Louisiana travelers who do not have a REAL ID should prepare for changes at airport security starting this weekend. Beginning Sunday, February 1, flyers without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card will be required to pay REAL ID fees to move through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints at U.S. airports.
The new fee is $45 and applies to travelers who need to use an alternative identity verification process known as TSA ConfirmID. This verification is valid for a 10-day travel window, meaning passengers flying round-trip within that timeframe will not need to pay the fee again for their return flight. However, travelers who arrive at the airport without a REAL ID and without paying in advance should expect additional screening steps and potential delays.
REAL ID-compliant licenses were created to meet enhanced federal security standards established after the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission. As of last year, a REAL ID is required to board federally regulated commercial flights, enter certain federal facilities, and access secure locations such as nuclear power plants.
In Louisiana, REAL ID licenses are easy to identify by a yellow star enclosed in a circle located in the upper corner of the card. Despite the requirement taking effect in 2025, a majority of Louisiana residents still do not have a REAL ID, with estimates showing that only about 30 percent were compliant when enforcement began.
Residents who want to avoid additional airport fees and delays can schedule an appointment with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles to upgrade their license or identification card to a REAL ID. Required documents typically include proof of identity, Social Security number, and Louisiana residency.
With spring and summer travel approaching, travelers are encouraged to check their ID now to avoid unexpected costs and stress at the airport.
