Traveling without a REAL ID in the United States will cost an extra $45 starting in February.

 The measure will affect adults over 18 who arrive at checkpoints without accepted credentials and must undergo additional verification.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced a new $45 fee for passengers who do not present valid identification at airport checkpoints in the United States, a measure that will take effect on February 1, 2026. The decision impacts travelers over 18 years of age who do not have a REAL ID, passport, or other accepted credential when accessing the boarding areas.

According to official information published by the TSA on its website on January 15, the fee can be paid through a system called TSA ConfirmID, available online and enabled for those who do not have the required documents upon arrival at the airport. The federal agency emphasized that the payment covers the administrative costs of identity verification and does not guarantee boarding.

The announcement comes amid stricter identification requirements for domestic flights, aligned with the final implementation of the REAL ID Act, a federal law passed in 2005 that establishes new security standards for documents used for air travel and access to federal facilities. The implementation of this law, initially scheduled for May 7, 2025, has been postponed several times, according to the agency itself.

What does the new $45 TSA fee for passengers without a REAL ID entail?

The TSA reported that the $45 fee will be applied to those using the TSA ConfirmID system for not presenting an accepted form of identification at security checkpoints. The procedure involves an additional process where agents will attempt to verify the passenger's identity using internal databases and resources, potentially allowing them access to the boarding area.

The agency clarified that paying the fee does not replace the obligation to carry a valid document, nor does it guarantee that the person will be allowed to board the flight. “The payment only covers the administrative cost of the alternative identity verification, without guaranteeing the outcome of the process,” the TSA's institutional statement details.

The payment receipt will be valid for 10 days. If the passenger makes a round trip within that period, a second fee will not be required. If the return trip occurs after 10 days, the fee will be applied again.

What documents does the TSA accept for flying in the United States?

According to the TSA, the documents accepted for boarding domestic flights include:

REAL ID compliant driver's license (identifiable by a gold star)

Valid U.S. passport

Valid foreign passport

Permanent resident card (Green Card)

Enhanced driver's license issued by some border states

U.S. military ID

Border crossing card

Federally recognized tribal identification

The agency warns that temporary credentials, photocopies, expired documents, and receipts for pending applications are not accepted as valid identification. The complete list of documents is available on the official TSA website.

How does the TSA ConfirmID system work, and what steps should passengers follow?

The TSA ConfirmID system allows passengers to pay the $45 fee online before arriving at the airport or directly at the security checkpoint. Once the fee is paid, the traveler must present the receipt to the security officer, who will attempt to verify their identity through a series of questions and by consulting internal databases.

If the passenger's identity cannot be confirmed, they will not be allowed to access the boarding area or board the flight, according to the TSA. The agency emphasizes that the fee is non-refundable and does not grant any priority in the screening process.

Why is this measure being implemented, and what is its purpose?

The TSA explains that the measure aims to shift the cost of the enhanced screening procedures onto passengers who do not meet the identification requirements, rather than distributing it among all taxpayers. According to the official statement, “the fee covers the administrative costs of additional checks and promotes individual responsibility in complying with security regulations.”

The implementation of the fee also responds to the need to expedite security checks and reduce delays caused by a lack of valid documentation, in a context where the REAL ID Act seeks to raise security standards in domestic aviation.

What changes to airport security checks starting February 1, 2026?

The main change starting February 1, 2026, is the mandatory payment of a $45 fee for any adult who does not present a REAL ID or other accepted identification. Until that date, passengers without valid documentation may be subject to additional checks free of charge, but the new policy establishes mandatory payment to access the alternative verification process.

All other security procedures, restrictions on prohibited items, and general boarding rules remain unchanged. The TSA recommends that all passengers check the validity of their documents before traveling to avoid delays or unexpected costs.

What impact will the TSA fee have on travelers and the airport experience?

The TSA anticipates that the measure could affect tens of thousands of travelers each year, especially those who forget their ID or haven't yet obtained a REAL ID. The federal agency emphasizes the importance of passengers being informed and preparing in advance to avoid the fee and potential delays.

The $45 fee will be applied each time a passenger uses the TSA ConfirmID system outside of the 10-day verification period. The agency reminds travelers that payment does not guarantee successful verification and that the final decision rests with the agents at the checkpoint.

How can travelers avoid the fee, and what does the TSA recommend?

The TSA advises all travelers to obtain a REAL ID or ensure they are traveling with a valid passport or other accepted form of identification. The process for obtaining a REAL ID varies by state and may require the presentation of original documents, such as a birth certificate, proof of address, and Social Security number.

The federal agency suggests checking the specific requirements with state motor vehicle (DMV) offices and applying for a REAL ID well in advance, as processing times can vary between 10 and 28 days, depending on the jurisdiction.

Official information and complete details regarding the fee implementation can be found in the official statement available on the TSA website.

The introduction of the $45 fee represents a significant change in airport identity verification policy in the United States, with direct repercussions for travelers who do not meet the TSA's established requirements. The agency emphasizes the importance of preparing the appropriate documentation before arriving at the airport to avoid additional costs and potential inconveniences.