The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently announced a new fee for air travelers. Starting February 1, anyone without a compliant ID will have to pay $45. This move aims to encourage more people to obtain enhanced identification documents known as “REAL ID.”
These REAL IDs have been in the spotlight since May 2025, when the TSA began enforcing stricter ID standards. Initially, the agency gave warnings and implemented extra screening for those without the new IDs. Now, they’re serious about pushing travelers to get them or face the fee when they arrive at the airport.
Interestingly, the TSA increased the fee from an original estimate of $18. They explained that the actual costs were higher than they anticipated. If travelers forget to pay the fee in advance, they might spend up to 30 minutes at the airport to settle it. However, if there are extraordinary circumstances, TSA officials might waive the fees.
It’s worth noting that children under 18 don’t need to show an ID at airport checkpoints. Most travelers use state-issued driver’s licenses, but passports and other forms of ID, like permanent resident cards and DHS trusted traveler cards, are also accepted.
Currently, around 94% of travelers are using valid IDs. This effort ties back to a 2005 law that set stricter federal standards for issuing identification cards. This law came about after the September 11, 2001, attacks, as a way to enhance national security and ensure safer travel in the U.S.
According to a 2023 survey from the TSA, about 60% of travelers support the REAL ID initiative, seeing it as a necessary measure for safety. Some critics, however, argue that the fee could disproportionately affect low-income travelers.
As travel resumes in a post-pandemic world, regulations like REAL ID are becoming more important. Keeping up with these changes can help ensure smoother travels and compliance with federal requirements.
For more information, you can visit the TSA’s official page on identification.
