Travel planning means thinking ahead especially when it comes to documentation. Beginning February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is implementing a new policy that could affect anyone flying within the United States who does not have an acceptable form of identification.
Under the updated procedure, passengers who arrive at airport security without a REAL ID-compliant license or another TSA-accepted form of ID will be offered an optional identity verification process called TSA Confirm.ID. That option comes with a nonrefundable $45 fee if you still want to fly.
This new step reflects a shift from the earlier era when enhanced screening was available without dedicated cost recovery. The fee is intended to cover the costs of using an alternative identity verification system for travelers who are not presenting standard compliant IDs at the checkpoint.
Why This Matters for Travelers
Before February 1, 2026, nearly all travelers already use an acceptable ID such as a REAL ID or passport at airport security checkpoints. Only a small percentage of flyers were using enhanced screening methods.
Now, if you attempt to go through security with an ID that isn’t REAL ID compliant such as a standard state driver’s license without the REAL ID star you will be directed to the Confirm.ID process. In practical terms, that means:
- You can still fly by completing the Confirm.ID process and paying the $45 fee.
- That fee covers a 10-day travel period, meaning if you plan multiple flights during that window, the confirmation remains valid.
- TSA Confirm.ID may take additional time at security often up to 30 minutes or longer for processing and verification.
- Payment can be made online before your trip or at the airport at designated TSA Confirm.ID locations.
- Simply having this receipt does not guarantee verification; if TSA cannot verify a traveler’s identity, they may be denied access to the security line.
What Counts as an Acceptable ID
If you do not want to pay the fee or face delays, you can still travel without additional cost by presenting one of the following at airport security:
- A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID (identified by a star)
- A U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS trusted traveler cards (like Global Entry, SENTRI, NEXUS, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense ID
- Permanent resident card or other DHS-approved identification
Passport holders and travelers with acceptable IDs will not be charged the $45 fee and will proceed through checkpoints normally.
How to Avoid the Fee and Stress
- Check Your ID Before You Book
Before booking a flight especially for 2026 travel double-check that your ID is REAL ID-compliant. - Upgrade Early if Needed
If your state ID is not yet REAL ID-compliant, schedule an appointment with your local DMV to submit required documents and upgrade. - Carry Your Passport
A valid U.S. passport is always an accepted form of ID and avoids both the fee and extra processing. - Plan Extra Time at the Airport
If you must use Confirm.ID, allow more time at security to complete the verification and avoid missed flights.
Final Thoughts
This change serves as a reminder that travel requirements can evolve and being prepared helps keep your trip smooth from start to finish. While the $45 fee option gives travelers a fallback if they forget or don’t have compliant ID, the easiest way to avoid extra costs and delays is to ensure your identification meets federal standards before you head to the airport.
Charm Travel 