Traveling Without a REAL ID: TSA ConfirmID Offers a Temporary Solution for Air Travelers
The federally-mandated REAL ID requirement has begun its 4-month rollout process, making air travel without one nearly impossible. However, for those who are unable to obtain a REAL ID in time, there is an alternative solution to board a commercial flight. People who do not possess a REAL ID or a passport can opt to use TSA ConfirmID by paying a $45 fee on the spot to get through the screening process. This fee is intended to ensure that non-compliant travelers cover the cost of processing without acceptable IDs. Travelers can pay the fee in advance online at TSA.Gov/ConfirmID or at the airport, although the latter option may result in longer wait times. It is important to note that this $45 fee workaround will only be available until May 5, 2027, after which compliant REAL IDs or acceptable alternatives will be strictly required for air travel.