Points and miles people hate fees almost as much as they love a good redemption. Unfortunately, TSA has rolled out a new $45 option for travelers who show up without a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification.

As of February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration is enforcing a new policy at airport checkpoints. Travelers without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license—or another acceptable ID—can still fly, but will pay a $45 fee to use TSA ConfirmID for additional identity verification.

 

What Is REAL ID, Anyway?

REAL ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards designed to improve security for domestic air travel. REAL ID-compliant cards, marked with a star, are now required at airport security unless you present another accepted form of identification.

If your license doesn’t have the star, and you don’t have a backup ID, TSA now requires you to pay the $45 fee to attempt identity verification.

 

What Changed?

For years, travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification could go through security after extra screening. Under the new policy, that flexibility now comes with a price tag.

Travelers who arrive without an acceptable form of ID must pay a $45 TSA ConfirmID fee to attempt identity verification at the checkpoint. The fee will cover the cost of the additional screening process—it’s not a fine, but it is required to proceed.

Related: How To Get Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® for Free for You and Your Kids

 

How the $45 Option Works

The ConfirmID fee can be paid online in advance, and the receipt is valid for 10 days. Travelers who don’t prepay may still be able to complete the process at the airport. But be careful, as this could add significant time at security.

Paying the fee also doesn’t guarantee clearance. If TSA can’t verify your identity, you can still be denied access to the secure area.

 

What IDs Are Still Accepted?

If you already carry one of the following, this change won’t affect you:

• REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or state IDs (marked with a star)
• U.S. passports or passport cards
• Trusted traveler cards, including Global Entry and SENTRI
• Military IDs and permanent resident cards

TSA estimates that 94% to 96% of travelers already present acceptable identification. Fortunately, this means only a small share of passengers will need the new fee-based option.

 

Why This Matters

For travelers who’ve put off upgrading to a REAL ID, the choice is now simple: get compliant, carry a passport—or pay $45.

And for points and miles people who pride themselves on avoiding unnecessary fees, this is one charge that’s easy to skip with a little preparation.