SCDMV Reminds Customers to Plan Ahead for Air Travel

The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) is alerting residents to a new measure being implemented by the federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Starting Feb. 1, the TSA will charge a new fee to those traveling through U.S. airports without REAL ID compliant identification. As of that date, travelers will face a $45 fee to use the “TSA ConfirmID” process at TSA checkpoints if they fail to present a REAL ID compliant form of identification and still want to fly.
According to the TSA, the new fee covers the cost of a modernized alternative identity verification system. The verification will cover a 10-day travel period, so travelers who plan their return flight within that 10-day period will pay once for both flights. The TSA states on their website that the ConfirmID process could add as much as 30 minutes to security checkpoint timelines and encourages travelers to plan accordingly.
The SCDMV reminds residents they can avoid the TSA ConfirmID fee by obtaining a REAL ID compliant credential at any of the SCDMV branch office locations. Customers need to allow time to receive their new REAL ID card as the SCDMV now mails credentials to customers, usually within 7 to 15 business days. Customers receive a temporary certificate when they apply for or renew their driver’s license or ID card, and their existing card is returned to them with a hole punched in the card.
While a REAL ID compliant credential is not legally required to drive or vote, it is required to board a domestic flight, enter a military base or access a federal building. Customers who want to obtain a REAL ID compliant card should visit the SCDMV’s website at dmv.sc.gov to check wait times at local offices and for a checklist of documents needed to get a REAL ID driver’s license or ID card.
South Carolinians can find more information on the TSA ConfirmID program fee and a list of TSA’s acceptable forms of ID can be found at TSA.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.