Flying after February 1? TSA confirms new $45 fee that applies to every passenger

Air travelers across the United States are facing a new checkpoint cost beginning February 1. The Transportation Security Administration has confirmed a $45 fee that could apply to all passengers who arrive without proper identification. The change is tied to updated identity verification rules already being rolled out nationwide.

For some travelers, the fee will be unavoidable. For others, it can be completely skipped by preparing ahead.

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What is the new $45 TSA fee?

The Transportation Security Administration has confirmed a new $45 charge connected to identity verification at airport security checkpoints. Starting February 1, passengers who fail to present acceptable identification will be required to pay the fee to use the TSA ConfirmID system in order to verify their identity and proceed through screening, as per a report by The US Sun.

The fee is part of broader identification changes that the TSA has been implementing across U.S. airports. Officials say the charge only applies when travelers do not have proper identification at the checkpoint.

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How can passengers avoid paying the fee?

Travelers can avoid the $45 surcharge by bringing one of the TSA’s approved forms of identification. The agency has released an updated list of acceptable IDs, and each one can be used for up to two years after its expiration date under the latest guidelines.

At the top of the list is a Real ID–compliant driver’s license or identification card. These IDs have been required for domestic travel since May 7. Other commonly accepted options include a military ID, a United States passport or passport card, a foreign government-issued passport, a permanent resident card, a border crossing card, or a state-issued enhanced driver’s license or enhanced identification card, as per a report by The US Sun.

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Which digital and mobile IDs are accepted?

The TSA has also confirmed that mobile driver’s licenses based on Real IDs or enhanced driver’s licenses and identification cards are acceptable in states that have been approved for federal use. Several digital identification options are now recognized as well, including Apple Digital IDs, Clear IDs, and Google ID passes.

In addition, the TSA announced plans to expand its PreCheck Touchless ID pilot program to more than 60 airports nationwide, as per a report by The US Sun.

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What other TSA identification changes are happening?

Another TSA program that began in December could require travelers going through customs to provide DNA, fingerprints, and other biometric information in order to gain entry into the country. The agency says these measures are part of ongoing identity verification efforts, as per a report by The US Sun.


All passengers aged 18 and older must show valid identification at TSA checkpoints. Driver’s licenses or state photo IDs issued by departments of motor vehicles remain acceptable, but beginning May 7, 2025, they must be REAL ID compliant for domestic flights.

FAQs

Who has to pay the $45 TSA fee?
Passengers who arrive at security without acceptable identification will be required to pay the fee to verify their identity.

Can expired IDs still be used at TSA checkpoints?
Yes. Accepted forms of identification can be used for up to two years after their expiration date under current TSA guidelines.