We're taking two twelve year-olds to LA in August. Do airlines require an ID for juveniles? If so, what kind? Thanks.

Airlines vary, and possibly even by airport, so ask them directly. When I flew Southwest with my teens in April, they did require ID, and were pleased that we had passports, I'm not sure what would haev sufficied without those. Southwest checked the IDs not only when we checked in, but also as we wre boarding.

We just flew Northwest to Phoenix with 3 kids under 16 and at no time did anyone request any i.d. from them either in boston or Phoenix.

You can use a birth certificate or a school ID card, for example. I used my daughter's school ID - has a photo... When she traveled on SW. Call the airline and ask what they will accept.

We were told to bring library cards on Continental last year. This is a tricky one because I find attendants you get over the phone frequently give out wrong info on other issues. I am not just speaking about continental here. I would call more than once and then cross your fingers. Think it is more of an issue when kids are traveling out of the country. I have not flown with kids post 911

Flew SW in May with kids 12 & 15, they did not require ID for the kids as long as they were flying with their parents. However, we did bring along copies of their birth certificates, school id, and photo town id (which they use for town pools and golf courses)

Flew twice with my 8 and 12 yr old- once on Delta, once on SW. Never had to show ID. Must have birth certificate if you're cruising, going out of country, etc.

My 14 yr old son has travelled solo every summer since he was 7. The last couple of years he has taken his scholl ID and his passport w/ him for ID.

You should be able to get the kids a "State ID" card (looks like a drivers license at your local passport office or County Clerk office.

Ask your airline because it varies. When we flew Continental from NY-Honolulu, I didn't have to show ID for my 2 girls, age 15 and 12 but they did tell me that she needs an ID when she turns 16.

Flew American last spring with my 14 year old - he was never asked for ID.

Re "state IDs" - Massachusetts does not issue "state IDs" to anyone under driving age, which is 16.