No Real ID, no problem: TSA’s ConfirmID offers quick fix at Sunport

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Travelers without a Real ID can now use TSA’s new ConfirmID program for a fee to get through security at the Sunport.

The program, which began Feb. 1, allows travelers to pay $45 to enroll for a period of 10 days.

Acting Executive Assistant Administrator Steve Lorincz from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said, “It’s a voluntary option to those customers to make sure that they’re able to get processed through the TSA.”

Lorincz explained that the program ensures travelers can make both their outbound and return flights. The $45 fee covers the cost of the operation itself.

Jeffrey Harris, a passenger flying through Sunport, said, “It’s a great idea for anybody who loses their ID. Or, you know, I lose stuff all the time.”

Tyler Barber, another traveler, added, “Your stuff gets stolen or anything like that. It’s a good just second option.” Scarlett Dooley also supported the program, saying, “It’s smart, because I think there are a lot of situations that happen where someone just leaves it in their car, but they might miss their flight.”

However, some passengers remain skeptical. Christi Alvarez questioned, “They just going to have somebody pay the $45 or are they expected to bring other forms of identification? I don’t really know.”

According to TSA, travelers need to show a receipt or confirmation of ConfirmID along with another ID or documentation to verify their identity. The agency noted that about 6 percent of the U.S. population lacks a Real ID, with the figure rising to 20 percent in New Mexico.