TSA Confirm.ID Fee: New $45 Cost For Travelers Without ID

The TSA Confirm.ID fee is a newly announced requirement for airline passengers who arrive at security checkpoints without acceptable identification. Washington officials confirmed today that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin referring these travelers to a fee-based alternative system. This new protocol allows passengers to fly using a modernized verification process if they pay the required amount. The TSA Confirm.ID fee ensures that the financial cost of verifying insufficient IDs comes directly from the traveler rather than the taxpayer.

This policy marks a significant shift in airport security procedures. Starting on February 1, 2026, the agency will fully implement this measure. Travelers who do not present a valid form of ID must utilize the TSA Confirm.ID fee option if they still intend to board their flights. The cost is set at $45. This payment covers a 10-day travel period for the specific passenger. TSA officials continue to urge all flyers to obtain a REAL ID to avoid this extra cost. Scheduling an appointment at a local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to update identification documents remains the recommended course of action.

New Verification Requirements

The implementation of this fee follows years of regulatory adjustments regarding the REAL ID Act. This law was originally signed more than two decades ago. However, full implementation faced delays under the previous leadership. The current administration successfully moved forward with the law. Secretary Kristi Noem enforced the requirements effectively as of May 7, 2025. This enforcement occurred under the leadership of President Trump.

Statistics from the agency show high compliance rates among the general public. Currently, more than 94% of passengers present a REAL ID or another valid form of identification when traveling. The new system targets the small percentage of travelers who are not yet compliant.

Adam Stahl serves as the Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA. He emphasized that identity verification remains essential to traveler safety. Stahl noted that strict verification keeps terrorists, criminals, and undocumented people out of domestic transportation systems. This includes skies and rail lines.

“The vast majority of travelers present acceptable identification like REAL IDs and passports, but we must ensure everyone who flies is who they say they are,” Stahl said. Beginning February 1, 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 Confirm.ID process. This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer.”

Stahl reiterated that the security of the traveling public is the top priority for the agency. He urged travelers to obtain proper documentation immediately. This helps avoid delays and reduces the risk of missing flights.

Acceptable Forms Of Identification

Travelers can avoid the new fee by presenting one of several acceptable forms of identification. The primary option is a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license. These are state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles or an equivalent agency. Passengers unsure about their card’s compliance should check with their state DMV. It is important to note that a temporary driver’s license is not considered an acceptable form of identification.

Other state-issued cards are also valid. These include a State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or an Enhanced ID (EID). For international or federal identification, a U.S. passport or a U.S. passport card satisfies the requirement.

Members of trusted traveler programs can use their DHS trusted traveler cards. These include Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST cards. Military personnel may present a U.S. Department of Defense ID. This includes IDs issued to dependents. Veterans can use a Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC).

Several other specific documents are accepted at checkpoints. A Permanent Resident Card or a Border Crossing Card allows passage. Federally recognized Tribal Nations and Indian Tribes issue acceptable photo IDs. This category includes Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs).

Federal employees may use an HSPD-12 PIV card. Transportation workers can present a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Merchant mariners are permitted to use a U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential.

For foreign nationals or those with specific work authorizations, acceptable documents include a foreign government-issued passport, a Canadian provincial driver’s license, or an Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766) is also valid.

Processing And Wait Times

Passengers who do not possess one of the documents listed above will face a different experience at the airport. This applies to anyone presenting a non-REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license. These individuals will be referred to the optional TSA Confirm.ID process. This referral happens upon TSA check-in, prior to entering the standard security line.

The physical process for this verification will vary from airport to airport. The TSA is currently working with private industry partners to streamline the payment options. The goal is to proactively offer online payment methods. Travelers should attempt to pay the fee online prior to their arrival at the airport.

For those who arrive without having paid the fee, information will be available on-site. Most airports will have marked locations at or near the checkpoint with details on how to pay for the TSA Pre-Check.ID option.

Travelers should anticipate complications if they choose this route. The agency explicitly stated that travelers are undergoing TSA Confirm.ID processing should expect delays. These delays could significantly impact the time needed to clear security. TSA officials advise that obtaining a compliant ID is the most efficient way to travel.

TSA.gov/travel/security-screening/identification