Starting February 1, the TSA is introducing a $45 fee for anyone who doesn’t have a REAL ID or passport and wants to go through airport security using the new ConfirmID process.
Keep in mind, paying the fee doesn’t guarantee you’ll get through screening faster, and there could still be delays.
TSA says this change is meant to shift costs from taxpayers to those who aren’t compliant with ID requirements.
Here’s what the TSA ConfirmID system actually is — based on official info and recent reporting:
What TSA ConfirmID Is
TSA ConfirmID is a modernized alternative identity-verification system that the Transportation Security Administration is rolling out at U.S. airport checkpoints. It’s designed for travelers who don’t have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID when they go through security.
How It Works (in simple terms)
• Instead of just manually calling a vetting center or relying on your ID card, the system uses automated technology that checks your identity by comparing your biographic and, if available, biometric information (like name, date of birth, possibly facial matching) against secure TSA databases.
• This process is meant to be more technology-assisted and streamlined than the older manual methods.
What Travelers Do
• If you don’t have a REAL ID or another approved ID, you can pay a $45 fee before airport arrival (online) or at the airport to use ConfirmID.
• You’ll receive a receipt that you show to TSA at security. The system attempts to verify your identity before you go through.
• It’s valid for a 10-day travel window and may still involve extra screening or delays.
Important Notes
• Paying doesn’t guarantee you’ll be cleared — TSA can still deny access if your identity can’t be confirmed.
• The program is essentially a backup system for when someone arrives without compliant identification.
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