In May 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officially began enforcing the federal REAL ID requirement for U.S. domestic travel. Since then, compliance has steadily increased — but not everyone has made the switch. This month, TSA introduced a new option: ConfirmID.
This modernized identity verification program is designed for travelers who arrive at the airport without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport. It provides a way through security, but it comes with a few important caveats. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is TSA ConfirmID?
ConfirmID is a paid identity verification option for travelers who do not have compliant identification. Under the program, travelers will:
- Pay a $45 one-time fee
- Provide basic information (including name, birthday, address, travel dates)
- Receive a digital or printed receipt used to proceed through airport security
The receipt is valid for 10 days beginning on the “travel start date” disclosed during registration. That window is designed to cover both legs of a typical round-trip journey, meaning most travelers won’t need to pay twice for short trips.
Why Is TSA Offering This?
According to recent TSA data, between 95% and 99% of travelers now arrive at airport checkpoints with a REAL ID or another compliant identification. ConfirmID is intended for the small percentage who do not. The program was also created to strengthen identity verification and further enhance aviation security by closing the long-standing gaps in ID standards.
Additionally, TSA officials have stated that the $45 fee is meant to fully recover the cost of manually verifying non-compliant travelers — a cost that has historically been absorbed by taxpayers. Under ConfirmID, that cost shifts to the individual traveler who has not yet obtained compliant identification.
Can You Complete ConfirmID at the Airport?
Yes. However, travelers will typically need to leave the security line to complete registration and the verification process, then return to the end of the line once they receive their Confirm ID receipt.
Identity verification generally takes 10 to 15 minutes, though it can extend to 30 minutes or more depending on circumstances. Waiting to start the ConfirmID process at the airport could mean additional wait time and unnecessary stress, especially during peak travel periods. For business travelers or those with tight connections, that may not be a risk worth taking.
Instead, TSA strongly suggests completing the process online in advance so travelers can pass through security more quickly. To register online or get more information, visit TSA’s official website below:
Is ConfirmID a Replacement for REAL ID?
No. ConfirmID is not a true substitute for a REAL ID-compliant license or carrying a passport. For travelers who occasionally fly or who have forgotten/lost their compliant identification, it can serve as a good backup plan.
However, it’s not meant to be used as a long-term solution. It adds additional fees, extra processing time, potential delays and friction on travel day. Before your next departure, we recommend making the switch and obtaining a REAL ID. If you need a refresher on REAL ID and what documents are required, you can read our original article below:
👉 The New REAL ID Requirement for U.S. Domestic Travel
The Bottom Line
ConfirmID provides flexibility. If you realize you don’t have a REAL ID or passport before a trip, you won’t be totally out of luck. With ConfirmID, TSA created a temporary workaround to verify your identity and keep your travel plans intact.
That said, ConfirmID is not a replacement for the REAL ID. Plus, paying an extra $45, carving out additional time for registration and potentially waiting 30 minutes at the airport isn’t ideal to start a trip. Upgrading to a REAL ID remains the most efficient and cost-effective choice.
Either way, knowing your options before you travel makes all the difference.
