Thousands of travelers may have to pay extra fees at the airport next week

"The program, which the Department of Homeland Security launched in May, requires travelers to have an updated, Real ID-compliant driver's license, or other approved form of ID, in order to pass through airport security checkpoints and board flights. If you are one of the estimated 6% of U.S, travelers that still don't have a Real ID, or another acceptable form of documentation, you may be charged a $45 fee starting next week."

"If that's you, TSA recommends passengers verify their identity using the new ConfirmID process, and pay the $45 fee prior to going to the airport. However, you still run the risk that you "may not be allowed through security and may miss your flight." TSA urges travelers who do not have a Real ID to schedule an appointment at their local DMV to update their ID as soon as possible."

"As Fast Company previously reported, the Real ID is state-issued driver's license, or learner's permit, that has been enhanced so it's federally compliant. It's marked with a gold or black star in the upper right-hand corner to indicate that it meets the security standards of the REAL ID Act. Those stars vary from state to state. (A California Real ID is marked with a golden bear; while here in Massachusetts, you'll find a simple gold star.)"

Starting February 1, domestic air travelers without a TSA-approved Real ID or other approved identification may face a $45 fee at U.S. airport security. An estimated 6% of U.S. travelers lack compliant ID. TSA recommends using ConfirmID and paying the fee before arriving at the airport, but passengers may still be denied security and miss flights. A Real ID is a federally compliant state-issued driver's license or learner's permit marked with a gold or black star. Acceptable alternates include U.S. passports, Enhanced Driver's Licenses, DHS trusted traveler cards, military IDs, and permanent resident cards.

Read at Fast Company