Breaking News: New Airport Fee Starts February 1, 2026
Starting February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin charging a $45 fee to travelers who arrive at airport security without a Real ID or another approved form of identification.
This new rule affects all domestic flights within the United States. If you don’t have the right ID and don’t pay the fee, you won’t get through security and will miss your flight. For millions of travelers, this marks a major change in how airport security works.
What Is the TSA ConfirmID Program?
The new $45 charge is part of a program called TSA ConfirmID.
ConfirmID gives travelers without proper identification a chance to verify their identity at the airport. TSA officers will perform extra checks, which may include asking personal questions and doing additional screening.
It’s important to understand that ConfirmID is not a guarantee. Even after paying the fee, TSA may still be unable to confirm your identity, which means you could be denied access to security and miss your flight.
Why Is TSA Charging $45?
TSA says the fee covers the extra costs involved in verifying identity, including staff time, technology, and security resources. Officials say this ensures taxpayers don’t have to pay for travelers who don’t meet ID rules.
The fee was originally expected to be much lower, around $18, but was raised after a full cost review. TSA leadership has said the goal is simple: travelers who don’t follow ID requirements should bear the cost themselves.
What Is Real ID and Why It Matters
A Real ID is a state-issued driver’s license or ID card that meets federal security standards. You can recognize it by the star symbol in the upper-right corner.
The Real ID law was passed in 2005, following the 9/11 attacks, to strengthen identity checks at airports and federal buildings.
Real ID has technically been required for flying since May 7, 2025, but travelers without it were previously allowed to fly after extra screening. That grace period ends with the ConfirmID program. Full, strict enforcement continues toward May 5, 2027.
How the $45 ConfirmID Fee Works
If you arrive at the airport without a Real ID or approved ID, you must pay $45 to attempt identity verification.
You can pay in two ways:
- Online before travel through the official government payment site
- At airport kiosks, though this may involve long waits
The fee covers 10 days of travel, not just one flight. However, once the 10 days are over, you must pay again if you still don’t have proper ID.
Even after paying, TSA may take 10 to 30 minutes to complete checks, and clearance is not guaranteed.
Waivers may be available in rare emergency situations, such as medical or family crises.
Accepted IDs That Do NOT Require the Fee
If you carry any of the following, you won’t need to pay the $45 fee:
| Accepted ID Type | Notes |
| Real ID Driver’s License | Must have the star symbol |
| U.S. Passport or Passport Card | Valid for domestic flights |
| Military or DoD ID | Includes dependents |
| Trusted Traveler Cards | Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST |
| Permanent Resident Card | Green Card holders |
Children under 18 years old do not need identification when flying domestically with an adult.
How to Get a Real ID
Getting a Real ID takes planning, but it’s the best long-term solution.
You must visit your state DMV in person with:
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Two documents showing your current address
Costs vary by state, usually ranging from $20 to $50, and processing times are often about two weeks. Some states charge an extra fee compared to a regular license.
DMVs are already reporting long wait times, so booking an appointment early is strongly recommended.
Public Reaction to the New Fee
The announcement sparked strong reactions online. Many travelers have called the fee a “money grab,” especially families who could face multiple charges.
TSA responds that more than 94% of Americans already have Real ID, and the fee is meant to encourage the remaining travelers to comply before full enforcement begins.
Travel experts agree on one thing: airport lines will be longer for anyone using ConfirmID.
Tips to Avoid Stress and Delays
Before booking or traveling, check your ID carefully. If there’s no star, it’s not a Real ID.
Apply early, double-check your state’s DMV requirements, and don’t assume your current license qualifies. Even TSA PreCheck members must have acceptable identification.
If you must use ConfirmID, paying online ahead of time and arriving several hours early can help reduce stress.
What Happens Next?
The ConfirmID program will roll out first at major airports, then expand nationwide. TSA continues to push travelers toward getting Real ID to reduce congestion and delays.
As the 2027 full enforcement deadline approaches, rules are expected to tighten further. The closer it gets, the fewer exceptions travelers should expect.
The Bottom Line
Starting February 1, 2026, flying without Real ID or approved identification will cost $45 every 10 days, with no guarantee of success.
Getting a Real ID now is the easiest way to avoid extra fees, long lines, and missed flights. Visit your state DMV, gather your documents, and take care of it before your next trip.
A little preparation today can save you money, time, and major airport stress tomorrow.
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