WASHINGTON Starting Feb. 1, 2026, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration will require travelers boarding domestic flights without a REAL ID-compliant license or other approved identification to pay a $45 fee for an alternative identity verification process called TSA ConfirmID, the agency said.
The fee does not guarantee boarding and is nonrefundable, marking a significant change in domestic air travel policy.
KEY POINTS
- Mandatory fee: Travelers without REAL ID or approved ID must pay $45 for TSA ConfirmID verification.
- Alternatives available: U.S. passports, military IDs, trusted traveler cards, and enhanced state IDs remain valid without additional charges.
- Impact on travel: The ConfirmID process may add extra time at security checkpoints, particularly at busy airports.
The TSA’s new policy formalizes a process for passengers lacking federally accepted identification. While the REAL ID Act has been in effect since 2005, enforcement has been gradual.
With full enforcement in place, ConfirmID provides a paid alternative for those without compliant ID, ensuring continued access to domestic flights while recovering administrative and operational costs.
“This fee allows TSA to allocate resources efficiently while still giving travelers an option if they forget or do not have a compliant ID,” said TSA spokesperson Michael Lewis.
The REAL ID Act of 2005 established federal standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards used to board domestic flights and access federal facilities.
Delays in state compliance and phased federal enforcement allowed travelers to fly without REAL ID for years, but full TSA enforcement began in May 2025.
Before Feb. 1, travelers without compliant ID could undergo additional screening without cost.
The introduction of the $45 ConfirmID fee standardizes the process and encourages compliance with federal ID requirements.
Security experts view the fee as a cost-recovery measure that reinforces REAL ID compliance.
“Most states now issue REAL IDs, so this fee incentivizes travelers to get compliant identification while funding the alternative verification process,” said aviation policy expert Dr. Laura Martinez.
However, civil liberties and consumer groups caution that the fee may disproportionately affect lower-income travelers or those unfamiliar with REAL ID requirements.
Clear communication is essential to prevent confusion and unnecessary costs at airport checkpoints,” said advocacy director Rachel Thompson of Travelers United.
Practical Details and Comparisons
Passengers using ConfirmID must pay the $45 fee online via pay.gov or at designated airport kiosks. The fee covers a 10-day travel period, and passengers may still be denied boarding if identity verification fails.
“TSA ConfirmID provides a backup for travelers, but it’s best to plan ahead to avoid delays,” said Patricia Hughes, director of airport operations at a major U.S. hub.
Business traveler Mark Reynolds said, “This makes traveling a little more stressful if you don’t have a passport or REAL ID, but it’s good to have a clear process.”
TSA expects airlines and airports to enhance communication about the fee during ticket booking and check-in. States with lower REAL ID uptake may see an increase in applications as travelers adjust to the new requirements.
Officials have not indicated whether the $45 fee will be adjusted in the future, emphasizing that it reflects current administrative costs for identity verification.
The TSA ConfirmID $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID or other approved identification represents a major operational change for U.S. domestic flights.
By providing a structured alternative for non-compliant travelers, TSA reinforces federal identification standards while ensuring security and operational efficiency at checkpoints.
Travelers are strongly encouraged to verify their identification status and plan ahead to avoid unexpected costs or delays.