Starting February 1, 2026, travelers flying from U.S. airports without a Real ID-compliant identification will face a $45 fee. This fee will be valid for ten days and can be paid prior to arrival at the airport, though specific payment and screening details for this alternative process, called TSA Confirm.ID, are not yet available.
The requirement for Real IDs at airports began in May, aimed at enhancing security and standardizing state-issued identification. Previously, passengers without a Real ID could travel with additional screening, which involved providing their current address.
The TSA has introduced this fee because the current alternative verification process is resource-intensive and limits its capacity. The agency stated that the fee will recover the costs associated with administering the modernized alternative identity verification program from those who use it. The verification process for non-Real IDs will vary by airport.
The TSA reported that over 94 percent of passengers already use Real IDs or other acceptable documents like passports. The new $45 fee represents a significant increase from an earlier consideration of $18. The agency expects some travelers may need to pay this fee multiple times. Critics suggest the fee could disproportionately affect families who do not travel often.