What You Need to Know About the TSA’s New $45 Fee
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- calendar_month Minggu, 18 Jan 2026
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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a new policy that will significantly impact air travelers in the United States. Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without a Real ID or other acceptable forms of identification may be required to pay a $45 fee to pass through airport security checkpoints. This change is part of an effort to streamline the identity verification process and ensure that the costs associated with non-compliant travelers are borne by those individuals rather than taxpayers.
What is the TSA’s New $45 Fee?
The new $45 fee applies to travelers who do not have a Real ID, U.S. passport, or another acceptable form of identification. The fee is designed to cover the costs of verifying a traveler’s identity at the security checkpoint. Travelers can pay this fee in advance through an online portal called TSA ConfirmID. However, it is important to note that paying the fee does not guarantee that TSA will be able to verify your identity or that you will be allowed to board your flight.
How to Pay the $45 Fee Online
To avoid delays at the airport, travelers are encouraged to complete the TSA ConfirmID process before arriving at the airport. Here’s how you can do it:
- Visit the TSA ConfirmID website.
- Click on the “Pay Now” button.
- Enter the traveler’s legal name, start date, and method of payment (bank account, debit card, credit card, Venmo, or PayPal).
- Pay the $45 fee through Pay.gov.
- After the payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email from Pay.gov. Keep this email as proof of payment, take a screenshot, or print the receipt to show at the TSA checkpoint.
Each adult 18 years or older without acceptable ID must complete the ConfirmID process separately.
What Happens if You Don’t Pay the Fee?
Travelers who arrive at the airport without completing the ConfirmID process may face significant delays. TSA officials will attempt to verify their identity at the checkpoint, but this process can take up to 30 minutes and may result in missed flights. Additionally, travelers who do not have a Real ID or other acceptable form of identification may be denied boarding altogether.
How to Avoid the $45 Fee
To avoid the $45 fee, travelers should ensure they have one of the following acceptable forms of identification:
- U.S. passport
- U.S. passport card
- State-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) or Enhanced ID (EID)
- Foreign passport
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
A temporary driver’s license is not accepted for domestic air travel. If you’re unsure whether your ID is Real ID compliant, check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
What is Real ID?
Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. It provides a more secure form of identification that meets the requirements set by the REAL ID Act of 2005. As of February 1, 2026, travelers must present a Real ID or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States.
Conclusion
The TSA’s new $45 fee is a significant change that travelers should be aware of when planning their trips. While the fee offers an alternative for those without acceptable identification, it is not a guaranteed solution. To avoid delays and potential missed flights, it is best to obtain a Real ID or another acceptable form of ID well in advance of your travel date. By preparing ahead, you can ensure a smoother and more efficient airport experience.
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