Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez Shares What Travelers Need to Know About REAL ID and the New TSA Fee
Beginning February 1, travelers arriving at airport security checkpoints without a REAL ID or an accepted alternative form of identification are now required to pay a $45 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) ConfirmID fee.
The fee applies to adults 18 years of age and older and is part of TSA’s enhanced identity verification process for travelers who do not present compliant identification. This change reflects the full enforcement of the REAL ID Act, which has been federal law for nearly two decades and has been actively enforced for domestic air travel since last year.
What Is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a state-issued driver license or identification card that meets federal security standards. In Florida, REAL ID–compliant cards are marked with a star in the top corner of the license or ID.
Travelers who do not present a REAL ID or another TSA-approved form of identification will be required to complete additional identity verification and pay the ConfirmID fee before proceeding through airport security.
Why the $45 Fee Is Required
According to TSA, the ConfirmID fee covers the cost of alternate identity verification procedures that were previously absorbed by taxpayers. TSA has stated that there is no free option for travelers who arrive at security checkpoints without compliant identification.
The fee must be paid online prior to screening and is valid for a limited period tied to the traveler’s departure date. TSA also notes that identity verification is not guaranteed, and travelers whose identities cannot be confirmed may be denied boarding.
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID
In addition to a REAL ID–compliant driver license or ID card, TSA currently accepts several alternative forms of identification, including:
U.S. passport or U.S. passport card
Permanent resident card (Green Card)
Trusted Traveler cards, such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST
U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including those issued to dependents
Certain federally recognized tribal identification cards
Select approved digital IDs, as part of TSA’s ongoing testing programs
Because accepted identification options may change, travelers are encouraged to verify current requirements at tsa.gov/id before traveling.
How to Avoid Delays and Extra Costs
The simplest way to avoid additional screening, delays, and the $45 fee is to obtain a REAL ID in advance of travel. REAL ID services are available at all Miami-Dade County Tax Collector offices, where residents can upgrade their driver license or identification card.
Residents are encouraged to check their ID for the star before flying and plan ahead, particularly during peak travel seasons.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit mdctaxcollector.gov.
