County Clerk warns of new $45 fee for some air travelers without REAL ID, enhanced license

Press Release, Orleans County Clerk Nadine Hanlon

ALBION – Orleans County Clerk Nadine Hanlon today said those who are still using a standard driver’s license to board a domestic flight will be faced with a new $45 fee from the Transportation Security Administrations (TSA) beginning Feb. 1.

Those who have a New York State REAL ID license, enhanced license, passport or other DHS trusted traveler cards like Nexus are not impacted.

“As many people know, REAL ID requirements to board domestic flights took full effect earlier this year after years of postponement,” said Hanlon.  “If you failed to get a REAL ID compliant document, TSA will soon begin charging you a fee to board a flight to cover the cost of an alternative ID verification process.”

Hanlon said specifically the fee is to use the TSA Confirm.ID process which uses advanced biometrics and biographic data for identification verification. Users will be directed to an online portal to provide personal details and documents. The approval is then good for 10 days.

 “I highly suggest people who plan on flying and have yet to get their REAL ID do so and avoid the new process and fee,” said Hanlon.

Hanlon reminded residents that New York State offers both a REAL ID license and Enhanced Driver’s License to meet the federal requirements. The difference is the Enhanced can be used for travel to Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries.

Residents can visit www.dmv.ny.gov  to learn about the different options and the documentation you must bring to the DMV to be issued one. The Orleans County Clerk’s Office is also a passport acceptance agency. Click here to learn more.