Understanding the TSA's New Identification Fee
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is introducing a new fee called "ConfirmID," which will apply to travelers who do not possess a federally compliant form of identification. This includes individuals without a Real ID or passport. Priced at $45, this fee covers the extra time required to verify identities through alternate methods, which can take up to 30 minutes. Even travelers holding a Real ID must remember that they might still face this fee if they do not have their ID on hand while traveling.
How to Create a Digital ID Pass in Google Wallet
You can easily create a digital ID pass through Google Wallet using your U.S. passport information. Follow these simple steps:
- Download the Google Wallet app and tap on the Add ID option.
- Select ID Pass to initiate the setup.
- When prompted, scan your passport's information.
- Locate the security chip on the back cover of your passport.
- Hold your phone over the security chip to scan the details.
- Complete an identity check by following the instructions to scan your face.
- After a few moments, your encrypted ID pass will be ready for use at more than 250 TSA checkpoints.
Why This Matters Now
The Google Wallet feature is a game-changer for anyone with a U.S. passport, allowing the creation of an ID pass even in states that haven't implemented a mobile driver's license feature yet. iPhone users can also benefit from this functionality through iOS.
