Know What Can Happen at the Airport

For domestic flights, the flyer says that TSA shares passenger information with ICE. ICE can compare that information with records involving people who have final removal orders. The flyer states that ICE agents may be sent to airports to make arrests and that ICE is already present at many airports.

This may be especially important for a person with a pending removal order, an outstanding warrant, or criminal history. If any of these issues apply to you, the flyer advises speaking with your immigration attorney before flying.

Planning ahead matters. Before booking a flight, consider whether there is any unresolved immigration or criminal issue that could affect your travel. A short legal consultation before travel may help you understand your individual situation.

You May Opt Out of a Facial Recognition Scan

The flyer reports that DHS is bringing together biometric information from TSA, ICE, CBP, and USCIS, including facial-recognition information. It also states that TSA expanded facial recognition to 65 airports in early 2026.

For domestic flights, the flyer says travelers currently have the right to opt out of facial recognition and request manual identification verification instead. You can clearly say that you are opting out of facial recognition and want manual ID verification. If an agent refuses, the flyer advises asking for a supervisor.

Opting out now does not necessarily remove earlier facial-recognition scans from the system. The flyer notes that scans taken when a person lawfully entered the United States may remain in the system.

If You Are Stopped, Questioned, or Detained

Try to stay calm. Do not run, argue, or physically resist. If an immigration officer asks for your green card, present it. The flyer says green card holders are legally required to show it on demand.

After providing your green card, you may choose to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer. You can state that you are exercising your right to remain silent and that you want an attorney. Then do not provide additional information until you have legal advice.

Most importantly, do not sign documents you do not understand. The flyer specifically warns against signing a Voluntary Departure form. It says signing that form permanently waives the right to a hearing before an immigration judge. Ask to speak with an attorney before signing anything.

A Simple Travel Checklist

• Carry your green card.
• Bring a second form of identification, if available.
• Write down your immigration attorney’s phone number.
• Consider legal advice before flying if you have a removal order, warrant, criminal history, or another status concern.
• Know that you can request manual ID verification instead of a facial-recognition scan for domestic travel.
• Stay calm if stopped, present your green card, ask for an attorney, and do not sign forms without legal guidance.

FAQ

Do I need a REAL ID to fly within the United States?

According to the flyer, your green card is TSA-accepted identification for domestic flights. A separate REAL ID driver’s license is not required simply because you are flying domestically.

Should I carry my green card when I travel by car?

Yes. The flyer says lawful permanent residents age 18 and older must carry their green card at all times and present it when requested by an immigration officer.

Can I refuse a facial-recognition scan at the airport?

The flyer says that, for domestic flights, you currently may opt out and request manual identification verification. You can ask for a supervisor if needed.

What should I do if an officer asks me to sign a form?

Do not sign a form you do not understand. Ask to speak with an attorney first. The flyer gives special warning about Voluntary Departure forms because signing may waive your right to a hearing before an immigration judge.

When should I speak with an immigration attorney before traveling?

Consider speaking with an attorney before travel if you have a pending or final removal order, an outstanding warrant, criminal history, or concerns about your immigration status. These issues may affect the risks of domestic travel.

At Ventresca & Ventresca LLP, we understand that immigration questions can feel urgent and stressful. If this update affects a pending or planned matter, contact us to discuss your situation and the next steps.