Travelers arriving at airports without adequate identification will soon face a new charge, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prepares to roll out its Confirm.ID program. This initiative, set to begin on February 1, 2026, will introduce a $45 fee for passengers unable to present a REAL ID, passport, or other approved forms of identification at security checkpoints. This non-refundable fee, which covers a 10-day travel window, is intended to facilitate identity verification for unprepared travelers, though it does not guarantee swift passage through security.
The Confirm.ID program underscores the importance of proper documentation for air travel, especially given that REAL ID enforcement has been in effect since May 7, 2025. While designed as a fallback for those caught without the necessary documents, the program highlights the need for passengers to proactively ensure they meet identification requirements. Avoiding the fee and potential travel disruptions is best achieved by simply carrying a compliant ID, thereby streamlining the security process for everyone.
Understanding the New Confirm.ID Fee
The Transportation Security Administration is launching Confirm.ID on February 1, 2026, introducing a $45 fee for individuals who arrive at airport security without a valid form of identification, such as a REAL ID or a passport. This new system is a direct response to the REAL ID enforcement, which began on May 7, 2025, requiring passengers to present compliant identification for domestic air travel. Confirm.ID offers an alternative for those who forget their documents, utilizing biographic information for verification at checkpoints.
The Confirm.ID service costs $45, a non-refundable charge that covers identification verification for up to 10 days, allowing for multiple flights within that period. It's crucial to note that while this service aims to prevent travel disruptions, it does not guarantee expedited screening or automatic access to the secure areas of the airport. Passengers using Confirm.ID might still experience additional security checks and potential delays. The program will be implemented in phases across airports nationwide, emphasizing the need for travelers to be prepared with appropriate identification to avoid unexpected costs and inconveniences.
Strategies to Avoid the Identity Verification Charge
To bypass the $45 Confirm.ID charge, the most effective approach for travelers is to ensure they possess and present a valid form of identification when going through airport security. With REAL ID requirements already in effect since May 7, 2025, passengers must carry a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, a U.S. passport, a passport card, or other federally approved documents. This proactive measure eliminates the need for the supplementary verification service and helps maintain a smooth travel experience.
For those considering digital identification, it is essential to verify if their state participates in TSA-approved mobile ID programs before their trip. Checking the TSA's list of acceptable identification forms prior to departure is the most reliable way to confirm compliance and avoid any additional fees. Although Confirm.ID provides an option for travelers who find themselves without the proper documents, it is designed as a last resort, and its use may still lead to extra screening or delays. Therefore, preparedness with the correct identification remains the simplest and most efficient method to avoid the fee and potential travel complications.