Flying without a Real ID or passport? It'll cost you $45 soon

"Airline travelers who attempt to pass through security checkpoints without a Real ID will be subject to the Transportation Security Administration's new security screening program and pay a new fee of $45. On Monday, the TSA announced that passengers without a Real ID or other TSA-approved form of identification have the option to verify their identity through the modernized alternative identity-verification program, officially called TSA Confirm.ID, beginning Feb. 1, 2026."

"Those who choose to use TSA Confirm.ID will be charged a $45 fee - an increase from a previously announced $18 fee. "Identity verification is essential to traveler safety, because it keeps terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens out of the skies and other domestic transportation systems such as rail," said Adam Stahl, acting deputy administrator for the TSA. "The vast majority of travelers present acceptable identification like REAL IDs and passports, but we must ensure everyone who flies is who they say they are.""

Beginning Feb. 1, 2026, passengers without a Real ID or other TSA-approved identification may verify their identity through TSA Confirm.ID at U.S. airports. The program uses biometric methods such as facial recognition, fingerprints, and retinal scans via a new kiosk system to confirm identity before entering security lines. Travelers who opt into Confirm.ID will be charged a $45 fee, an increase from an earlier $18 figure. TSA will present the Confirm.ID option upon reaching TSA check-in and before security lines, and is coordinating with private industry to offer online payment options prior to arrival. TSA states identity verification protects transportation systems.

Read at Los Angeles Times