TSA to impose $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID, 150% increase from proposal

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a significant fee increase for travelers who do not possess a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative, effective Feb. 1, 2026.

The fee, initially proposed at $18, will now be $45, marking a 150% increase. This charge will apply to those arriving at airport security without the necessary identification, requiring them to undergo an identity verification process to fly.

The TSA justifies the fee as essential for enhancing air travel safety. The $45 will fund the TSA Confirm ID system, which uses facial recognition and other technologies to verify identities by accessing publicly available information.

The $45 fee covers only 10 days of travel, meaning a return flight beyond that period will incur another $45 charge. "I feel relieved because I hate paying extra money for anything," Canania added.


In addition to the fee, travelers should expect increased wait times.

The TSA warns that if they cannot verify your identity, you will not be allowed through the gate or onto the plane. The agency urges all travelers without a REAL ID to schedule an appointment at their local DMV to update their ID as soon as possible.

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