The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that, starting February 1, travelers who arrive at airport security checkpoints without a REAL ID or passport will be required to pay a $45 identity verification fee before being allowed to proceed.
According to ABC News, the new charge is part of the TSA’s next phase of the REAL ID implementation process, which will also include a biometric verification system for travelers who lack compliant identification. The agency explained that the fee will apply only to travelers who fail to present acceptable identification at airport checkpoints. The measure is designed to offset administrative and technology costs associated with verifying a traveler’s identity through TSA systems.
Fee Increased From $18 to $45 in Final TSA Rule
The $45 fee marks a significant increase from the originally proposed $18, which appeared in a Federal Register notice last month. TSA officials said the higher fee reflects updated administrative and IT costs needed to operate the identity verification program.
In a statement, the TSA said that travelers without a REAL ID or passport will be able to verify their identity on the agency’s official website before paying the required fee. The process will involve submitting personal information and documentation for online verification. Once approved, travelers will receive a confirmation email, which must be presented at the airport.
TSA noted that this verification process may take 10 to 15 minutes or longer, depending on system demand and traveler information accuracy. However, the agency also warned that paying the fee does not guarantee clearance to cross the security checkpoint. Travelers are encouraged to ensure their identification is compliant before traveling to avoid delays and costs.
REAL ID Deadline and Compliance Requirements
The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005, establishes federal identification standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs. Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 or older must present a REAL ID-compliant license or another approved form of identification (such as a passport) to board domestic flights.
TSA officials said the new $45 verification policy will act as a temporary safeguard during the transition period leading up to the REAL ID enforcement deadline. Travelers can confirm whether their ID is REAL ID-compliant by looking for a star symbol in the upper right-hand corner of their license.
Travelers With Lost or Stolen IDs Must Also Pay Fee
TSA confirmed that the $45 verification fee will also apply to travelers whose REAL ID or passport has been lost or stolen. Officials stated that the fee is necessary because the agency must manually verify each traveler’s identity across multiple databases and biometric tools.
The agency emphasized that the cost will not be covered by airlines or airport authorities, meaning travelers will be responsible for the full amount at the time of processing.