Starting February 1, air travelers without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification will face a new $45 fee to use a special identity verification system at airport security checkpoints. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced this change, called TSA ConfirmID, as an optional alternative for those who need to fly but lack the required documents.
Key Takeaways
- Travelers without a REAL ID will pay a $45 fee starting February 1.
- The fee enables use of the new TSA ConfirmID system.
- ConfirmID covers a 10-day travel window.
- Prepaying the fee is strongly recommended to avoid delays.
- Additional screening and longer wait times are likely without a REAL ID or prepayment.
New Identity Verification System Explained
The TSA ConfirmID system offers a pathway for individuals who arrive at the airport without a REAL ID or other approved identification. This new policy aims to ensure that the costs associated with verifying these travelers are covered by the individuals themselves, rather than taxpayers.
Adam Stahl, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA, stated,
“TSA ConfirmID will be an option for travelers that do not bring a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID to the TSA checkpoint and still want to fly.”He emphasized that the $45 fee covers the processing of non-compliant travelers.
Important Fact
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. It mandates federal agencies to accept only these compliant documents for specific purposes, including boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft.
Understanding the ConfirmID Process and Costs
The $45 fee for TSA ConfirmID provides access to the identity verification system for a 10-day travel window. This means travelers can use it for a round-trip journey if both flights occur within that 10-day period. The TSA encourages travelers to pay this fee in advance.
Travelers who do not prepay and arrive at the checkpoint without acceptable identification should prepare for significant inconveniences. These include additional screening procedures and potentially longer wait times, which could extend up to 30 minutes. The risk of missing a flight also increases for these individuals.
Background on REAL ID
The deadline for REAL ID enforcement has been extended multiple times since its initial implementation. The most recent extension pushed the deadline to May 7, 2025. After this date, a standard driver's license will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel unless it is a REAL ID compliant card.
Why the Change?
The introduction of the ConfirmID fee is part of a broader effort to streamline security processes and ensure accountability. By charging non-compliant travelers, the TSA aims to recover the operational costs associated with manual identity verification and enhanced screening procedures.
The agency consistently advises all travelers to obtain a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification well before their travel date. This proactive step helps avoid potential delays, missed flights, and the additional fee.
Acceptable Forms of ID
While the focus is on REAL ID, the TSA accepts several other forms of identification for air travel. These include U.S. passports, U.S. passport cards, DHS trusted traveler cards (like Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. military IDs, permanent resident cards, and more. A full list of acceptable IDs is available on the TSA website.
Preparing for Your Next Flight
To ensure a smooth travel experience, travelers should verify their identification status well in advance of their departure. Checking if your state-issued driver's license or ID card is REAL ID compliant is the first step. These cards typically feature a star in the upper right corner.
- Check your ID: Look for the star on your driver's license or state ID.
- Apply for REAL ID: If you do not have one, begin the application process at your local DMV or equivalent state agency.
- Consider alternatives: A U.S. passport remains a widely accepted form of identification for domestic and international travel.
- Prepay ConfirmID: If you anticipate not having a REAL ID, consider prepaying the ConfirmID fee to minimize airport delays.
The new ConfirmID policy underscores the importance of proper identification for air travel. Travelers are encouraged to prepare to avoid unexpected costs and potential disruptions to their plans.
