Beginning February 1, 2026, anyone arriving at the airport without an accepted ID—such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or passport, to name a few—will be required to pay a $45 fee to verify their identity through the new system. TSA Confirm ID.
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), it will be valid for 10 days of travel.
What forms of identification are accepted?
Valid forms of identification include:
- REAL ID-compliant state driver's licenses or identification cards
- Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL/EID)
- US passport or passport card
- Trusted traveler program cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)
- U.S. Department of Defense Identification
- Permanent resident card
- border crossing card
- Federally recognized tribal identification (including Enhanced Tribal Cards)
- TWIC Credential
- Work Permit (I-766)
- Passport issued by a foreign government
- U.S. Merchant Marine Credential
- Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Canadian provincial driver's licenses
A temporary driver's license will NOT be accepted.
If you are unsure whether your document meets REAL ID requirements, check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What will happen if I travel without a valid ID?
All persons who do not present a valid identification — including those who only carry a driver's license NOT compatible with REAL ID — will be directed to the optional TSA Confirm.ID process before entering the security line.
The process may vary between airports, and the TSA works with private companies to offer online payment options before arriving at the terminal.
The agency warns that those using Confirm.ID should anticipate delays.
Because right now?
Although the REAL ID Act was passed more than 20 years ago, its implementation was delayed through several administrations. According to the TSA, full enforcement of the law began on May 7, 2025.
Currently, more than 94% of passengers already present an accepted form of identification, so the new measure will mainly affect a small group of travelers.
What the TSA says
“Verifying identity is essential for traveler safety… we must ensure that everyone flying is who they say they are,” said Adam Stahl, acting deputy administrator of the TSA.
According to the agency, the $45 fee will cover the costs of the additional verification without charging the taxpayer.
Key recommendation for travelers
The TSA urges those without a REAL ID to pay the fee online before traveling.
At most airports, information will also be available near the security checkpoints for those arriving without having paid in advance.
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