Full Breakdown
New $45 Fee for Travelers Without REAL ID in North Carolina
1/9/2026, 8:52:00 PM
Overview of the New Fee Implementation
Starting February 1, 2026, travelers at North Carolina airports who do not possess a REAL ID will incur a $45 fee for identity verification. This fee is part of the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) new identity verification system, TSA ConfirmID, which aims to enhance security at airport checkpoints. The fee covers a 10-day travel period, allowing travelers to pay once for multiple flights within that timeframe.
Background on REAL ID Requirements
The REAL ID Act, enacted in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, mandates that state-issued identification meet federal security standards. The full enforcement of REAL ID requirements began on May 7, 2025. A REAL ID is necessary for boarding commercial flights and accessing certain federal facilities. While approximately 94% of travelers already comply with these requirements, the new fee targets those who do not have a REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification.
Key Details of the TSA ConfirmID System
The TSA ConfirmID system allows travelers without a REAL ID to verify their identity at security checkpoints. The $45 fee will be charged for this service, which is expected to result in longer wait times, potentially extending the screening process by 10 to 30 minutes. Travelers are encouraged to pay the fee online in advance to streamline their airport experience.
Official Statements & Responses
Adam Stahl, the Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA, emphasized the importance of identity verification for traveler safety, stating, “Identity verification is essential to traveler safety, because it keeps terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens out of the skies.” He urged travelers to obtain a REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification to avoid delays.
Criticism & Opposition
While the TSA has positioned the fee as a necessary measure for security, some critics argue that it may disproportionately affect low-income travelers who may struggle to afford the additional cost. Concerns have also been raised about the potential for increased delays at airports, which could lead to missed flights and added stress for travelers.
Alternatives to REAL ID
Travelers can still use several alternative forms of identification to avoid the fee, including U.S. passports, military IDs, and permanent resident cards. These alternatives will continue to be accepted at TSA checkpoints without incurring additional charges.
What's Next
A press conference is scheduled for January 12, 2026, at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, where TSA and the North Carolina DMV will provide further details about the new TSA ConfirmID system and the importance of compliance with REAL ID requirements.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer.” — Adam Stahl, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA
- “This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer. The security of the traveling public is our top priority, so we urge all travelers to get a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID as soon as possible to avoid delays and potentially miss flights.” — Adam Stahl, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA
