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Air travelers who arrive at U.S. airports without a REAL ID or another approved form of identification will face a $45 fee starting February 1, according to the Transportation Security Administration.
The fee applies to passengers who need to use TSA ConfirmID, an alternative identity verification process designed for travelers without compliant identification. To use the system, passengers must complete the ConfirmID process online in advance, pay the fee, and bring either a printed or digital receipt to the airport.
TSA says the $45 payment covers identity verification for a 10-day travel window, meaning travelers with round-trip flights within that period will only need to pay once.
Officials emphasize that travelers can avoid the fee altogether by obtaining a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or presenting another acceptable form of identification. TSA representatives note that while most passengers already carry valid ID, verifying identity remains a core security requirement.
In Virginia, TSA reports that approximately 94% of travelers already use a REAL ID or another approved credential. However, officials warn that passengers relying on ConfirmID may experience longer wait times once the new process takes effect.
TSA continues to accept a wide range of identification documents, including U.S. passports, trusted traveler cards, military IDs, and other federally approved credentials.
SOURCE: WHSV3