Flying out of SC airports will soon cost extra without a REAL ID. Here’s when, how much
South Carolina travelers who don’t have a REAL ID, passport or another TSA-approved form of identification could soon face extra costs – and longer wait times – at the airport.
Beginning Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration will require passengers without an acceptable form of ID to pay a $45 fee to undergo additional identity verification through TSA ConfirmID, a new federal screening system.
Here’s what to know about getting your REAL ID to avoid the $45 fee at the airport.
What is the $45 TSA ConfirmID fee?
Starting Feb. 1, passengers arriving at TSA security checkpoints without a REAL ID or other acceptable identification will have the option to use TSA ConfirmID, which TSA describes as a “modernized alternative identity verification system.”
The $45 fee covers 10 days of TSA ConfirmID use, but TSA says there is no guarantee they can verify your identity.
Passengers who choose not to use ConfirmID and lack acceptable ID may not be allowed through security and could miss their flight.
TSA says more than 94% of travelers already use a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification, but those who do not should expect increased wait times.
REAL ID deadline: What changed in 2025
As of May 7, 2025, non-REAL ID-compliant state driver’s licenses and IDs are no longer accepted at airport security checkpoints.
That means starting Feb. 1, 2026 travelers with no REAL ID, passport or other approved ID will pay a $45 fee and adhere to additional screening.
How to tell if your license is a REAL ID
A gold star in the upper corner of your South Carolina driver’s license or ID card indicates it is REAL ID-compliant.
If you’re unsure, check with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. TSA says that temporary driver’s licenses are not acceptable for TSA screening.
Acceptable forms of ID at TSA checkpoints
TSA accepts many forms of identification, including:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID
- U.S. passport or passport card
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID (including dependents)
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Federally recognized Tribal Nation photo IDs (including Enhanced Tribal Cards)
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Foreign government-issued passport
- Canadian provincial driver’s license
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
- USCIS Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
Mobile and digital ID options are also accepted, such as Apple Digital ID, Google ID Pass and CLEAR ID.
A physical driver’s license is still required for driving and some other purposes.
How to get a REAL ID in SC
Residents who need a REAL ID must provide specific documentation when visiting a South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles location.
This includes original or government-issued copies of all documents proving identity, such as a birth certificate or unexpired U.S. Passport, two proofs of your current physical South Carolina address, your social security number and proof of legal name changes, if applicable.
South Carolinians who received their first S.C. license during or after November 2010 may be eligible to purchase a REAL ID online.
To check eligibility, visit the SCDMV’s webpage and enter your license number, date of birth and Social Security number. If eligible, you can pay online with a debit or credit card, and the REAL ID will be mailed to the address on file
If you’re not eligible online – or if you’re a first-time license or ID applicant – you must visit an SCDMV branch in person with all required documents.
Most regular South Carolina licenses cost $25.
