A new $45 fee for travelers without Real ID starts Feb. 1. Here’s what to know.
Travelers who do not have a Real ID may face a new $45 fee starting on February 1, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin imposing the charge on passengers without the enhanced identification to cover the cost of additional screening. Rather than turning away travelers at airport checkpoints, TSA will implement the ConfirmID program, which involves subjecting passengers without compliant identification to additional identity screening.
A Real ID is a federally compliant state driver’s license, learner’s permit, or nondriver ID card, identified by a black or gold star in the upper right corner. The TSA is advising all travelers to obtain a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification before heading to the airport to avoid delays or missed flights. The $45 fee serves as a fallback option for those without Real IDs.
The ConfirmID program may slow down the screening process for everyone, but it will help travelers without Real IDs to pass through security. Anyone without a Real ID or a Real ID-compliant form of identification, such as a passport or DHS trusted traveler card, may be required to pay the extra charge at airport security checkpoints nationwide. The fee-based system validates a passenger’s identity for 10 days and varies from airport to airport.
Travelers are encouraged to pay the fee online before arriving at the airport to avoid delays. Payment options include bank account (ACH), PayPal account, Venmo account, and debit or credit card. Those who do not pay ahead of time may experience delays at the airport, increasing the risk of missing their flights. It is important to note that travel insurance policies may not cover such mishaps.
About 94% of travelers are already Real ID compliant, but many may not be aware of their compliance status. The TSA provides a full list of acceptable forms of ID on their website for reference. While the $45 charge is not expected to generate significant revenue for the TSA due to high compliance rates, it ensures that the cost of ID verification is covered by the traveler, rather than the taxpayer.
In conclusion, travelers should plan ahead and ensure they have a Real ID or another acceptable form of identification to avoid the $45 fee and potential delays at airport security checkpoints. It is important to stay informed about the TSA’s requirements and make necessary arrangements before embarking on any travel plans.
