The United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that starting from February, passengers traveling on domestic flights within the United States without a “REAL ID” or other federally recognized identification will need to pay an additional $45 to cover the cost of security screening. This new paid identity verification process has been initiated to continue security screening and boarding for such passengers.
This new rule particularly impacts the elderly, new immigrants, and residents who have been accustomed to using a regular driver’s license from New York State to board flights. Over the years, many New York City residents have been used to flying domestically with just their regular driver’s license, but now this no longer meets federal identification standards, posing an increased risk for last-minute travel.
According to the TSA, passengers without a “REAL ID” can opt for the paid identity verification process called “TSA ConfirmID” at the airport, which involves a third-party system assisting in verifying their identity. However, the official statement emphasizes that paying does not guarantee a successful verification or smooth boarding process; if the verification fails, the fee will not be refunded. Even if approved, the verification is valid for a maximum of only 10 days, serving more as a temporary emergency measure and not suitable for frequent flyers.
During an interview with this news outlet, community leader Yu Jinshan pointed out that the application process for REAL ID has become more stringent, requiring documents like birth certificates, naturalization certificates, or lawful residency documents, as well as social security numbers and proof of address to clearly establish citizenship or legal residency. He stated that REAL ID is not just a travel document but an elevated form of identification, also serving as crucial proof of identity in case of encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Currently, only a REAL ID with a gold star in the upper right corner or federally recognized documents like a passport meet the identification requirements for domestic flights. However, many elderly individuals in the community still have not upgraded due to language barriers, cumbersome document preparations, or misconceptions such as thinking “REAL ID is not needed if not traveling abroad,” leading to delays or even cancellations of trips in case of sudden family visits, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances.
TSA is urging passengers to avoid additional costs and uncertainty at the airport by applying for a REAL ID through pre-scheduled appointments at the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) well in advance. Yu Jinshan also reiterates his call for the state government to set up mobile or temporary ID application centers in Chinatown and provide Chinese language assistance to ensure that residents, especially the elderly, can conveniently upgrade their identification documents nearby and be prepared for the new requirements.