TSA Confirm.ID is a fallback ID verification program launched Feb 1, 2026. Travelers without a REAL ID, passport, or other accepted ID can pay $45 to verify their identity for a 10-day travel window. It takes 10-30 extra minutes per checkpoint and is non-refundable. Avoid it by carrying a US passport (works for both domestic and international).
Starting February 1, 2026, TSA introduced Confirm.ID — a fallback program for passengers without REAL ID or other accepted identification.
What is TSA Confirm.ID?
An identity-verification service at TSA checkpoints. If you show up without a REAL ID or other accepted ID, you can pay $45 to have TSA verify your identity through database checks. They confirm your identity, then let you through screening.
How Much Does It Cost?
- $45 non-refundable fee
- Covers a 10-day window (round-trip travel OK)
- Not a credit-card-rewards bonus — pure cost
- Not waived for military, Global Entry, etc.
How Long Does It Take?
TSA says 10-15 minutes on average, possibly up to 30. Arrive at the airport 2 hours early for domestic, 3 hours for international.
How to Avoid the Fee
Bring any of these instead:
- REAL ID-compliant state driver's license (gold/black star)
- US passport book — $130, works forever (until expiration), reimbursed by premium credit cards
- US passport card — $30 only, works for domestic flights too
- Global Entry card — $120 for 5 years, includes Customs benefit too
- Enhanced driver's license (5 states issue these)
Should You Get a Passport Card Just for Domestic Flights?
If you don't have a passport AND you can't easily get a REAL ID — yes. The $30 passport card:
- Costs less than a single Confirm.ID payment
- Works at TSA checkpoints for all domestic flights
- Also works for land/sea entry to Mexico and Canada
- Valid 10 years
What if I'm Stuck Without ID on Travel Day?
- Arrive 3 hours before your flight
- Go to the TSA checkpoint and ask for Confirm.ID
- Provide name, address, and answer identity-verification questions
- Pay $45 with credit card
- Wait 10-30 minutes for clearance
- Proceed through screening (likely with extra checks)
Booking? We Flag ID Requirements
Our agents at +1 (833) 546-3547 verify your ID situation at booking — including any international connections that require a passport. Don't get caught at the airport.