WASHINGTON, D.C. — Travelers who arrive at airport security without an acceptable form of identification will soon face a new option — and a new cost.
The Transportation Security Administration announced that starting February 1, 2026, passengers without a REAL ID or other approved identification may choose to pay $45 to use TSA Confirm.ID, an updated identity-verification system that allows them to continue through security. The fee covers a 10-day travel window.
TSA is encouraging travelers without a REAL ID to update their credentials through their local DMV ahead of the deadline. Temporary driver’s licenses will not be accepted.
Passengers who present no ID, or a non-REAL ID-compliant license, will be directed to the optional Confirm.ID process before entering the security line. TSA is working with private partners to enable online pre-payment, though procedures will vary by airport.
More than 94% of passengers already use REAL IDs or other valid forms of identification, according to TSA. Officials warn that those relying on Confirm.ID should expect delays.
“Identity verification is essential to traveler safety,” said Adam Stahl, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA. He said the fee ensures the cost of verifying insufficient ID is covered by the traveler rather than taxpayers.
Information on acceptable IDs and REAL ID requirements is available at TSA.gov.
