TSA’s New $45 Fee Will Hit Forgetful Travelers Starting Next Month
The fee starts February 1, but payment doesn’t guarantee security clearance.
Starting February 1, the TSA will charge travelers $45 to attempt security clearance without a REAL ID or passport through its new ConfirmID program. But even the fee doesn’t guarantee you’ll actually make it through security, and you should expect significant delays.
The fee aims to shift costs from taxpayers to non-compliant travelers, according to TSA officials. The REAL ID Act passed in 2005 with an original 2008 deadline that’s been delayed repeatedly over nearly two decades.
But now it’s official. For business travelers who rely on tight schedules, the message is clear: Get your REAL ID now. The requirement took effect in May for all U.S. air travelers 18 and older, identifiable by a gold star in the upper right corner of compliant licenses.
Sign up for the Entrepreneur Daily newsletter to get the news and resources you need to know today to help you run your business better. Get it in your inbox.
Starting February 1, the TSA will charge travelers $45 to attempt security clearance without a REAL ID or passport through its new ConfirmID program. But even the fee doesn’t guarantee you’ll actually make it through security, and you should expect significant delays.
The fee aims to shift costs from taxpayers to non-compliant travelers, according to TSA officials. The REAL ID Act passed in 2005 with an original 2008 deadline that’s been delayed repeatedly over nearly two decades.
But now it’s official. For business travelers who rely on tight schedules, the message is clear: Get your REAL ID now. The requirement took effect in May for all U.S. air travelers 18 and older, identifiable by a gold star in the upper right corner of compliant licenses.
Sign up for the Entrepreneur Daily newsletter to get the news and resources you need to know today to help you run your business better. Get it in your inbox.
