The TSA has announced a new policy that will significantly impact air travelers who do not possess a REAL ID starting February 1, 2026. The TSA will begin charging a $45 fee for those who do not have a REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification. This fee will be applied through a new system called TSA ConfirmID, which serves as an alternative identity verification method.
The $45 fee is designed to cover the cost of using the TSA ConfirmID system, which verifies the identity of travelers at security checkpoints. This fee will be valid for a 10-day period, after which travelers would need to pay the fee again if they plan to fly within that timeframe. The TSA strongly encourages passengers to visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to update their IDs to comply with the REAL ID requirements.
For many travelers, the $45 fee is more than double what the TSA originally estimated. It represents a significant financial consideration for those who have not yet obtained a REAL ID. The implementation of this fee is part of a broader effort to enhance security measures and streamline the identification process at airports.
The new system, TSA ConfirmID, is expected to modernize the identity verification process, making it more efficient and secure. Travelers can pay the $45 fee in advance online through a designated portal called TSA ConfirmID. This advance payment option is intended to reduce wait times and improve the overall travel experience for passengers who do not have a REAL ID.
In summary, starting February 1, 2026, air travelers without a REAL ID will face a $45 fee to use the TSA ConfirmID system. This fee is a significant development in the TSA's efforts to enhance security and streamline the identification process at airports. Travelers are advised to update their IDs to avoid this additional cost and ensure a smoother travel experience.
