Kearns Encourages Travelers to Upgrade Before Next Domestic Flight
Erie County, New York- Starting February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin enforcing a $45 identity-verification fee for passengers who attempt to fly without compliant identification. All travelers who do not present an acceptable for of a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or other accepted ID will be directed to TSA’s optional ConfirmID identity-verification process at check-in, before entering the security screening line.
TSA’s new identity-verification process is valid for a 10-day travel window. Meaning, if you pay the fee for your departure and return home within 10 days, the single $45 fee covers both flights. However, if your return flight is more than 10 days after your initial departure, you will be required to pay the $45 fee again for the return flight.
This change follows the full implementation of the REAL ID Act, which became mandatory on May 7, 2025. Since that date, passengers, 18 years and older, must present a REAL ID-compliant license or ID — or another acceptable form of identification — to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
In New York State, it’s easy to tell what type of ID you have by looking at the front of your license or non-driver ID. A REAL ID has a small black star in the upper or lower corner of the card. The Enhanced Driver License (EDL) version displays a U.S. flag icon. An EDL is also REAL ID compliant. A Standard (Not REAL ID Compliant) does not have a star or U.S. flag and clearly states “Not for Federal Purposes” at the top of the license or non-driver ID.
For Erie County residents, avoiding the TSA fee and potential airport delays is simple. You can upgrade to a REAL ID by visiting any Erie County Auto Bureau in person. To obtain a REAL ID, applicants must provide the following original documents: Proof of identity and date of birth, Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate or valid U.S. passport), lawful permanent residency or temporary lawful status in the U.S., Social Security card, Two proofs of New York State residence such as utility bill, bank or mortgage statement (P.O. Box not acceptable) as this address will be displayed on your document.
In addition, if the name on certified copy of birth certificate is different from current proof of identity, you must present a certified copy of marriage certificate(s), divorce decree(s) or name change document(s).
There is no additional cost to obtain a REAL ID beyond the standard license or ID fee. If you are renewing your license or applying for the first time, you receive a REAL ID at the same price as a standard credential. There is an additional $30 fee to upgrade to the Enhanced version.
Do not wait until you arrive at the airport to check your travel document. As TSA officials warn that travelers who wait until the last-minute risk long lines at security checkpoints, additional screening and delays, in addition to the new $45 verification fee. TSA’s list of acceptable forms of ID can be found at TSA.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.
I strongly encourage all residents, even those who fly only occasionally, to plan ahead before their next trip and schedule their REAL ID upgrade appointment now. Taking care of it ahead of time ensures smoother travel, saves money, eliminates delays and potentially miss flights. Traveling can already be stressful; there is no need to add unnecessary anxiety at the airport.
For appointments, locations, and more information, Erie County residents should visit the Erie County Clerk’s website at erie.gov/clerk or call the Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864.
