Effective February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will change how travelers without acceptable ID are processed at U.S. airport security checkpoints.
If you don’t have a gold star on your license, flying just got more expensive. Starting February 1, 2026, the TSA is launching ConfirmID, a $45 identity verification service for travelers without a REAL ID.
Quick Facts: The “ConfirmID” Rule
- Effective Date: February 1, 2026.
- The Cost: $45 (Non-refundable).
- Coverage: Valid for a 10-day travel window (perfect for round trips).
- Payment: Must be paid via Pay.gov (online or at the airport).
- Wait Times: Expect an extra 10–30 minutes for processing.
Why This Change Is Happening
The REAL ID law was enacted after the 9/11 attacks to strengthen standards for state-issued identification used for official purposes, including boarding domestic flights.
While enforcement of the REAL ID requirement began in 2025, the new fee is part of a broader effort to:
- Ensure the cost of additional verification is borne by the traveler who needs it, not taxpayers.
- Modernize identity verification at the security checkpoint.
- Maintain secure air travel by confirming that everyone who flies is who they say they are.
According to TSA data, over 94 % of passengers already travel with compliant ID such as REAL ID licenses or passports.
How to Use TSA ConfirmID (If You Don’t Have REAL ID)
If you arrive at the airport with a non-compliant license, follow these steps to board your flight:
- Pay the Fee: Use the TSA ConfirmID portal to pay the $45 fee.
- Save Your Receipt: Keep a printed or digital copy of your Pay.gov receipt.
- Verify Identity: Present your receipt and any available government-issued documents to a TSA officer. They will use federal databases to verify your identity.
⚠️ Warning: Paying the fee does not guarantee boarding. If TSA cannot verify your identity through federal records, you will be denied access to the secure area.
What Counts as Acceptable ID
To avoid the $45 fee and extra processing, travelers should present one of these accepted forms of identification at TSA security:
- REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID
- U.S. passport or passport card
- DHS Trusted Traveller Cards (e.g., Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
- U.S. Department of Défense ID (including military IDs)
- Permanent resident card
- Tribal photo ID from a federally recognized tribe
- Enhanced Driver’s License (where issued)
Note: Temporary paper licenses or non-REAL ID cards without the star/symbol are not acceptable without using the Confirm.ID process.
What Is the TSA Confirm.ID Process?
If you show up without acceptable ID or don’t want to carry one, you may use the TSA Confirm.ID process — the backup identity-verification process that requires the $45 fee.
Here’s how it works:
- Pay the $45 fee — ideally before you reach the airport.
- Verify your identity through online or on-site tools that match your details to federal records.
- Get a confirmation receipt valid for 10 days to use at the checkpoint.
- Present the receipt and go through identity verification before entering the security line.
Important: Paying the fee and completing Confirm.ID does not guarantee boarding. If TSA cannot verify your identity, you may still be denied access to the secure area.
Expect Longer Wait Times Without REAL ID
Travelers using Confirm.ID can expect longer wait times at security due to the extra verification steps.
At busy airports, this can add 10–30 minutes or more to your security experience compared with presenting a compliant ID.
What About Children and Minors?
Typically, children under 18 are not required to show identification when traveling with a companion who has acceptable ID. However, it’s always best to check TSA guidelines before your trip.
How to Avoid the Fee and Delays
Here are simple tips to ensure smooth travel:
Before You Fly
- Check your driver’s license for the REAL ID star or symbol.
- If it doesn’t have one, schedule an appointment at your DMV to upgrade it well before your trip.
- Use a U.S. passport or passport card if you have one — it’s already compliant.
At the Airport
- If you must use Confirm.ID, pay the fee online ahead of time if available.
- Arrive earlier than usual to allow for extra identity verification steps.
Bottom Line
Starting February 1, 2026, you can still fly without a REAL ID, but it will cost you $45 and likely take longer at the TSA checkpoint if you rely on the Confirm.ID process.
The easiest way to avoid fees and delays is to travel with a REAL ID or another acceptable federal form of identification.
This change affects U.S. domestic flights only — international rules remain unchanged.
Before you fly, make sure your bag and items follow the latest rules: USA Carry-On Rules for 2026: TSA Size, Liquids & Battery Rules Explained
