✈️ Travel Alert: New $45 Fee for Flyers Without REAL ID Starts February 1st

Marcela Knaup
Dec 2, 2025
2 min read

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is introducing a major change for air travelers who do not present a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification at security checkpoints. Starting February 1, 2026, passengers without a valid ID will be directed to an optional, fee-based identity verification process called TSA Confirm.ID, costing $45 for a 10-day travel period.

How to Avoid the $45 Fee and Delays

The TSA strongly urges all travelers to get a REAL ID or carry one of the following acceptable forms of identification to avoid delays and the fee:

Acceptable IDs (Examples)	Unacceptable IDs (Examples)
REAL ID-compliant Driver's License or State ID	Non-REAL ID-compliant State ID
U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card	Temporary Driver's License
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, etc.)	Standard School/Work IDs
Permanent Resident Card

🚨 Critical Warning: Travelers who choose the TSA Confirm.ID process at the airport should expect increased wait times and risk potentially missing their flights.

Your Action Plan: Get Compliant Now!

Check Your ID: Look for a star or circle on your state-issued driver’s license or ID card. If you are unsure, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Schedule a DMV Appointment: If you need a REAL ID, schedule your appointment now, as wait times may increase.
Pay Online (If Necessary): If you absolutely cannot obtain a REAL ID before your trip, the TSA urges you to pay the $45 TSA Confirm.ID fee online proactively before arriving at the airport to minimize delays.