TSA to charge $45 identity verification fee for travelers without REAL ID starting Feb. 1

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

PADUCAH, Ky., (KBSI)— Travelers flying out of Barkley Regional Airport are advised that beginning Feb. 1, the Transportation Security Administration will charge a $45 identity verification fee for passengers who arrive at a security checkpoint without a REAL ID–compliant form of identification.

The fee covers additional identity verification required before a passenger can be cleared to fly. Airport officials said the change is not expected to cause significant delays at Barkley Regional Airport, though larger airports may experience longer wait times as the policy is implemented.

To assist travelers, TSA has established a dedicated podium at Barkley Regional Airport for passengers who need identity verification or assistance with the fee.

Officials noted the fee is nonrefundable and the verification process may add 10 to 30 minutes at the security checkpoint. Payment of the fee and completion of the verification process do not guarantee clearance to fly, as final screening decisions are made by TSA based on security requirements.

Passengers may still fly without a REAL ID, but officials strongly recommend bringing a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a U.S. passport, military ID or Global Entry card, to avoid additional fees and delays.

More information on REAL ID requirements and acceptable identification is available on the TSA website.