Starting February 1, travelers flying out of North Carolina without a REAL ID will face a $45 fee. The charge covers use of TSA’s new identity verification system, TSA ConfirmID, and applies for a 10-day travel period. This means a single payment can cover both departure and return flights within that timeframe.
According to TSA, the fee is intended to cover the cost of the new TSA ConfirmID system. Travelers still have time to obtain a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification to avoid the charge. TSA officials emphasized that verifying identity is a key part of transportation security, ensuring that passengers are properly identified and the traveling public remains safe.
North Carolina launched its REAL ID program nearly nine years ago, and over half of residents now have compliant identification. “North Carolina has been issuing REAL IDs for nearly nine years, and more than 5 million residents – about 58% – already have one,” North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Paul Tine said in a press release. He encouraged the remaining 42% of residents to visit NCREALID.gov to learn about the ID requirements. The DMV now accepts walk-ins on business days and allows appointments to be booked up to a week in advance.
Travelers unsure if their ID meets requirements should check the list of acceptable forms on the TSA website, which includes permanent resident cards, U.S. passports, and enhanced driver’s licenses, among others. Those without a compliant ID will need to pay the $45 TSA ConfirmID fee before flying after February 1. Travelers must present the receipt—printed or digital—along with another form of identification to the Transportation Security Officer at the checkpoint. TSA notes that about 90% of passengers already use a REAL ID or approved alternative, so non-compliant travelers may experience longer wait times once ConfirmID is in effect.
For more information on REAL ID and the upcoming changes, travelers can text TSA at 275-872 or reach out via Twitter at @AskTSA. Those planning to obtain a last-minute ID are advised to allow extra time, as DMV lines may be longer than airport security lines.
