Still Don’t Have a Real ID? TSA’s $45 Airport Fee Is Now in Effect

What Changed on February 1?

Beginning February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration rolled out ConfirmID, a paid identity verification program for travelers who arrive at the airport without acceptable identification.

Previously, passengers who forgot their ID could complete a manual verification process at no charge. That option has now been replaced with a $45 fee. Travelers who do not present a Real ID compliant driver’s license, passport, or another approved credential must complete the ConfirmID process if they want to proceed through security.

The fee is nonrefundable and does not guarantee clearance.

How TSA’s ConfirmID Process Works

ConfirmID is designed as a last resort for passengers who show up without proper identification.

Travelers can complete the process online before arriving at the airport by:

• Submitting their legal name, address, and date of birth

• Paying the $45 fee using a debit card, credit card, Venmo, or PayPal

• Providing basic travel details

If TSA successfully verifies the traveler’s identity, it issues temporary clearance valid for up to 10 days. That clearance covers multiple flights within that window.

At the checkpoint, travelers must present a printed or digital copy of their ConfirmID receipt.

Passengers who wait to complete the process at the airport may face delays of 30 minutes or more and could miss their flight. If TSA cannot confirm a traveler’s identity, the passenger may be denied access to the secure area.

Why Is TSA Charging $45?

TSA says the fee is meant to recover costs associated with identity verification.

According to the agency, ConfirmID includes biometric screening, photo matching against government databases, information technology infrastructure, software development, data integration, and program management costs.

An earlier Federal Register proposal suggested a fee of $18. The finalized amount is $45.

“This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer,” said Adam Stahl, TSA’s senior official performing the duties of deputy administrator.

TSA reports that approximately 94 percent of travelers are already using compliant identification.

Do You Need a Real ID to Fly?

Yes, if you are 18 or older and flying domestically within the United States.

Real ID enforcement officially began in May 2025. Adult travelers must present either:

• A Real ID compliant driver’s license

• A valid U.S. passport

• Another TSA approved credential

The Real ID Act was passed in 2005 to establish uniform national standards for state issued identification following the September 11 attacks. After years of extensions and pandemic related delays, enforcement is now fully in effect.

What Forms of ID Are Accepted by TSA?

You can still fly without a Real ID if you bring one of the following:

• U.S. passport or passport card

• State issued Enhanced Driver’s License

• Global Entry or other DHS trusted traveler cards

• Permanent resident card

• U.S. Department of Defense ID

• Veteran Health Identification Card

• Transportation Worker Identification Credential

• Employment Authorization Card

• Canadian provincial driver’s license

• Foreign government issued passport

Bringing one of these documents eliminates the need for ConfirmID.

The ConfirmID program is not a penalty. It is a backup system for travelers who arrive without acceptable identification, but it is now a paid backup. f you do not yet have a Real ID, or if you are prone to forgetting your wallet, this is the moment to plan ahead. The alternative now costs $45 and could delay your trip.

FAQs: TSA’s $45 Airport Fee Is Now in Effect

Who was the policy introduced by?


The ConfirmID fee was introduced by the Transportation Security Administration and took effect on February 1, 2026.

Were the previous ID checks free?


Yes. Before February 2026, TSA allowed manual identity verification at no charge for travelers who forgot proper identification.

Can I fly without a Real ID?


Yes, if you present another TSA-approved document such as a U.S. passport or military ID.

Are the photos or biometric scans stored permanently?


TSA states that ConfirmID includes biometric screening and identity verification through government databases as part of the process.

Are ConfirmID payments refundable?


No. The $45 fee is nonrefundable, even if TSA cannot verify your identity.

How long is ConfirmID clearance valid?


If approved, clearance is valid for up to 10 days and may cover multiple flights.

What happens if I forget my Real ID at home?


You must complete the ConfirmID process and pay the $45 fee to attempt identity verification.

Where are the Real ID requirements enforced?


Real ID requirements apply at TSA security checkpoints for domestic flights within the United States.