Louisville, January 21, 2026
Starting February 1, travelers at Louisville International Airport without a REAL ID will need to pay a $45 fee for identity verification via the TSA’s ConfirmID system. This new process allows travelers to verify their identity at security checkpoints if they lack acceptable identification. Passengers are encouraged to pay online before arrival to minimize delays. Various acceptable forms of ID can help avoid this fee, promoting compliance with the REAL ID Act’s requirements for enhanced security.
Louisville, Kentucky: TSA Introduces $45 Fee for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1
Louisville, Kentucky – Starting February 1, 2026, travelers departing from Louisville International Airport without a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification will be required to pay a $45 fee to use the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) ConfirmID system for identity verification at security checkpoints.
Details of the TSA ConfirmID Process
The TSA ConfirmID system allows passengers without an acceptable ID to verify their identity before reaching the security checkpoint. This process involves a fee of $45, which covers a 10-day travel period. Travelers are encouraged to complete the payment online prior to arriving at the airport to minimize potential delays. Upon arrival, passengers must present a copy of their receipt to TSA officers for verification. The ConfirmID process may take between 10 to 15 minutes, but could extend up to 30 minutes or longer, depending on the circumstances.
Acceptable Forms of Identification
To avoid the $45 fee and streamline the travel experience, passengers are advised to present one of the following acceptable forms of identification:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID card
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Federally recognized tribal-issued photo ID
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Travelers are encouraged to check with their state department of motor vehicles to confirm if their ID complies with REAL ID standards. Temporary driver’s licenses are not accepted for TSA screening under REAL ID rules.
Background on REAL ID Implementation
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005, established minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The act mandates that, starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler aged 18 and older must present a REAL ID or another form of acceptable identification to board a domestic flight. This measure aims to enhance security and protect travelers nationwide. Kentucky residents can obtain a REAL ID at driver’s licensing agencies across the state. For more information on obtaining a REAL ID, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website.
Recommendations for Travelers
To avoid the $45 fee and potential delays, travelers are strongly advised to ensure they have an acceptable form of identification before arriving at the airport. If you do not have a REAL ID, consider upgrading your driver’s license or obtaining another acceptable form of ID as soon as possible. For detailed information on acceptable forms of identification and the REAL ID program, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the TSA ConfirmID system?
The TSA ConfirmID system is a modernized alternative identity verification process that allows travelers without an acceptable form of ID to verify their identity at security checkpoints. This process involves a $45 fee and covers a 10-day travel period.
How can I avoid the $45 fee?
To avoid the $45 fee, ensure you present an acceptable form of identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, U.S. passport, or other TSA-approved IDs, at the security checkpoint.
What forms of identification are accepted by the TSA?
Acceptable forms of identification include REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses, U.S. passports, DHS trusted traveler cards, and other TSA-approved IDs. For a complete list, visit the TSA’s website.
How do I obtain a REAL ID in Kentucky?
Kentucky residents can obtain a REAL ID at driver’s licensing agencies across the state. For more information on obtaining a REAL ID, visit the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet’s website.
What should I do if I don’t have an acceptable form of ID?
If you do not have an acceptable form of ID, you can use the TSA ConfirmID system by paying the $45 fee online prior to arriving at the airport. This process may take additional time, so plan accordingly.
Key Features of the TSA ConfirmID Process
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fee | $45 for a 10-day travel period |
| Verification Time | 10 to 15 minutes; may extend up to 30 minutes or longer |
| Online Payment | Encouraged prior to arriving at the airport to minimize delays |
| Acceptable IDs | REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, U.S. passport, DHS trusted traveler cards, and other TSA-approved IDs |
| Temporary Licenses | Not accepted for TSA screening under REAL ID rules |
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