At least that's what this article says...
The Transportation Security Administration doesn't advertise it. And few travelers know about it. But it's possible to fly domestically, even if your ID is lost, stolen, expired or forgotten. You'll just have to go through additional security.
"Most people think if they don't have ID, we won't let them fly," said TSA spokesman Nico Melendez. "We recognize that travelers often have wallets stolen or lose their belongings in tsunamis in Thailand."
<snip>Even with boarding pass in hand, I had to join the ticket-counter conga line to check bags — and get a new pass stamped SSSS, airline code for potential threat. Then at security, I was inspected more thoroughly than a piece of USDA-grade meat.
Although TSA won't divulge actual numbers, the LAX screener assigned to my secondary once-over wagered that about one in 10 fliers shows up without credentials.
<snip>What should you do if you're separated from your ID?
• Check the airlines' websites. In lieu of a government-issued photo ID, some carriers will allow other types of federal identification (voter registration card or Social Security card, for example) along with a credit card, birth certificate, school ID or library card.
• Make copies of your ID and keep them separate from originals. Although photocopies are not considered acceptable forms of ID, airlines and TSA said they could speed the process of clearing security.
• Call ahead. As soon as you discover your ID is gone, alert the airline, hotel, car rental and cruise line. They will note your record and have time to make other arrangements, if necessary.
• Get a police report. It's not a guarantee of passage, but TSA and the airlines recommend getting one to expedite screening.
• Use your elite status. If you're a high-level member, the supplier may be able to verify your identity through a database.
http://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-qa24dec24,1,4871253.column?coll=la-travel-headlinesIt still sounds like a big hassle, but it doesn't sound as if you'll be stranded. File a police report, get a copy, notify your state Dept. of Motor Vehicles, and call ahead to let the airline know you've lost your ID and see what you need to do.