The Transportation Safety Administration has filed a plan on the Federal Register that would allow TSA to charge an $18 fee when they clear a passenger to fly without Real ID.
That doesn’t mean they’re offering to skip Real ID, which has been enforced since last May after more than a decade of delays; it’s meant to deal with those passengers who show up without Real ID but with some form of ID that TSA can verify. Since May, TSA has been clearing those passengers on a case-by-case basis and subjecting them to closer scrutiny at screening.
Now, as part of what it calls a “modernized alternative identity verification program,” TSA would use high-tech means to confirm those travelers’ identities—and charge them for the cost. They may also be subject to additional biometric screening.
While most travelers have now come up with Real ID, including enhanced state licenses, passports, military ID or Global Entry card, a certain number have continued to resist and rely on other means; perhaps the idea of a fee every time they fly will overcome their reluctance.
UPDATE:
It appears that TSA’s plans have taken several steps beyond the initial reported plan.
The agency has now announced a plan that will take effect February 1st, with a $45 fee. Travelers will be asked to upload identity documents ahead of time to a coming-soon TSA Confirm.ID website to receive advance approval, which is valid for 10 days.
It will also be possible to complete the procedure at the airport, but with possible delays of a half hour or more.