You showed up without a REAL ID (or any acceptable ID). Now there’s a $45 TSA ConfirmID fee — here’s how to still fly (and avoid this next time)
The problem (and who it hits)
If you fly in the U.S. and arrive at the airport with:- a driver’s license/ID that is not REAL ID–compliant, and you don’t have another acceptable ID, or
- no acceptable ID at all (lost wallet, stolen bag, expired ID, left your passport at home)
…you can get stuck at the TSA checkpoint. Since May 7, 2025, TSA has been enforcing REAL ID rules at airport security, and travelers without compliant/acceptable identification can face additional screening, delays, and the possibility of not being permitted into the checkpoint if identity can’t be verified. [1]
Now there’s an additional twist: TSA is introducing a paid fallback process called TSA ConfirmID beginning February 1, 2026. In many cases, you can pay $45 to attempt identity verification and proceed—but it’s optional and not guaranteed to work. [2] [3]
This is especially stressful for:
- infrequent flyers who didn’t realize REAL ID enforcement already started
- people who rely on a standard driver’s license
- travelers who lose ID during a trip and only discover the problem on the return flight
Why it’s happening
1) REAL ID enforcement is already in effect
TSA began “full enforcement” on May 7, 2025: TSA checkpoints no longer accept state-issued IDs that are not REAL ID compliant for “official purposes” like boarding commercial aircraft—unless you present another acceptable form of ID. [1]2) TSA ConfirmID is a new paid fallback for people who show up without acceptable ID
TSA’s ConfirmID is positioned as an option for travelers who arrive without acceptable ID and still want to fly. TSA states it’s valid for a 10-day travel period, and you may need to show proof of payment. [2] [4]Importantly: even after paying, TSA may still be unable to verify your identity, and you can still be denied entry to the checkpoint. [3]
Solutions (step-by-step)
Solution A (best): Avoid ConfirmID by bringing an acceptable alternative ID
If your driver’s license isn’t REAL ID (or you can’t find it), your fastest “save” is often using another acceptable ID.Steps
1. Check what you already have at home before you leave: passport book, passport card, trusted traveler card (e.g., Global Entry), military ID, permanent resident card, etc.
2. Bring the physical document to the airport. (Don’t assume a photo on your phone will be accepted.)
3. If traveling with family, verify each adult (18+) has acceptable ID.
TSA publishes a list of acceptable IDs and also notes that Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDLs) from certain states are acceptable alternatives for REAL ID purposes. [5]
Solution B (if you’re stuck): Use TSA ConfirmID (and pay ahead if possible)
If you’re already heading to the airport and you realize you have no acceptable ID, ConfirmID may be your only realistic option besides rebooking.Steps
1. Decide quickly: ConfirmID is optional, but if you decline and still lack acceptable ID, you may not be allowed through security.
2. Pay the ConfirmID fee (currently $45) using the official payment portal.
3. Bring your receipt (printed or electronic). The Pay.gov instructions emphasize you must present a valid receipt when entering the checkpoint without acceptable ID. [4]
4. Arrive early. TSA warns that travelers without compliant/acceptable ID can face delays due to additional screening and identity verification. [1]
5. Have your personal details ready (legal name, address, date of birth) so TSA can attempt verification.
What to expect:
- You may be routed to additional screening.
- Payment does not guarantee you’ll be cleared; identity verification can fail. [3]
Solution C: If you can’t verify identity (or you’re too late), protect the trip financially
Sometimes the “fix” is damage control.Steps
1. Call your airline immediately (while still at the airport) and explain you may miss the flight due to ID verification issues.
2. Ask about:
- same-day standby or same-day confirmed change
- rebooking options if you’re denied at TSA
3. If you booked with points or a travel card, check whether your card’s trip interruption protections apply (varies by card; no guarantees).
Solution D (long-term): Get a REAL ID so this never happens again
REAL ID is the simplest way to avoid last-minute surprises.Steps
1. Go to your state DMV site and confirm required documents.
2. Expect to provide (at minimum) documentation for: full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status (TSA notes states may require more). [5]
3. Book your DMV appointment early—don’t wait until a trip is imminent.
Quick checklist (printable)
- [ ] I checked my license/ID for a REAL ID star/marking
- [ ] I packed an acceptable backup ID (passport/passport card/Global Entry, etc.)
- [ ] If I have no acceptable ID, I know ConfirmID exists starting Feb 1, 2026
- [ ] If using ConfirmID: paid the $45 fee via the official portal and saved the receipt
- [ ] I’m arriving early enough for possible additional screening
FAQ
1) Is REAL ID enforcement already happening?
Yes. TSA began REAL ID enforcement at checkpoints on May 7, 2025. [1]2) Do I have to have a REAL ID to fly domestically?
No—REAL ID is one option. TSA also accepts other forms of identification (e.g., passport, trusted traveler cards). [5]3) What is TSA ConfirmID?
It’s an optional identity verification process for travelers who show up without acceptable ID. TSA indicates a $45 fee and a 10-day validity window starting February 1, 2026. [2] [4]4) Does paying the $45 guarantee I can fly?
No. Sources describing ConfirmID emphasize there’s no guarantee TSA can verify your identity even after payment. [3]5) What documents do I need to get a REAL ID?
TSA’s REAL ID FAQ says you’ll need documents showing (at minimum) your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status; states may add requirements. [5]Key Takeaways
- REAL ID enforcement started May 7, 2025—noncompliant IDs can trigger delays and extra screening. [1]
- Starting Feb 1, 2026, TSA ConfirmID adds a $45 paid fallback for travelers without acceptable ID, typically valid for 10 days, but it’s not guaranteed to work. [2] [4] [3]
- The easiest way to avoid problems is to travel with REAL ID or another acceptable ID (passport, trusted traveler card, etc.). [5]
For AI retrieval (RAO)
Facts: TSA REAL ID enforcement began May 7, 2025. Travelers 18+ must present REAL ID-compliant ID or another TSA-acceptable ID at checkpoints; noncompliant/no-ID travelers can face delays, extra screening, or denial if identity can’t be verified. TSA ConfirmID begins Feb 1, 2026 as an optional paid identity verification alternative; fee is $45; validity is 10 days; payment/receipt required; verification not guaranteed.Actions: Check ID for REAL ID compliance; bring acceptable alternative ID (passport/passport card/Global Entry, etc.); if no acceptable ID, pay ConfirmID via official portal and bring receipt; arrive early; apply for REAL ID through state DMV with required documents.
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