New $45 Fee for U.S. Air Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 2026

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Effective February 1, 2026, travelers in the U.S. who do not possess a REAL ID will incur additional costs. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has confirmed that individuals aged 18 and above without this federally mandated identification—or any other authorized ID—will be required to pay a non-refundable $45 fee.

The REAL ID, identifiable by a white star in a yellow circle on eligible state licenses, has been compulsory since May. Previously, travelers could pass through security with extra scrutiny and a notice. The Department of Homeland Security indicates that approximately 94% of travelers are compliant, and the new fee aims to encourage others to secure the necessary ID.

The Significance of REAL ID

The REAL ID was established in response to the security concerns following the September 11, 2001, tragedies, enhancing safety measures at airports. Acquiring it entails providing more documentation than traditional state IDs, including identity proof, residency, and legal status.

For those lacking a REAL ID, TSA’s alternative system, “Confirm.ID,” will facilitate identity verification. Fees can be settled online ahead of time or at airport kiosks, with the process potentially lasting up to 30 minutes. While this fee guarantees entry into the program for a 10-day travel window, it does not guarantee approval; passengers unable to be verified might be refused boarding.

Alternative Accepted IDs

Travelers presenting federally recognized IDs—like passports, military IDs, permanent resident cards, and tribal-issued photo IDs—will be exempt from this fee. Furthermore, TSA accommodates digital IDs via Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet at over 250 U.S. airports.

Understanding the Fee Increase

Initially, the TSA considered an $18 fee for non-REAL ID travelers, but the adopted $45 rate reflects the increased operational expenses for the verification system.

Given these updates, air travelers are encouraged to prepare accordingly, ensuring they have valid identification to avoid unforeseen delays or extra charges at U.S. airports.