TSA ConfirmID & Acceptable ID — If You Can't Fly Without a Real ID
Since 7 May 2025, a standard (non-Real-ID) state driver's licence or ID is no longer accepted for US domestic air travel. If you turn up without an acceptable ID, you are not automatically turned away: TSA offers ConfirmID, a paid identity-verification option available from 1 February 2026 for $45. Verified against TSA, September 2026.
Who needs an acceptable ID
- ☐ Travellers aged 18 and over must present an acceptable form of identification at the checkpoint.
- ☐ A Real ID driver's licence or state ID is marked by a star (and/or flag) or the word “Enhanced”.
- ☐ A valid passport or other document on TSA's acceptable list also works.
The Real ID date that catches people out
From 7 May 2025, a state-issued driver's licence or identification card that is not Real ID compliant is no longer accepted as identification for US domestic flights and certain federal facilities. If your licence predates Real ID, check for the star or flag marker before you travel.
If you arrive without an acceptable ID: ConfirmID
- ☐ From 1 February 2026, you can choose to pay $45 to use TSA ConfirmID.
- ☐ ConfirmID verifies your identity so you can proceed through screening when you do not have an acceptable ID.
- ☐ It is a paid option — not a replacement for carrying valid ID as your normal practice.
Expired documents: the two-year grace
TSA currently accepts identification that has expired within the last 2 years. That grace is a policy position, not a guarantee, so do not rely on it in place of renewing your documents.
Before you fly
- ☐ Find the star/flag or “Enhanced” marker on your licence or ID.
- ☐ Check the expiry — within the last 2 years is currently accepted, but renew if you can.
- ☐ If you have no acceptable ID, budget for the $45 ConfirmID.
- ☐ A passport is a reliable fallback — see the validity rules and the digital file requirements if you are renewing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fly with a non-Real-ID licence?
No — since 7 May 2025 a state driver's licence or ID that is not Real ID compliant is not accepted for US domestic air travel. Look for the star, flag or “Enhanced” marker.
What is TSA ConfirmID?
It is a paid identity-verification option, available from 1 February 2026 for $45, for travellers who do not have an acceptable ID.
Who must show ID at the checkpoint?
Travellers aged 18 and over must present an acceptable form of identification.
Can I use an expired ID?
TSA currently accepts identification that expired within the last 2 years, but this is a policy position rather than a guarantee.
What counts as a Real ID?
A driver's licence or state ID carrying a star (and/or flag) or the word “Enhanced”.
Is ConfirmID a substitute for a passport?
No. It is a paid verification path when you lack an acceptable ID; a valid passport remains a standard acceptable document.
Related: renewing instead? See passport validity and the top rejection reasons for the photo that goes with it. Bring a compliant photo with the passport photo checker.