Earlier this year, new REAL ID requirements for domestic travel kicked in. Soon, the Transportation Security Administration will refer all passengers who do not have acceptable identification to pay $45 to use the TSA Confirm.ID system.
In a Monday press release, the TSA explained that the TSA Confirm.ID process for identity verification will be offered upon TSA check-in starting Feb. 1 of next year. It said that the process will vary by airport and that TSA is “working with private industry to proactively offer online payment options prior to arrival at the airport.”
Most Americans (94%, according to the TSA) already use either REAL ID cards or other acceptable forms of identification at TSA check in. However, some travelers still present non-REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or ID. TSA said increased wait times are expected for these passengers.
While the REAL ID law was passed more than two decades ago – a few years after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks – it was just enforced nationwide this year by Homeland Secretary Kristi Noem. According to TSA, the REAL ID law was based on the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses,” to improve security.
“Identity verification is essential to traveler safety, because it keeps terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens out of the skies and other domestic transportation systems such as rail,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA Adam Stahl, per the Monday press release.
With the $45 fee, travelers will be allowed to use the TSA Confirm.ID system for a 10-day travel period. They can also pay the fee online before traveling, though information for those who don’t will be available at marked locations near the TSA checkpoints at most airports. Stahl said the fee ensures the “cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer.”
Stahl and the TSA still encourage travelers to get REAL IDs or acceptable forms of identification
“The security of the traveling public is our top priority, so we urge all travelers to get a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID as soon as possible to avoid delays and potentially miss flights,” Stahl said. REAL IDs can be obtained through local DMV facilities. Temporary drivers’ licenses are not acceptable forms of ID.
Acceptable forms of ID include:
· State-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
· DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
· U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
· Permanent resident card
· Border crossing card
· An acceptable photo ID issued by a federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
· HSPD-12 PIV card
· Foreign government-issued passport
· Canadian provincial driver's license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
· Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
· U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
· U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
· Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
TSA’s list of acceptable forms of ID can also be found at TSA.gov/travel/security-screening/identification. More information on REAL ID is available at TSA.gov/real-id or via text at 275-872 (“AskTSA”) and @AskTSA.