The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has decided to charge travelers who attempt to board a flight without a REAL ID or other approved form of identification a $45 fee starting February 1st.
After January 31st, any individual over the age of 18 who attempts to board a domestic flight without a REAL ID will be required to pay a fee or be unable to pass through TSA and board the flight.
According to a statement, RDU Director of Federal Security Jennifer Gordon said, “Those who do not wish to pay the $45 fee for upgraded ID verification still have time to obtain a Real ID compliant driver’s license or other acceptable form of identification.
“Identity verification is a critical part of transportation security. While most passengers provide acceptable identification, it is our responsibility to confirm that passengers are who they say they are. Ensuring the safety of the traveling public remains our highest priority,” he added.
List of acceptable forms of ID
- REAL ID – Driver’s license or state-issued photo ID from the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent)
2. State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced Driver’s License (EID)
5. DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
6. US Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
7. Permanent residence card
9. Acceptable photo identification issued by a federally recognized tribal nation or Indian tribe, including Enhanced Tribal Cards (ETCs)
11. Passport issued by a foreign government
12. Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
13. Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
14. US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization (I-766)
15. US Merchant Mariner’s Credentials
16. Veteran’s Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Meanwhile, North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Paul Tine said the state has been issuing REAL IDs for nearly nine years and that more than five million residents, or about 58%, already own one. As the new fee went into effect, he encouraged those who do not already have a REAL ID to visit NCREALID.gov to determine if they need one and understand the required documentation.
He added that the DMV has made the process more accessible, noting that all driver’s license offices now accept appointments throughout the day until capacity is reached, with appointment times that can be booked up to seven days in advance and are renewed every weekday.