Starting February 1, 2026, flying from Virginia airports will change. Travelers who are not ready could pay more money. A new rule says you must have a REAL ID. If you do not have a REAL ID or a passport, you must pay a $45 fee. This fee is for a special identity check by the TSA. This is for all Virginia airports like Dulles (IAD), Reagan National (DCA), and Richmond (RIC). You need to know this rule to avoid extra cost and delays.
Details of the New $45 Fee and TSA Procedures
The $45 fee pays for a system called TSA ConfirmID. This system checks your identity if you do not have the right ID.
- You should pay the fee online at the Pay.gov website before you go to the airport.
- After you pay, it is good for 10 days. This covers your trip there and your trip back if it is within 10 days.
- Even if you pay, you will wait longer. The manual check can take 15 to 30 minutes or more when it is busy.
Remember, paying the fee does not mean you can fly. If TSA cannot prove who you are, they will not let you on the plane.
Understanding REAL ID Requirements and Travel Preparedness
The REAL ID law makes driver’s licenses more secure. You need one for easy domestic air travel now. You can know if you have a REAL ID by looking for a gold star in the top corner of your license. If your Virginia license says “Federal Limits Apply” or has no star, it is not good for flying under this new rule.
How to Avoid the Fee: A Step-by-Step Guide
To avoid the $45 fee, get a REAL ID from the Virginia DMV.
- Get Your Papers: You need one paper to prove who you are (like a birth certificate). You need two papers to prove you live in Virginia (like a utility bill). You also need your Social Security card.
- Make an Appointment: Go to the Virginia DMV website to book a time. You can often upload your papers online first.
You can also use other IDs to avoid the fee. These include:
- A U.S. Passport
- A Global Entry card
- A Permanent Resident Card
- A U.S. Military ID
Impact on Major Virginia Airport Hubs
This new fee will affect busy airports the most. Travelers at Dulles and Reagan National in Northern Virginia must be careful. These airports already have long security lines. Other airports like Norfolk (ORF) will also follow this rule starting February 1. Check your ID now. If it does not have a star, you need to get a REAL ID or be ready to pay $45.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the $45 fee a one-time charge?
The fee is good for 10 days. If your trip home is more than 10 days after you leave, you might have to pay again.
Can I pay the fee at the airport?
Yes, but it is a bad idea. If you do not pay online, you will have to scan a QR code at the airport. This will make your wait very long and you could miss your flight.
Does this apply to children?
No. Children under 18 do not need ID when flying with an adult inside the United States.
Interactive Tip: Check Your Compliance
- Look for the Star: Check the top right corner of your driver’s license.
- Check the Date: If your license is expiring soon, get a REAL ID when you renew it.
- Pre-Pay if Needed: If you must travel soon and cannot get a REAL ID, go to the TSA website to pay the fee before your trip.
Disclaimer
The news information presented here is based on available reports and reliable sources. Readers should cross-check updates from official news outlets and the TSA’s official website.