Starting Sunday, Travelers Without REAL ID Must Pay to Board Flights
Starting Sunday, February 1, travelers without a valid ID will face a new fee of $45 imposed by the TSA for identity verification at airport security. This fee aims to assist those who may have lost their ID or lack an acceptable identification document.
New TSA Fee Implementation
Eric Gunthier, a TSA spokesperson, explained the rationale behind the fee. It is designed to aid individuals who either have misplaced their ID or do not possess an acceptable form of identification. Gunthier emphasized that this approach enables more people to navigate through security checkpoints without disruption.
Statistics on ID Usage
- Over 94% of Alaskans reportedly have an acceptable form of ID.
- Approximately half of the state’s population has obtained a REAL ID, as per state records.
Payment Process
Travelers are encouraged to visit the TSA website to verify if their ID is acceptable. If an individual’s ID is not listed, they must pay the $45 fee through the TSA website and bring proof of payment to the airport. Gunthier mentioned that check-in signage featuring QR codes will be available to help travelers make this payment via their mobile devices.
Payment Validity
Once made, the payment is valid for ten days. Should travelers wish to fly again after this period, they will need to repeat the payment process. The funds collected from this fee will contribute to covering administrative costs related to the new program.
Obtaining a REAL ID
Gunthier suggested that the most efficient way for travelers is to get an acceptable ID. The Alaska DMV continues to issue REAL IDs, with a fee of $40 for standard licenses and $120 for commercial licenses. Applicants must also present various documents, for which a checklist is available on the DMV website.
