REAL ID Requirement
- All adult passengers (18+) must present a REAL ID‑compliant driver’s license or ID card to board domestic flights Transportation Security Administration+1.
- REAL ID is a state‑issued license meeting federal security standards, often marked with a gold or black star in the upper corner Travel Noire+1.
- As of May 7, 2025, non‑REAL ID state‑issued driver’s licenses and IDs are no longer accepted at TSA checkpoints Transportation Security Administration.
- Other acceptable IDs include: U.S. passport/passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), U.S. military ID, permanent resident card, and certain tribal or government IDs Transportation Security Administration.
TSA ConfirmID Fee
- Effective Feb 1, 2026, if you don’t have REAL ID or another acceptable ID, you can use TSA ConfirmID to verify your identity at a TSA checkpoint Travel Noire+1.
- Fee: $45 per verification (non‑refundable) Travel Noire+1.
- Validity: 10 days from the date of verification; you must pay again if traveling beyond that period Alaska Airlines News.
- Process: Pay digitally via the TSA website or QR code at the airport; processing can take 30+ minutes Alaska Airlines News.
- Risk: Without REAL ID or an approved alternative, and without ConfirmID, you may be delayed or denied boarding Travel Noire+1.
Other Key TSA Changes
- Shoe removal rule removed in July 2025 LegalShield.
- Advanced screening tech now used at many airports, including 3D bag scanners LegalShield.
- Mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) are accepted if issued by an approved state and based on REAL ID, EDL, or EID Transportation Security Administration.
How to Prepare
- Check your ID before travel: Ensure it’s REAL ID‑compliant or on the TSA’s acceptable ID list Transportation Security Administration.
- Get a REAL ID if needed: Visit your state DMV, AAA office, or apply online; bring proof of identity, Social Security, and address LegalShield.
- Plan ahead for ConfirmID: If you must use it, verify and pay early to avoid long waits Alaska Airlines News.
- Carry backup ID (passport, trusted traveler card) in case your primary ID is lost or expired.
Bottom line: If you don’t have REAL ID or another acceptable ID, and you don’t use ConfirmID before your trip, you risk being denied boarding. Plan your ID in advance to avoid delays or missed flights.
8 Electronics The TSA Doesn’t Allow In Carry-On Baggage
For the most part, electronics are allowed in checked luggage as per the Transportation Security Administration guidelines. However, there are some notable edge cases where electronic items are banned entirely or find themselves in a gray area. It can be important to be aware of these exceptions before traveling, as getting caught with prohibited items can lead to consequences ranging from confiscation to fines and even arrest. There’s even a website that sells confiscated TSA items (a great place to check if you want your items back).
While electronics are usually allowed in carry-on luggage, and in many cases cannot go in checked luggage, there are a handful of exceptions ranging from power tools to mobility devices, and at least one particular model of smartphone. Here’s a rundown of the devices, gadgets, and tools you shouldn’t try to pack in your carry-on luggage. It is always a good idea to check with the TSA if you’re unsure whether one of your items will be allowed through a security checkpoint. The agency’s policies can change rapidly based on a range of factors, whereas this article reflects its stated policies at the time of writing. Additionally, while many of the items banned in carry-ons can be checked, the TSA rules for electronics in checked bags are different. Without further preamble, let’s run down the list of eight electronics the TSA doesn’t allow in carry-on baggage.
Read more: 7 Of The Most Useful USB Gadgets You Can Buy On Amazon
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