American airports are set to introduce a significant new financial penalty for passengers who arrive unprepared. From 1 February, any traveller aged 18 or older who does not possess a Real ID or another accepted form of identification will be hit with a non-refundable $45 fee to clear security.
What is the TSA Confirm.ID Process?
The charge is linked to the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) alternative identity verification system, known as TSA Confirm.ID. Individuals without compliant ID will be referred to this process, which involves additional checks and can take 30 minutes or longer to complete at the airport checkpoint.
Authorities strongly advise travellers to prepay the fee online if they know they will need the service, in a bid to reduce potential delays. The $45 payment is valid for a 10-day travel period, covering both departure and return flights within that timeframe.
A Last Resort, Not a Guarantee
It is crucial for passengers to understand that this fee is a contingency measure. The TSA emphasises that using Confirm.ID is a last-resort option and does not automatically guarantee passage through security. If the agency cannot definitively confirm a traveller's identity through its alternative process, they may still be denied entry, even after paying the fee.
The full enforcement of the Real ID Act, which mandates these stricter identification standards for domestic air travel, finally began in May 2025. Its implementation faced multiple delays, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Takeaways for Travellers
The message from US officials is clear: preparation is key to a smooth journey. British nationals and other international visitors flying domestically within the United States should ensure they are carrying their passport. American citizens must check that their driver's licence or state ID is Real ID-compliant, typically indicated by a star symbol in the top corner.
Failing to have the correct documentation will now result in a costly and time-consuming alternative, with no certainty of success. The new policy underscores the heightened focus on security verification at US transportation hubs.
