Full Breakdown
TSA Introduces $45 Fee for Travelers Without REAL ID
2/2/2026, 10:50:12 PM
Overview of the New ConfirmID Program
Starting February 1, 2026, travelers in the United States who do not possess a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, will be required to pay a $45 fee to utilize the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) new identity verification system, known as ConfirmID. This program aims to facilitate the verification of identities for passengers lacking compliant identification while ensuring that the costs associated with this additional screening are borne by the travelers rather than taxpayers.
Details of the ConfirmID Process
Under the ConfirmID program, travelers without a REAL ID will undergo an enhanced identity verification process. This involves answering a series of personal questions to confirm their identity. The $45 fee covers the costs associated with this verification process, which is valid for a 10-day travel period. Travelers can pay the fee online at tsa.gov/ConfirmID before arriving at the airport, which is encouraged to avoid delays. Payment methods include debit or credit cards, PayPal, and Venmo.
If travelers do not prepay the fee, they may still be processed at the airport, but they could face longer wait times—potentially adding up to 30 minutes to their security screening. The TSA has indicated that the verification process may take between 10 to 30 minutes, depending on various factors.
Background on REAL ID Compliance
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission's recommendations, established stricter standards for state-issued identification. Full enforcement of the REAL ID requirements began on May 7, 2025. As of now, approximately 94% of air travelers are compliant, meaning they possess a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. The TSA emphasizes that obtaining a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative is the best way to avoid the new fee and additional screening.
Official Statements & Responses
TSA officials have stated that the introduction of the fee is a necessary step to ensure that non-compliant travelers cover the costs associated with their additional screening. Adam Stahl, TSA's acting deputy administrator, remarked, “This fee ensures that non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs.” He further urged travelers to obtain a REAL ID to avoid delays and potential missed flights.
Criticism & Opposition
While the TSA has framed the fee as a necessary measure for security, some travelers have expressed frustration over the additional costs and potential delays. Critics argue that the fee may disproportionately affect those who may not have the means to pay it, leading to concerns about accessibility and fairness in air travel.
What's Next
As the ConfirmID program rolls out, travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the acceptable forms of identification to avoid the fee. The TSA continues to recommend that all passengers secure a REAL ID or another acceptable form of ID well in advance of their travel dates to ensure a smooth airport experience.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This fee ensures that non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs.” — Adam Stahl, TSA Acting Deputy Administrator
- “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, TSA Acting Deputy Administrator
- “Identity verification is essential to traveler safety, because it keeps terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens out of the skies,” — Adam Stahl, TSA Acting Deputy Administrator
