Departures Guide
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REAL ID and other travel regulations
Federal regulations require all U.S. travelers to have a REAL ID or Enhanced Driver’s License to fly domestically. Passports may also be used. Travelers without compliant identification may be subject to additional screening, per TSA guidance. Please allow for extra travel time. Please see the TSA website for more REAL ID information. opens in a new tab
Visit the Department of Homeland Security opens in a new tab for details on:
- Visa requirements
- Passport guidelines
- International travel regulations
Travelers without an acceptable form of ID have the option to pay a $45 fee to use an alternative identify verification system, TSA Confirm.ID. opens in a new tab
Traveling to the United Kingdom?
Visitors to the UK, including US citizens, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before boarding their flight.
Luggage and carry-on items
Review the TSA's guidance opens in a new tab on what items can be brought in both your carry-on and checked bags.
Transporting firearms
Before traveling, check with your airline about transporting firearms. State gun laws vary. You should also confirm regulations with the New York State Police opens in a new tab or New Jersey State Police opens in a new tab before carrying a weapon into New York or New Jersey.
Baggage Services
JFK offers a full range of baggage services to help with your departure.
Walk times to gates
For step-by-step directions and more precise estimates, use the interactive map to navigate directly to your gate opens in a new tab.
Be sure to arrange for any special assistance you may need in advance, including wheelchair assistance, either directly with your airline or through a travel agent.
Accessibility assistance at JFK
JFK offers a range of accessibility features and services designed to make every part of your trip through our terminals accessible and comfortable. For additional assistance—such as mobility support or help navigating between gates, terminals, security, or customs—you may also wish to arrange support in advance through your airline.
Traveling with pets and service animals
Whether you are flying with a pet or service animal, reach out to your airline to notify them in advance. They can provide details on cabin access, seasonal restrictions, and required documentation so you have no issues upon arrival.
Pets traveling through the terminal should remain in their carriers and stay with their owners throughout their time in the facility. Services animals are not required to be in carriers and should stay with their handlers at all times.
Does your pet or service animal need a break? Pet and service animal relief areas are available throughout the airport at each terminal. Please use provided supplies to clean up after your pet. For accidents elsewhere, clean up and alert the cleaning crew. To find the locations, visit the interactive map opens in a new tab, ask an Airport Customer Experience Specialist (ACES), or speak with other terminal staff.
Everything you need for departure
Got a connecting flight?
If you’re changing planes at JFK or traveling to another airport nearby, the Connections Guide has helpful tips to make your trip easier.
Find transportation to JFK
Need a ride to JFK? Learn about taxis, shuttles, rental cars, public transit, and parking options to help you get where you’re going.
Grab a snack, pick up a gift, or take a break
Before you leave JFK, stop by for a quick bite, grab a last-minute gift, or relax at one of our lounges or shops.
Find carts, cash, and baggage help
After you arrive at JFK, you can find luggage carts, ATMs, porter services, and help with baggage issues. For lost or delayed bags, contact your airline first, then visit a baggage office if needed.
Get some extra sleep
Avoid the stress of early travel by staying at JFK's only on-site hotel the night before your flight.