GradWeek Frequently Asked Questions: Photo Identification

WHY DOES MY LAST NAME ON MY ACCOUNT APPEAR AS ONE WORD?

The airlines and bus companies require us to submit names in a certain format (name example: Robert Brian Smith Jones II; will read as: ROBERT BRIAN SMITHJONESII; this applies to multiple first, middle, or last names). Meaning, multiple First, Middle, or Last Names will be pushed together as one word (no spaces, hyphens, accents, etc.), per the airlines’ and bus companies’ name requirements.

• Important Note: The name listed on your traveler account/invoices must be the same name listed (excluding any spaces, hyphens, etc.) on your VALID Government-issued Photo ID (either State REAL ID or REAL ID Driver’s License, or passport booklet).
• Please contact our office via email info@istours.com or by phone, Monday – Friday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm at (800) 448-4444 for further questions.

 

WHAT TYPE OF PHOTO ID IS REQUIRED FOR TRAVEL?

• For International Travel (e.g., Mexico or the Bahamas): U.S. Citizens must have a valid passport booklet (valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates if visiting Mexico).
• Non-U.S. Citizens should consult their country’s consulate for specific documentation requirements.
• For Domestic Travel (e.g., Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Florida): A valid government-issued photo REAL ID is required.
  • You can also use a valid passport in your name in place of a REAL ID for domestic travel.
  • If you don’t have a valid passport booklet or REAL ID, apply as soon as possible, as identification applications can take 4-8 weeks for processing.
• Refunds will not be issued for travelers unable to attend due to missing or invalid documents.
• For the most up-to-date information, visit www.travel.state.gov.

Please Note: If the legal name listed on your valid government-issued photo ID does not exactly match the name listed on your GradWeek traveler account and airline e-ticket/itinerary, you may be denied check-in and/or boarding by the airline. Name correction requests cannot be submitted to GradWeek within 30 days of travel, so please do not delay. Log in to your traveler account today and verify that your legal name is listed exactly as it appears on your government-issued identification.

 

DOES MY NAME LISTED IN MY ONLINE ACCOUNT NEED TO MATCH MY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS?

Yes! The name in your online account is used to book your airline or bus ticket, and it must exactly match your valid government-issued photo ID (passport booklet – if traveling internationally or REAL ID – if traveling domestically).

Important Reminders: Double-check your name against your government-issued ID for accuracy when registering. Names will exclude any spaces or special characters in accordance with airline/bus name format requirements. No corrections can be made within 5 business days of departure. If you miss the deadline, you’ll need to request a correction at the airport during check-in—additional fees may apply.

 

WHAT DO I DO IF I LOSE MY GOVERNMENT-ISSUED PHOTO ID AND I DEPART WITHIN THE NEXT WEEK?

If you realize you’ve lost your government-issued photo ID, immediately notify the GradWeek office of your situation and follow the appropriate steps below:

For Domestic Travelers:

• Under 18—for the entire trip: You may bring a copy of your birth certificate and a photo ID (e.g., a school ID) to check in at the airport.
• 18 or older: Your only option is to try to obtain an emergency-issued government passport, as the DMV does not issue emergency IDs.

For International Travelers:

• Regardless of age, you must attempt to obtain an emergency-issued government passport booklet to travel internationally.
• For more information and passport office locations, please visit: www.travel.state.gov.

 

IS CHECKED LUGGAGE INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE?

No, checked luggage is not included in the trip price. You will need to pay for any checked bags directly at the airport. Once you receive your GradWeek flight itinerary/e-ticket, visit your airline’s website to confirm luggage fees. Be aware of TSA regulations regarding carry-ons, such as restrictions on liquids and medications. We suggest placing a photocopy of your ID and your phone number inside your checked luggage (keep your original ID on your person). Toiletries should also be packed in your carry-on for easy access. Important: Checked baggage fees are paid directly at the ticket counter when you arrive at the airport. If offered, we do not recommend checking your carry-on at the gate. Baggage fees can only be paid by a physical debit card/credit card or prepaid credit card. Cash or mobile pay apps, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, are not typically accepted at the ticket counter.

 

I HAVE ARRIVED AT THE AIRPORT; WHAT ARE MY NEXT STEPS?

Once you arrive at the airport, head to your airline’s ticket counter to check in for your flight. Present your printed e-ticket/itinerary to the ticket agent to receive your boarding pass and check any luggage you’re not carrying on.

• Important: Online, mobile, or kiosk check-in is not available for group travel.
• Travel Tip: Take a photo of your boarding pass as soon as you receive it, in case you misplace it during your trip. Next, proceed to the TSA security checkpoint. Be sure to have your valid government-issued photo ID and physical boarding pass easily accessible. After clearing security, locate your assigned gate before stopping at any shops or restrooms along the way.