Planning a family trip to India can be exciting, but also stressful if you realise your child doesn’t have an Aadhaar card. Many parents wonder: Will airlines or trains stop us from travelling? What documents will we need? The good news is that travelling domestically without an Aadhaar card for your child is usually possible, but there are a few important things to keep in mind.

In this article, we explain what documents can be used instead, what airlines and railways usually ask for, and how you can prepare to avoid last-minute problems. Let’s make travel simpler and stress-free for families.

1. IS AADHAAR MANDATORY FOR DOMESTIC TRAVEL?

No, Aadhaar is not mandatory for children travelling within India by train, bus, or flight. Airlines, railways, and bus services mainly require adult passengers to show valid ID. Children under 18 are generally not asked for government-issued ID, especially young kids.

2. WHAT DOCUMENTS CAN YOU CARRY INSTEAD?

If your child doesn’t have an Aadhaar card, you can carry other documents. A birth certificate, school ID card, or passport (if available) usually works. For infants, parents can carry the hospital birth record or birth certificate. Most airlines will accept these as proof of age and identity.

3. AIRLINE RULES FOR KIDS WITHOUT AADHAAR

For domestic flights, airlines usually require ID proof only for passengers aged 18 and above. Children under 5 often don’t need any ID. For kids aged 5–17, some airlines may ask for a school ID or birth certificate, especially if the child looks older than their age. Always check your airline’s website before travelling.

4. TRAVELLING BY TRAIN OR BUS

Indian Railways do not require Aadhaar or any identification for children under 12 years old when they are travelling with a parent or guardian who has a valid ID. Similarly, for bus travel, a separate ID is typically not needed for young children. However, it is advisable to carry a copy of the birth certificate in case it’s required.

5. TIPS TO MAKE YOUR JOURNEY EASY

To avoid any confusion:

• Keep digital copies of your child’s birth certificate or school ID on your phone.
• Reach the airport or station early to handle unexpected questions.
• Print your tickets and carry a parent’s valid ID like Aadhaar, passport, driving licence, or voter ID.

In short, you can travel within India even if your child doesn’t have an Aadhaar card. Carry a few alternative documents, check airline guidelines in advance, and enjoy a worry-free trip with your family.

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