The Transportation Security Administration’s tsa new $45 fee is now set to impact millions of domestic travelers across the United States beginning February 1, 2026. The policy introduces a mandatory charge for adult passengers who arrive at airport security checkpoints without a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or another federally accepted form of identification.
This change marks one of the most significant updates to U.S. airport security procedures in years and is designed to fully enforce federal identification standards while still allowing travelers without proper ID to fly after completing an additional identity verification process.
Below is a complete breakdown of what the new fee means, who will have to pay it, how the verification process works, and what travelers should do now to avoid delays and extra costs.
Table of Contents
Why the TSA Is Implementing the $45 Fee
For nearly two decades, the REAL ID Act has required U.S. travelers to use federally compliant identification for domestic flights. After multiple extensions and phased enforcement, the TSA is now moving into full implementation.
Starting February 1, 2026, adults who arrive at security checkpoints without a REAL ID or other approved identification will no longer be processed for free through manual identity verification. Instead, they will be required to complete a formal identity confirmation procedure and pay a $45 administrative fee.
The TSA has stated that the fee is intended to cover the cost of additional screening, identity verification systems, and staffing required to confirm a traveler’s identity when standard documents are not presented.
How the Identity Verification Process Works
What Happens If You Arrive Without Acceptable ID
If a traveler does not have a REAL ID–compliant license, passport, military ID, or other federally approved identification, they will be directed to a secondary screening process before being allowed through the security checkpoint.
During this process:
- The traveler must complete an identity verification procedure.
- A $45 fee must be paid before screening continues.
- The TSA will confirm identity using secure databases and personal information.
- Once verified, the traveler may proceed to standard security screening.
This process is designed to maintain security while ensuring that passengers are not automatically denied travel due to missing or non-compliant identification.
Validity of the Verification
The $45 payment covers identity verification for a limited time window, allowing travelers to complete a round trip or multiple flights within a short period without paying again, as long as all travel occurs within the approved timeframe.
However, travelers whose return flights fall outside that window may be required to repeat the process and pay the fee again.
Accepted Identification That Avoids the Fee
Travelers can completely avoid the tsa new $45 fee by presenting one of the following:
- REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or state ID (marked with a star)
- U.S. passport or passport card
- U.S. military identification
- Permanent resident card
- Trusted traveler program cards
- Enhanced driver’s licenses issued by participating states
- Federally recognized tribal identification
- Approved digital or mobile IDs in participating states
Any of these forms of identification allow travelers to pass through TSA security without additional fees or identity confirmation procedures.
Who Will Be Affected Most
The majority of U.S. travelers already use compliant identification and will not be impacted. However, the fee will primarily affect:
- Adults who still carry non-REAL ID driver’s licenses
- Travelers who forget their wallet or ID at home
- Individuals using expired or damaged identification
- Tourists relying on documents not accepted for TSA screening
- Residents in states with lower REAL ID adoption rates
Children under 18 are not required to present identification for domestic travel and are not subject to the fee.
How and When the Fee Must Be Paid
The $45 fee is required at the time identity verification is performed. Payment methods are limited to approved electronic options such as credit cards, debit cards, and digital payment systems. Cash is not accepted.
Travelers may be able to complete the payment process in advance in order to reduce delays at the airport, but the identity check itself must still be completed in person.
How This Will Impact Airport Wait Times
Passengers using the identity verification process should expect longer wait times than standard security screening. The TSA has advised travelers who anticipate needing this service to:
- Arrive at the airport earlier than usual
- Allow extra time during peak travel periods
- Be prepared for secondary screening procedures
- Have personal information readily available to assist with verification
Airports with high passenger volume may experience additional congestion during the early months of the program as travelers adjust to the new rules.
Why REAL ID Compliance Matters More Than Ever
The introduction of the tsa new $45 fee effectively turns REAL ID compliance from a recommendation into a financial necessity. Upgrading to a compliant license or carrying a passport eliminates the fee entirely and ensures smoother airport screening.
State motor vehicle agencies continue to process REAL ID upgrades, and travelers are encouraged to apply well in advance of upcoming trips to avoid last-minute complications.
Key Steps Travelers Should Take Now
Check Your Driver’s License
Look forthe star marking that indicates REAL ID compliance. If it is missing, contact your state licensing agency to begin the upgrade process.
Carry a Backup Form of ID
Even if you normally travel with a REAL ID, bringing a passport or trusted traveler card provides an extra layer of security in case your primary ID is lost or forgotten.
Plan for Peak Travel Seasons
During holidays and summer travel periods, identity verification lines may be longer. Travelers without compliant ID should arrive significantly earlier than standard recommendations.
Keep Personal Information Consistent
Make sure your booking details match your legal name and personal information exactly, as discrepancies can slow down the verification process.
How the Fee Fits Into Broader TSA Security Changes
The TSA views the fee as part of a broader modernization of airport security operations. By shifting the cost of manual identity verification to the travelers who require it, the agency aims to streamline screening for compliant passengers while maintaining strict identity standards.
Officials also emphasize that the new system reinforces national security objectives by ensuring that every adult passenger boarding a commercial aircraft has their identity verified to federal standards.
What This Means for Frequent Flyers
For travelers who fly often, upgrading to a REAL ID or using a passport becomes even more important. Paying the fee multiple times in a year could quickly exceed the cost and effort of obtaining compliant identification.
Airlines are also expected to remind passengers of ID requirements during booking and check-in to reduce the number of travelers arriving unprepared at security checkpoints.
Looking Ahead to February 2026
As the start date approaches, airports across the country are preparing for increased demand for identity verification services and a surge in last-minute REAL ID applications. The TSA has urged travelers not to wait until the final weeks before enforcement begins.
Understanding the rules now can help avoid unexpected expenses, missed flights, and stressful airport experiences.
Have questions or personal experiences with ID checks at airports? Share your thoughts below and stay updated as the new travel rules take effect.
