TSA could hit some travelers with a new $45 fee

Travelers who arrive at U.S. airports without a REAL ID or other compliant identification will soon face a new hurdle at security checkpoints, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rolls out an additional screening process that comes with a $45 charge.

The change, known as ConfirmID, took effect on February 1, and will help to verify passenger identities while allowing those without proper documentation to continue traveling. The new fee will offset the cost of extra screening required for passengers who do not present a Real ID, passport or other acceptable identification.

While the TSA will not turn these travelers away, the agency says the added steps will mean longer processing times and higher costs for those who are not prepared.

What Is ConfirmID?

Under the new program, travelers without compliant REAL ID will be directed into an enhanced identity verification process. Rather than being denied entry at the checkpoint, they will be asked to answer a series of personal questions that allow TSA officers to confirm who they are.

A REAL ID is a federally compliant driver’s license, learner’s permit or nondriver ID card, typically marked by a black or gold star in the upper right corner. The requirement stems from the REAL ID Act, which took full effect last May after years of extensions and warnings.

A sign notifies passengers at a security checkpoint about Real ID requirements for travel at O’Hare International Airport on May 7, 2025, in Chicago.

Why the Fee Is Being Introduced

TSA officials say the charge helps pay for additional resources needed to carry out the more intensive screening.

“TSA ConfirmID will be an option for travelers that do not bring a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID to the TSA checkpoint and still want to fly,” said TSA official Adam Stahl on January 15. “Impacted travelers will have the option to pay $45 and use the TSA ConfirmID process. This fee ensures that non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs. To avoid delays or missed flights, all travelers should obtain a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification before heading to the airport.”

In a video, TSA acting executive assistant administrator Steve Lorincz said: “It’s the law, and this law has been effect since 2005. It’s one of the recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. ID verification is critical to TSA and critical to TSA’s layered security approach process. So for us, our security and safety is paramount, and this is one of those layers that is critical to make sure that the system is safe.”

How To Pay and What To Expect

The TSA has said travelers can pay the $45 fee online before heading to the airport. Those who need to use ConfirmID can visit tsa.gov/ConfirmID, where they will receive an emailed receipt to show a TSA officer at the checkpoint.

The website accepts several forms of payment, including bank account transfers, PayPal, Venmo, and debit or credit cards.

Passengers who do not pay in advance may still be processed, but the TSA warns they could face longer waits. The additional identity screening is expected to add about 30 minutes to the security process.

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