TSA Launches Paid ID Rescue for Forgetful Airport Travelers
Published Date: 12/3/2025
Notice
Summary
Starting December 3, 2025, TSA is rolling out TSA Confirm.ID, a new program for travelers who forget their ID at airport security. If you don’t have a REAL ID or passport, you can use this service for a $45 fee to verify your identity and keep your trip on track. This fee helps cover TSA’s costs for running the program smoothly and safely.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
New $45 TSA Confirm.ID user fee
Starting December 3, 2025, TSA is charging a $45.00 fee for each person who chooses to use the TSA Confirm.ID identity-verification service. The fee is set per individual and applies for each 10-day use period (provided the individual can successfully verify their identity for each use during that 10-day period).
Fee is non‑refundable regardless of outcome
TSA will not refund the $45.00 fee, in whole or in part, whether your identity is verified or not, or if you are unable to enter the sterile area based on the verification results. Paying and registering does not create any refund right.
Payment doesn’t guarantee entry or avoid delays
Registering for TSA Confirm.ID and paying the fee does not guarantee that your identity will be verified or that you will be allowed into the sterile area; you may still face additional screening or delays. TSA expressly warns that payment and registration do not ensure travel will proceed without further checks.
Alternate ID check for travelers without REAL ID
TSA Confirm.ID is a modernized alternative identity verification option for individuals who arrive at the checkpoint without an Acceptable Form of Identification (AFOID) such as a REAL ID or passport; individuals may choose to use the program to attempt to access the sterile area. The program is fee-funded and registration/collection of the fee will begin when TSA opens registration at TSA.gov.
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