The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a new $45 fee-based option for air travelers who arrive at airport checkpoints without an acceptable form of identification, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport. The program, rebranded as TSA Confirm.ID, allows these passengers to undergo an alternative identity verification process to potentially gain access to secure areas, starting February 1, 2026.
According to Federal Register notices published on November 20 and December 3, 2025, the fee covers the costs of this modernized, technology-enabled system, which replaces older call-center-based methods. The initial notice set the fee at $18, but an updated analysis released on December 2 revised it to $45 based on refined population estimates, usage trends, and implementation expenses.
The fee applies per individual for a 10-day period, during which multiple uses are allowed if identity is successfully verified each time. Participation is optional, non-refundable, and does not guarantee access—users may face additional screening or delays.
TSA officials emphasized that the program shifts the financial burden from taxpayers to those benefiting from the service. “Identity verification is essential to traveler safety because it keeps terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens out of the skies and other domestic transportation systems such as rail,” said Adam Stahl, Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator for TSA, in a statement. “The vast majority of travelers present acceptable identification like REAL IDs and passports, but we must ensure everyone who flies is who they say they are. This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer.”
The agency projects that over 94% of passengers already use compliant IDs, but anticipates longer wait times for those opting into TSA Confirm.ID. Travelers without acceptable ID will be directed to the process at checkpoints, with options for online payment in advance or on-site at select airports. TSA is partnering with private industry to streamline digital payments.
The TSA outlines a comprehensive list of accepted identification documents required for air travel. Generally, this includes REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses or state-issued photo IDs (travelers must confirm compliance with their respective state DMV). Acceptable federal documents include U.S. passports or passport cards, as well as various DHS trusted traveler cards (such as Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, and FAST). Additionally, the agency accepts U.S. Department of Defense IDs, including those for dependents, and Permanent Resident Cards or border crossing cards.
The list also covers several other specific credentials. These include Federally recognized Tribal Nation/Indian Tribe photo IDs (including Enhanced Tribal Cards), HSPD-12 PIV cards, and Foreign government-issued passports. Certain transportation and employment credentials are also valid, such as Canadian provincial driver’s licenses or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada cards, Transportation Worker Identification Credentials (TWIC), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Cards (I-766), and U.S. Merchant Mariner Credentials. Finally, Veteran Health Identification Cards (VHIC) are accepted.
Temporary driver’s licenses are not accepted. TSA urges passengers to obtain a REAL ID promptly to avoid fees and delays, noting that appointments at local DMVs may be required.
The REAL ID Act, passed in 2005 following the 9/11 Commission recommendations, mandates enhanced security standards for state-issued IDs used for federal purposes like air travel. Enforcement began on May 7, 2025, under the Trump administration, with Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem overseeing implementation after years of delays by prior administrations.
Detailed fee development reports, dated November 13 and December 2, 2025, highlight costs for IT infrastructure, software, identity validation, mobile computing, data security, program management, and customer support. TSA estimates the program will handle increased demand through automation, but repeated non-compliance could lead to usage limits for individuals.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
