Starting February 1, 2026, a major change is coming to airport security checkpoints across the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that travelers who arrive without a REAL ID or other acceptable identification will face a new $45 fee to use the agency's ConfirmID system—a significant increase from the originally proposed $18 charge. This policy shift represents the next phase of REAL ID enforcement that began in May 2025 and will directly impact the estimated 6% of air passengers who still don't have compliant identification.
How the $45 Fee Will Change Airport Security for Millions
The new TSA ConfirmID system represents a fundamental shift in how the agency handles identity verification for travelers without proper documentation. Instead of the previous process that allowed additional screening at no cost, passengers will now pay $45 for the privilege of undergoing enhanced identity verification through biometric or biographic systems. According to TSA's January 15, 2026 press release, this fee ensures that "non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs."
Travelers who opt for ConfirmID will face additional screening measures and should expect potential delays of up to 30 minutes, according to TSA officials. The agency emphasizes that clearance is not guaranteed—even after paying the fee—and those who cannot be properly verified will be denied entry to secure areas. "We still need to go through the process to make sure that we verify who you are. And for whatever reason, if we can't do that, then you can't go through the process," Steve Lorincz, TSA's deputy executive assistant administrator for security operations, told ABC News.
Timeline: From May 2025 Enforcement to February 2026 Fees
The road to the $45 fee began with the REAL ID Act's full enforcement on May 7, 2025, when all air travelers 18 and older were required to present compliant identification for domestic flights. During the initial enforcement period, travelers without REAL IDs were allowed through security with additional screening but no fee. The TSA announced the proposed fee structure in November 2025, initially suggesting an $18 charge before increasing it to $45 in the final rule published December 1, 2025.
The timeline highlights a gradual tightening of identification requirements:
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement begins nationwide
- November 2025: TSA proposes $18 fee for non-compliant travelers
- December 1, 2025: Agency announces final $45 fee effective February 1, 2026
- January 15, 2026: TSA launches payment portal for pre-travel ConfirmID registration
- February 1, 2026: $45 fee requirement takes effect at all U.S. airport checkpoints
This phased approach gave travelers nearly nine months to obtain compliant identification after enforcement began, but the fee implementation represents the final step in the REAL ID rollout.
Why the Fee Jumped from $18 to $45: Behind TSA's Decision
The dramatic increase from the proposed $18 fee to the final $45 charge has raised questions among travelers and industry observers. According to TSA officials, the higher amount better reflects the true cost of the modernized verification system. "The fee was necessary because we needed to modernize the system. We needed to make sure that the system is safe," explained Steve Lorincz in his ABC News interview.
Industry analysis from TravelPulse suggests several factors behind the increase: the administrative and IT costs associated with the new ConfirmID system, the need to cover personnel time for enhanced verification procedures, and the goal of creating a stronger incentive for travelers to obtain proper identification. The $45 fee covers a 10-day travel period, meaning passengers making round trips or multiple flights within that window won't need to pay again.
Travel experts note that the fee structure creates a clear financial disincentive for relying on ConfirmID as a regular travel option. At $45 per occurrence (or per 10-day period), frequent travelers would quickly find it more economical to obtain a REAL ID or passport, which cost significantly less in the long run.
Where Things Stand Now: What Travelers Need to Do Today
With the February 1, 2026 deadline approaching, travelers have several urgent considerations. First, check your current identification: REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses feature a gold star in the upper right-hand corner, while enhanced driver's licenses include additional security features. Acceptable alternatives include U.S. passports, passport cards, Global Entry cards, and several other TSA-approved documents.
For those without compliant identification, the TSA strongly recommends paying the $45 fee online at TSA.gov before arriving at the airport. The payment portal generates an email confirmation that travelers must show at security checkpoints. Those who wait until arriving at the airport will face additional delays as they complete the verification process on-site.
Travel advisors are urging clients to take immediate action. "This new fee structure directly impacts the small percentage of travelers who have delayed obtaining proper documentation, as well as those who lose or forget their valid ID while traveling," notes TravelPulse. The publication recommends integrating this requirement into all pre-travel communications with clients.
What Happens Next: Navigating the New Reality of Air Travel
The implementation of the $45 fee marks a new era in airport security where proper identification becomes non-negotiable for cost-conscious travelers. Industry observers predict several likely developments: increased demand for REAL ID appointments at DMVs, greater interest in passport applications, and potential adjustments to travel insurance policies to cover unexpected identification issues.
TSA data indicates that approximately 94% of travelers already have compliant identification, meaning the fee will primarily affect a minority of passengers. However, that still represents millions of travelers annually who will need to adapt to the new requirements. Airports are preparing for the transition by adding signage about the ConfirmID process and training staff to direct affected travelers to payment kiosks near security checkpoints.
Looking further ahead, the success of the ConfirmID system may influence future security policies. If the fee effectively reduces the number of non-compliant travelers while generating revenue for security enhancements, similar approaches could be considered for other aspects of airport screening.
The Bottom Line: Key Takeaways for Your Next Flight
As the February 1 deadline approaches, keep these essential points in mind:
- Check Your ID Now: Verify that your driver's license has a gold star or that you have another acceptable form of identification like a passport.
- Plan for the Fee: If you lack compliant ID, budget for the $45 charge and consider paying online in advance to minimize delays.
- Allow Extra Time: Even with pre-payment, ConfirmID verification can take up to 30 minutes—factor this into your airport arrival time.
- Understand the Limitations: The fee doesn't guarantee clearance; if TSA cannot verify your identity, you won't be allowed through security.
- Consider Long-Term Solutions: For frequent travelers, obtaining a REAL ID or passport is more economical than repeated $45 payments.
The TSA's new fee structure represents the culmination of a two-decade effort to standardize identification for air travel. While it adds complexity and cost for some travelers, the agency believes it strengthens security while ensuring those who benefit from additional services bear the associated costs. As with any major travel policy change, preparation and awareness will be key to navigating this new requirement smoothly.
