Can you travel out of state with a warrant?

Asked by: Miss Ara McDermott DDS  |  Last update: May 3, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (33 votes)

Yes, you can technically fly with a bench warrant, especially on domestic flights, as the TSA does not specifically check for warrants. However, it is risky because any encounter with law enforcement, such as during a security incident or a routine check, could lead to the discovery of the warrant and your arrest.

Can you fly in the US with a warrant?

The possibility of flying with a warrant depends on various factors. In the US, you can board a plane with an order in place, but airlines can deny you boarding if they suspect you're trying to avoid prosecution or disrupt an investigation. Flying with an outstanding warrant might be challenging.

Do state warrants show up in other states?

How California shares warrant information with other states. In California, warrant information is primarily shared through the NCIC. When a warrant is issued in California, law enforcement agencies often enter it into the NCIC, making it accessible to officers across the country.

Do airports look up warrants?

Airports are high-security zones where passengers undergo thorough checks for safety and national security reasons. But do airports check for warrants? Generally, security personnel at airports and airport security officials themselves do not specifically check for outstanding warrants.

Do they check for warrants at the border?

Many travelers wonder if CBP is alerted when an inbound passenger has a warrant for their arrest issued. Yes, CBP is alerted.

Can I Travel if there is a Warrant for my Arrest?

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Do they run your name at the border?

U.S. immigration officers collect or verify basic personal information about you whenever you cross the U.S. border. This basic information includes your: Name.

Are there border checkpoints between states?

No. There are no checkpoints between states. Once in the US all lower 48 states are accessible by car, bicycle, truck, motorcycle and on foot without fear of police checkpoints. To access Alaska you have to go through Canada and there are borders to cross there.

What warrants stop you from flying?

Who Cannot Fly With a Warrant? Whether or not misdemeanor arrest warrant or someone with it can fly depends on the destination country. In the United States, both arrest warrants or individuals with arrest warrants are typically unable to fly, as the TSA can access a database of such individuals.

What does TSA see when they scan your ID?

An agent will review your name, photo, address and date of birth, then cross-check to see that the information on your travel documents matches your ID. Keep in mind that the Real ID Act is now in effect, and it aims to deter terrorists' ability to use fake or fraudulently obtained IDs.

Can you travel if you have a warrant?

While it's technically possible to board a flight with an open arrest warrant without TSA interference, risks abound. From local police presence at airports to CBP checks during international travel, the potential for arrest is real. It's crucial to consult with a legal expert to understand your options and risks.

What states don't extradite?

Answer and Explanation: The states of Florida, Hawaii, and Alaska do not extradite for all crimes. However, even these states (along with the others) will extradite for serious crimes, such as murder.

How to deal with a warrant in a different state?

Here's how it typically works:
  1. Arrest: If you're arrested in California on an out-of-state warrant, you'll be taken into custody.
  2. Hearing: You'll appear before a judge for an extradition hearing. ...
  3. Waiver or Contest: You can either waive extradition (agree to be transferred to the other state) or contest it.

What warrants are non-extraditable?

It is important to note that the severity of the offense is a significant factor in determining whether a warrant is extraditable. More serious charges, such as felony offenses, are typically extraditable, while minor offenses, such as traffic violations, may not be.

Can I get a passport if I have a warrant?

Additional Charges that Can Lead to a Passport Denial

You may have outstanding traffic fines that won't affect your passport approval. However, your passport can be denied if you have an outstanding warrant for a local, state, or federal felony offense.

Can you go on a cruise with a warrant?

So if you have a warrant for your arrest, do not take a cruise.

Do ID scanners show warrants?

When law enforcement “runs” your ID, if the officer wants it to, it can reveal wants, warrants and criminal history.

Does TSA know if you have a warrant?

In general, the TSA does not actively search for warrants on travelers. Their role is not to enforce criminal law or police civil aviation, but to manage risks and ensure flight safety. However, this is not a hard rule.

Do they run your ID at the airport?

When a CAT unit is in use, a TSA officer will ask travelers to provide their photo IDs. The officer will insert each photo ID into the CAT unit where the ID is scanned and analyzed.

What shows up when you scan ID?

Some of the components that an ID scanner analyzes include the first and last name, home address, birthdate, hair color, height, date issued, ID number, and more. There are three main steps that ID scanners need to go through.

Do airlines see warrants?

Typically, airlines and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) don't scan for arrest warrants when choosing who to allow on a flight. This is particularly true if you only have a warrant in one specific state (as opposed to a federal warrant or warrants in multiple states).

Do they run your name for warrants when you fly?

If you fly within the US, you're fine. TSA does not run warrant checks nor do they have the technology to do so. However, airport police DOES so it should go without saying to be on your best behavior and don't draw attention to yourself.

Does Amtrak check for warrants?

Do they check for warrants when you purchase or use an Amtrak ticket? No, Amtrak is not a law enforcement agency, and TSA does not engage in their ticketing, at this time, and to my knowledge.

What states do not have a border with another state?

Alaska and Hawaii do not share borders with any other U.S. state.

What do they ask at border checkpoints?

You may be asked where you were born, how you entered the U.S. or how long you've been here. You don't ever have to answer those questions. Your responses may be used to detain and deport you. Do not sign anything without talking to a lawyer.

What is the 100 mile border law?

The federal government defines a “reasonable distance” as 100 air miles from any external boundary of the U.S. So, combining this federal regulation and the federal law regarding warrantless vehicle searches, CBP claims authority to board a bus or train without a warrant anywhere within this 100-mile zone.