What's happened
Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without a compliant ID will pay a $45 fee to verify their identity at U.S. airports. The fee applies to those flying domestically without a Real ID or accepted alternative, with verification valid for 10 days. The change aims to recover costs and encourage compliance.
What's behind the headline?
The new fee signals a shift towards stricter enforcement of Real ID compliance, emphasizing security and cost recovery. While intended to streamline verification, it risks penalizing infrequent travelers and families, especially given the high fee of $45. The reliance on online payment and the variability of verification processes across airports could create confusion and delays. This move benefits the TSA by offsetting administrative costs but may also reflect broader efforts to tighten security post-9/11, potentially at the expense of traveler convenience. The policy underscores a growing trend of monetizing security measures, which could influence future regulations and passenger behavior.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the TSA's new fee of $45 will be implemented from February 1, 2026, for travelers without a Real ID, citing increased costs for identity verification. AP News highlights that the fee is designed to recover government expenses and that most passengers are already compliant, with the process allowing online payment beforehand. Both sources note the variability in verification procedures and the potential impact on travelers, especially those who do not travel frequently or are affected by the higher costs. The New York Times emphasizes that the fee is a significant increase from initial proposals and discusses the broader context of Real ID enforcement, which has faced delays since its inception in 2005.
How we got here
The Real ID program, established after 9/11, sets federal standards for state-issued IDs. Although mandated in May 2025, enforcement was initially lenient, allowing travelers to undergo additional screening without penalties. The new fee system is part of efforts to ensure security and standardization, with most passengers already compliant.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What Are the New US Domestic Flight ID Fees and How Do They Work?
Starting February 1, 2026, travelers flying within the US will face new ID requirements and fees if they don't have a REAL ID. This change aims to boost security but raises questions about costs, compliance, and how it affects your travel plans. Below, we answer the most common questions about these new rules and fees so you can prepare accordingly.
More on these topics