01/18/2026
ANNOUNCEMENT 🗣️
✈️ New TSA Rule Effective February 1, 2026 — $45 Fee for Travelers Without Real ID
Starting February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin charging a non-refundable $45 fee to U.S. air travelers who show up at airport security without a Real-ID-compliant ID or another acceptable form of identification (like a passport).
Here’s what you need to know:
💵 What the Fee Is
The $45 charge is tied to TSA’s Confirm.ID program — a modernized identity verification process for passengers who don’t present a Real ID or other approved ID at the security checkpoint.
Travelers pay this fee to complete identity verification before entering the security screening line.
Once approved, the Confirm.ID verification is valid for 10 days, which can cover a round-trip within that time period.
📍 Who This Affects
Passengers 18 and older flying domestically in the U.S. who do not present:
A Real-ID-compliant driver’s license or ID
A U.S. or foreign passport (passport cards included)
Other TSA-accepted IDs (e.g., DHS trusted traveler cards, military ID, permanent resident card, etc.)
💡 How It Works
If you arrive at airport security without an approved ID, you’ll be referred to the Confirm.ID process.
You can pay and complete the verification online before the airport (via pay.gov or TSA.gov) or in person once you reach the checkpoint.
The identity check can take 10–30 minutes depending on the airport and process.
If you decline the fee or verification, you may not be allowed through the security checkpoint, which could prevent you from flying.
📌 Tips to Avoid the Fee
Update your driver’s license or ID to be Real ID-compliant before travel.
Bring an acceptable alternative ID such as a valid passport.
Apply for Real ID at your local DMV ahead of time to avoid delays and fees.
✈️
