The Transportation Security Administration is charging travelers a $45 fee if they arrive at airport security checkpoints without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification.
The Dallas Express previously reported that TSA outlined a proposed $18 user fee for a modernized alternative identity verification system in a Federal Register notice last fall. The policy now in effect finalizes the program as TSA ConfirmID and sets the fee at $45.
Travelers without acceptable identification who still want to fly are directed to the ConfirmID process before entering the security screening line. TSA said the fee covers a 10-day travel period, though travelers using the process should expect longer wait times.
“Identity verification is essential to traveler safety, because it keeps terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens out of the skies and other domestic transportation systems such as rail,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA Adam Stahl. “… travelers who do not present an acceptable form of ID at our security checkpoints and still want to fly can pay a $45 fee and undergo the TSA ConfirmID process.”
TSA said more than 94% of passengers already present acceptable identification, including REAL ID-compliant licenses, passports, military IDs, permanent resident cards, and DHS trusted traveler cards such as Global Entry.
The agency encourages travelers who expect to use ConfirmID to pay the fee online before arriving at the airport, though payment information is also available near checkpoints. TSA said procedures may vary by airport.
Additional information about acceptable identification and REAL ID requirements is available on TSA’s website or through AskTSA by texting 275-872.
