RDU warns travelers of $45 ID verification fee starting Feb. 1

Starting Feb. 1, 2026, passengers flying through Raleigh-Durham International Airport who do not present a REAL ID-compliant credential or other acceptable federal identification at TSA checkpoints will be required to pay a $45 fee for identity verification under TSA’s modernized alternative identity verification process, known as TSA ConfirmID. The fee must be paid online via pay.gov and travelers will need to show proof of payment before they can proceed through the security checkpoint.

TSA began enforcing REAL ID requirements at airports in May 2025, but the formalized ConfirmID process and the associated fee will take effect next month. Under the new procedure, passengers without compliant ID will be pulled out of line for additional screening and enrolled in a 10-day travel verification window covered by the $45 payment. RDU Federal Security Director Jennifer Gordon and North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles officials are advising residents to schedule DMV appointments and obtain REAL ID credentials now to avoid added expense and travel delays.

The change affects routine travel patterns for commuters, families, and business travelers who use RDU for short regional flights and longer connections. For local residents, the new fee could increase the cost of last-minute travel and add minutes or hours to airport wait times depending on checkpoint staffing and passenger volume. Travelers who arrive unprepared may miss flights or face stress navigating extra screening steps while managing luggage and time-sensitive plans.

For Wake County voters and civic participants who travel for work, court, or public meetings, the policy introduces a small but concrete barrier that could compound existing access issues. Obtaining REAL ID is a one-time process that requires an in-person DMV visit and documentation; RDU and DMV officials emphasize scheduling appointments well before planned travel to avoid peak demand at offices and longer processing times.

Practical steps for local travelers include: confirm whether your current driver license or identification is REAL ID-compliant, schedule and keep a DMV appointment if you need an upgrade, and if you must travel without compliant ID be prepared to pay the $45 fee via pay.gov and to present proof of payment at the checkpoint. Expect lines to be longer in early February as the new process is implemented and more travelers adjust to enforcement.

The takeaway? If you fly out of RDU, don’t leave your ID to chance. Our two cents? Book your NCDMV appointment now and check your ID before heading to the airport to avoid a $45 surprise and extra time in line.