TSA to Impose $45 Fee for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1
Washington, D.C., January 15, 2026 – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin enforcing a $45 identity verification fee on February 1, 2026, for domestic air travelers who do not present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification. This new policy aims to ensure all passengers are properly verified at security checkpoints, with the fee covering a 10-day travel period for the TSA Confirm.ID process.
What is the New TSA Fee?
The $45 fee applies to passengers aged 18 and older flying within the United States who arrive at TSA checkpoints without a REAL ID or approved alternatives, such as a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or DHS Trusted Traveler card. Travelers will be directed to the TSA Confirm.ID system for identity verification, which may take 10 to 30 minutes and could result in delays or denial if verification fails. The fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee boarding. Those who pay online in advance can present proof of payment to reduce wait times.
How to Avoid the Fee
To skip the $45 charge, travelers should obtain a REAL ID-compliant ID from their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. REAL IDs feature a star or other symbol in the top right corner and cost the same as standard IDs in most states. Alternatives include passports or enhanced driver’s licenses. Expired acceptable IDs can be used up to two years past expiration. Minors traveling with parents do not need ID, but unaccompanied minors should carry a passport or birth certificate.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fee Amount | $45 per 10-day travel period |
| Effective Date | February 1, 2026 |
| Compliance Rate | Over 94% of passengers already use REAL ID or acceptable IDs |
| Verification Time | 10-30 minutes if not prepaid |
| REAL ID Act Enactment | Passed in 2005; full enforcement began May 7, 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who must pay the $45 TSA fee?
Passengers 18 and older flying domestically without a REAL ID or acceptable ID, such as a passport or military credential, will be required to pay the fee to use the TSA Confirm.ID system.
Can expired IDs be used?
Yes, acceptable forms of ID can be used up to two years after expiration under current TSA guidelines.
What are acceptable alternatives to REAL ID?
Options include U.S. passports, passport cards, DHS Trusted Traveler cards (like Global Entry), military IDs, permanent resident cards, and enhanced driver’s licenses from certain states.
How does the fee work for round trips?
The $45 fee covers a 10-day period, allowing it to apply to both departure and return flights within that window if the return is within 10 days.
What if my identity cannot be verified?
Even after paying the fee and undergoing the process, travelers may be denied boarding if verification fails, with no refund provided.