Michigan flyers will see a new service available at airports across the U.S., called “TSA ConfirmID” — a $45 verification process for those without an acceptable Real ID.
On Sunday, Feb. 1, the “TSA ConfirmID” went into effect for domestic travel in the U.S., according to a U.S. Transportation Security Administration. The service is in response to the Real ID requirement, mandatory since May 2025.
“Those who do not want to pay the $45 fee for the modernized ID verification still have time to get their REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID,” the TSA’s Federal Security Director for Michigan, Reggie Stephens, said in a Jan. 15 release. “While most travelers provide acceptable identification, it is our responsibility to confirm that passengers are who they claim to be. ‘TSA ConfirmID’ is vital for strengthening security and protecting travelers nationwide, ensuring the safety of our skies and transportation systems.”
The service can take up to 30 minutes, though it may be completed and paid for online ahead of arriving at the airport.
Here’s what to know about “TSA ConfirmID,” and the acceptable forms of ID:
Is the ‘TSA ConfirmID,’ available at Michigan airports?
Yes. As of Feb. 1, TSA checkpoints in Michigan will offer a service to travelers who don’t have an ID that satisfies the law’s requirements. This $45 service is a “modernized alternative identity verification,” that takes 10-30 minutes. In addition, this service is usable without a fee for 10 days after the original payment.
How do I pay ‘TSA ConfirmID’ fee?
To use “TSA ConfirmID,” travelers may pay the $45 for themselves or for another traveler through Pay.gov using a valid bank account (ACH), debit card, credit card, Venmo or PayPal — cash is not an acceptable form of payment.
Do I have to use ‘TSA ConfirmID’?
No. The “TSA ConfirmID,” is an optional service for travelers who do not have an acceptable Real ID to show a TSA agent.
How do I pre-pay for ‘TSA ConfirmID’ online?
Travelers who already know their ID is not acceptable may pre-pay online for the “TSA ConfirmID” which will ask you to fill out a form, enter in payment information then submit.
Is my passport a Real ID? List of alternative forms of ID
Yes, a passport is considered a Real ID; in fact, there are several Real ID-compliant alternatives, according to TSA, including:
In addition, an Enhanced ID is compliant, meaning, if your ID card includes a star in a gold circle, the U.S. flag, or the word “ENHANCED,” at the top then it will be accepted as proof of identity to board the plane, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said.
What is the difference between a Real ID and an Enhanced ID?
“Michigan’s old license and ID design, which is being phased out by January 2029, features a star in a gold circle to indicate REAL ID compliance,” Michigan’s secretary of state said. “The state’s new license design features a star in a silhouette of Michigan. Both versions of the star are acceptable.”
Here are the two main differences between a standard Real ID and an enhanced ID:
A standard Real ID-compliant license will have only a star either in a gold circle, or in a silhouette of Michigan in the top right corner.
“State-issued Enhanced Driver’s Licenses and identification cards (EDL/EID) are designated as acceptable border-crossing documents by DHS under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative and are an acceptable alternative to a REAL ID for boarding a commercial aircraft, accessing federal facilities, and entering nuclear power plants,” the Department of Homeland Security said.
Five states that issue EDL/EIDs — Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and Washington.
Another difference is that the enhanced ID will allow some foreign travel while a simple Real ID license is only for use domestically.
What happens if I have an Enhanced ID, but it doesn’t have a star?
Enhanced IDs with a star or flag are automatically Real ID-compliant because they meet the Department of Homeland Security standards.
“According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, TSA agents at airports will recognize enhanced licenses or enhanced IDs as valid REAL ID documents, even without the star,” the Michigan secretary of state said.
How can you get Real ID in Michigan?
Book an appointment at your local Secretary of State office to update your ID. Make sure you have the following documents with you:
You can book an appointment online through the state’s website or call (888) 767-6424.
Who needs a Real ID in Michigan?
Anyone planning to board a domestic flight or access federal facilities, military bases or nuclear power plants needs a Real ID. International travel will continue to require a passport, which also serves as Real ID-compliant identification for domestic flights.
Children under 18 years old do not need a REAL ID for domestic flights. The TSA recommends reviewing the airport’s unaccompanied minors policies.
When did Real ID take effect?
On May 7, 2025, Michigan residents were officially required to present a Real ID to fly domestically and at federal facilities, military bases or nuclear power plants per the new travel standards of the REAL ID Act of 2005 passed by Congress.
The law means certain federal agencies, like the TSA or the Department of Homeland Security, won’t be allowed to accept state-issued forms of identification that don’t include a Real ID seal.
Contact Sarah Moore @ smoore@lsj.com
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Is the TSA ConfirmID available in Michigan? How to use the service
Reporting by Sarah Moore, Lansing State Journal / Lansing State Journal
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