A New $45 Airport Security Fee Starts in February — but You Can Avoid It If You Pack This

If you ‘ve been putting off your visit to the DMV, your next flight is about to get more expensive.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin enforcing a strict pay-to-fly policy for travelers with non-compliant identification starting Feb. 1.

For years, the deadline for Real ID enforcement has been pushed back. That era of extensions has ended. The new enforcement mechanism is not a ban on travel, but a financial penalty.

The cost of non-compliance

Starting next month, travelers arriving at security checkpoints without a Real ID-compliant license, passport or other acceptable federal ID will be directed to a secondary screening line. To proceed, you must pay a $45 fee to use the new ConfirmID verification system.

This is not a one-time penalty. The fee applies to a single trip and is valid for only 10 days. If you fly frequently without updating your identification, these costs will compound rapidly.

What is ConfirmID?

The fee covers the operational costs of the ConfirmID system, which uses biometric data and database cross-referencing to verify a traveler’s identity when their physical ID falls short.

Beyond the $45 charge, the process adds time to your trip through TSA.

Reports indicate that the ConfirmID verification process can take upward of 30 minutes, potentially causing travelers to miss flights if they do not arrive significantly earlier than usual. The fee is non-refundable, even if you miss your boarding window while waiting for verification.

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How to avoid the charge

The simplest way to avoid this new expense is to ensure you have acceptable identification before heading to the airport.

• Check your license: Look for the star icon in the upper corner of your driver’s license. If it’s missing, your ID is not Real ID compliant.
• Use a passport: A valid U.S. passport or passport card is always accepted, regardless of your state ID status.
• Global Entry cards: If you’re a member of a trusted traveler program, your membership card serves as valid federal identification.

If you must fly without compliant ID after Feb. 1, be prepared to pay the fee via credit card or digital wallet at the airport. Cash will not be accepted at ConfirmID kiosks.

Not sure about the latest TSA rules? Learn more in “12 Liquids You Can Bring Through Airport Security — Even If They’re Over 3.4 Ounces” and “9 Things You Should Never Pack in a Carry-on Bag.”