TSA's $45 ConfirmID Fee Takes Effect: What Travelers Without REAL ID Need to Know
By [Your Publication's Name] Staff
WASHINGTON — A significant change is rolling out at airport security checkpoints across the United States. Starting today, travelers who do not possess a REAL ID-compliant license or another accepted form of identification, such as a passport, will be required to pay a $45 fee under the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) new ConfirmID program.
The move, detailed in a January press release, formalizes a process for verifying the identity of passengers without standard documentation. "This fee ensures that non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs," said TSA senior official Adam Stahl.
Travelers are strongly advised to pay the fee online at tsa.gov/ConfirmID before arriving at the airport. Upon payment, they will receive a receipt to present to a TSA officer, who will then guide them through an additional verification process that includes answering personal questions. The agency warns that failing to pay in advance could lead to delays of up to 30 minutes and potentially cause missed flights.
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and ID cards. Compliant cards are typically marked with a star in the upper corner. While the TSA estimates over 94% of passengers already use acceptable IDs, the agency emphasizes that thorough identity verification remains a cornerstone of aviation security.
"Identity verification is essential to traveler safety," Stahl stated. "The vast majority of travelers present acceptable identification... but we must ensure everyone who flies is who they say they are."
The $45 charge marks a substantial increase from an earlier proposed fee of $18. According to a Federal Register filing, the fee is designed to recoup government costs for the enhanced screening. The TSA notes that some individuals may need to pay the fee multiple times if they travel frequently without a REAL ID.
Accepted alternative documents include U.S. passports, DHS Trusted Traveler cards (like Global Entry), and Permanent Resident cards.
Traveler Reactions: Frustration and Resignation
News of the fee has sparked mixed reactions among frequent flyers.
Michael Torres, a business consultant from Chicago: "It's an administrative hassle, but I get it. Security isn't free. I renewed my license early to get the star, but for those who travel internationally and already use a passport, it's a non-issue."
Sarah Chen, a graduate student in Boston: "As someone who moves states often, keeping IDs current is a nightmare. This feels like a penalty for bureaucratic red tape. Forty-five dollars is a lot for a student budget, especially if you have to pay it more than once."
David R. Miller, a retired pilot from Florida: "This is a pure money grab, plain and simple. They've had nearly two decades to get people compliant. Now they're slapping a punitive fee on people, many of whom may be elderly or in marginalized communities who face hurdles getting the new ID. It's security theater funded by citizen inconvenience."
Priya Sharma, a travel blogger from Austin: "The key is planning ahead. Check your license for the star. If it's not there, use your passport or pay the fee online before you leave for the airport. It's an extra step, but avoiding the stress at security is worth it."