New TSA Rule: Starting February 2026, a $45 Fee will Apply if you Travel without REAL ID or Acceptable Identification
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The fee will cover a 10-day travel period. Still, the agency recommends that people who do not already have a REAL ID-compatible ID schedule an appointment at their local DMV as soon as possible to update it.
Starting Feb. 1, 2026, anyone who arrives at the airport without an acceptable ID — such as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport — will be required to pay a $45 fee to verify their identity using the new TSA Confirm.ID system. As announced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the fee will be valid for 10 days of travel.
What IDs are accepted? Valid forms of identification include: • REAL ID-compatible driver’s licenses or state ID cards • Enhanced Driver’s Licenses (EDL/EID) • U.S. Passport or Passport Card • Trusted Traveler Program Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST) • U.S. Department of Defense ID • Permanent Resident Card • Border Crossing Card • Federally Recognized Tribal Identification (including Enhanced Tribal Cards) • TWIC Credential • Work Permit (I-766) • Passport issued by a foreign government • U.S. Merchant Marine Credential • Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC) • Canadian Provincial Driver’s Licenses
A temporary driver’s license will NOT be accepted. If you’re not sure if your document meets the REAL ID requirements, check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What will happen if I travel without a valid ID? All individuals who do not present a valid ID—including those who are only carrying a non-REAL ID-compliant driver’s license- will be directed to the optional TSA Confirm.ID process before entering the security line. The process may vary between airports, and TSA works with private companies to offer online payment options before arriving at the terminal. The agency warns that those using Confirm.ID should anticipate delays.
Why now? Although the REAL ID Act was passed more than 20 years ago, its implementation was delayed for several administrations. According to the TSA, full enforcement of the law began on May 7, 2025. Currently, more than 94% of passengers already have an accepted ID, so the new measure will mainly affect a small group of travelers.
What the TSA says “Verifying identity is essential for traveler safety... we need to make sure that everyone who flies is who they say they are,” said Adam Stahl, the acting officer of the TSA’s deputy administrator. According to the agency, the $45 fee will cover the costs of the additional verification without charging them to the taxpayer.
Key recommendations for travelers The TSA urges those without a REAL ID to pay the fee online before traveling. At most airports, information will also be available near checkpoints for those arriving without advance payment.
