Back in May of 2005, which is, and this is true, more than twenty years ago, the Real ID Act was signed into law. Its intent was to create new, stricter standards for government IDs. These new standards for identification were originally to be implemented by 2008 but, states continued to ask for more time. A mere seventeen years later, Real ID has finally taken effect and all states and US territories have been certified as compliant. Now that every part of the United States is issuing compliant IDs, what comes next?
The State Of Things
Starting in May of 2025, the TSA began enforcing the mandate for passengers on US flights to present Real ID compliant identification during the security screening process. However, they also allowed for some flexible enforcement. The flexibility allowed TSA agents to, for example, warn a passenger that their ID is non-compliant, rather than refusing entry altogether.
Starting last month, November 2025, the the government announced that there will now be TSA fees charged for using their alternative identity verification process, known as ConfirmID. Beginning February 1, 2026, TSA will increase the fee for using that system to $45, up from the current $18.
What Happens At The Airport
If you are flying February 1, 2026 or later and you do not have a Real ID or passport, be prepared to pay the $45.00 TSA fee before going through security at the airport. This TSA fee will allow you to use TSA Confirm.ID for a 10-day travel period. You will be able to pay this fee at the airport. TSA is developing an online link to pay this fee before arriving at the airport. However, it is not available at the time of writing.
Hopefully, paying the fee online will save you some time, when that system becomes available. However, you may still need to physically go through the TSA Confirm.ID screening prior to going through security.
Importantly, if your travel plans extend beyond 10 days, you will be required to pay another $45.00 and go through the screening again.
If you are flying in from another country and do not have a direct flight to your home airport. You will need to plan for extra time between your international and regional flight for this additional screening. Yes, that extra time is beyond the normal security screening.
Take Action
States have been issuing IDs that are Real ID compliant for a little while now. Exactly how long depends on the state), but it is possible that you do not have a Real ID. Here’s a list of some common forms of identification that count as a Real ID for boarding flights:
- Real ID compliant driver’s license.
- Enhanced driver’s license or enhanced ID (EDL or EID).
- Passport.
- DHS Trusted Traveler Card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST).
If you’re not sure you have a Real ID, visit your state ID agency’s website or the REAL ID website. Important note, a Passport Card is acceptable ID for domestic flights but not international ones.
Our advice, avoid the TSA fee and get a passport or Real ID now. Even if it makes for a boring trip to the DMV. You might also want to rethink chasing airline status while you’re at it.
