Picture this: you’re at the airport, coffee in hand, feeling on top of the world… and then TSA takes one look at your ID and says, “This isn’t acceptable.”
Starting February 1, 2026, TSA says travelers who don’t present an acceptable form of ID (including a non–REAL ID driver’s license) will be referred to an optional, fee-based identity verification process called TSA ConfirmID. The fee is $45, and it covers a 10-day travel period.
Here’s the part most people miss: this isn’t a “skip-the-REAL-ID” hack. It’s a backup option—and TSA expects delays for anyone who has to use it.
The quick backstory (in plain English)
- As of May 7, 2025, TSA began enforcing REAL ID rules at airport checkpoints—meaning standard, non-compliant state IDs aren’t accepted for domestic flights anymore.
- TSA says most travelers already have acceptable ID (they’ve cited 94%).
- For the remaining folks who show up without acceptable ID, ConfirmID is the new paid “Plan B” beginning February 1, 2026.
What is TSA ConfirmID?
According to TSA, ConfirmID is a modernized identity verification process you can use if you arrive without an acceptable form of ID. The $45 fee covers a 10-day window, which is helpful for round-trip travel—but TSA notes the process may take longer than standard screening, and you should expect delays.
Also important: a temporary/paper driver’s license is not acceptable ID at the checkpoint.
The easiest way to avoid the $45 fee (and the stress)
1) Check your ID today
If your driver’s license doesn’t have the REAL ID marking (often a star), assume you need to verify with your state DMV. TSA specifically encourages travelers to schedule a DMV appointment ASAP.
2) Travel with one of these acceptable IDs instead
You do not have to use a driver’s license if you have another acceptable option. TSA’s acceptable ID list includes (among others):
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID
- Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL/EID) (only certain states)
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Global Entry / NEXUS / SENTRI / FAST trusted traveler cards
- Military ID, Permanent Resident Card, and several other federal/tribal IDs
(If you want a simple “set it and forget it” option for domestic flights: many travelers like the passport card because it’s wallet-sized—just remember it doesn’t replace a passport book for international air travel.)
3) Give yourself extra time at the airport if you’re unsure
TSA expects increased wait times for anyone who doesn’t present acceptable ID, especially once ConfirmID referrals begin.
My “Easy Breezy” Suggestion:
If you’re flying in 2026, I’d love for you to make this your new habit:
Before you leave for the airport, do the “Keys–Phone–Wallet–ID” check. And if your ID situation is at all questionable, toss your passport (or passport card) in your bag.
Because the best travel days are the ones where your biggest problem is choosing snacks, rather than solving surprises at security.
Want me to help you stay ahead of the details?
When I help clients plan trips, I’m happy to include a quick document check reminder (REAL ID/passport timing, names matching reservations, and a pre-flight checklist). Send me a message when you’re ready to book, or if you want a second set of eyes on what counts as acceptable ID for your next flight.
Want to learn more about this from the TSA Website? If so – check it out here.