New TSA program could result in $45 fee for flying without REAL ID

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has confirmed that beginning February 1, 2026, travelers who do not have a REAL ID or another approved form of identification will need to pay a $45 fee to use a new verification system called TSA Confirm.ID.

Initially, the TSA had proposed a fee under $20 for passengers flying without a REAL ID, using a modernized alternative identity verification system. However, the final program sets the charge at $45, covering 10 days of access to TSA Confirm.ID.

This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer, said Adam Stahl, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA.

How the TSA Confirm.ID Process Works

Travelers who arrive at the airport without a REAL ID-compliant or other accepted identification will be offered the optional TSA Confirm.ID process. Participants must provide biographic and/or biometric information to confirm their identity and ensure they are not on a Secure Flight watch list. The process may vary between airports.

The TSA encourages travelers to obtain a REAL ID or other approved identification ahead of time. More than 94% of travelers are already compliant. Those choosing to use TSA Confirm.ID can pay the $45 fee online before arriving or directly at the airport. The agency warns that using this optional program may result in delays.

REAL ID Compliance

A REAL ID-compliant card can be identified by a star on the drivers license or state ID. The star may be black or gold, filled or outlined. Some states, such as Minnesota, Michigan, New York, and Vermont, issue both REAL ID-compliant IDs and enhanced drivers licenses, while Washington only issues enhanced licenses. Enhanced licenses are marked with a flag and contain a chip, which may simplify land or sea entry from Canada, Mexico, or the Caribbean, but REAL IDs cannot be used for border crossings.

Other forms of acceptable identification include:

• Department of Defense ID, including those issued to dependents
• Federally recognized Tribal Nation or Indian Tribe photo ID, including Enhanced Tribal Cards
• Canadian provincial drivers license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card
• Transportation worker identification credential
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)

These forms of ID remain valid up to two years after expiration.

Optional Nature of REAL ID

REAL IDs are optional, and the requirement depends on the travelers circumstances. The TSA will allow passengers without a compliant ID to pass through security if they complete the identity verification process and any additional screening needed. Those who do not comply or whose identity cannot be confirmed will be denied access to the security checkpoint.

Author: Sophia Brooks