No Real ID yet? Flying through TSA security could now cost you $45 starting Feb. 1

Airport security rules are changing fast in the US. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been updating security rules to speed up airport lines and tighten safety. From July 2025, travelers can keep their shoes on at security. TSA stopped requiring most passengers to remove shoes at checkpoints.

TSA also banned some items from checked bags. Certain cordless hair tools and some external batteries are no longer allowed in checked luggage. A new TSA rule may cost travelers money starting Feb. 1, 2026, as stated by Cincinnati. Passengers without proper ID may have to pay a fee to get through airport security.

Real ID rule

The rule targets travelers without Real ID or a passport. If you don’t have a Real ID, passport, or other approved ID, TSA may charge you. TSA first announced the fee in November 2025. At that time, TSA said non-Real ID travelers would need to pay $18.


The fee was later raised to $45. TSA increased the charge to $45, effective Feb. 1, 2026. The $45 fee is for identity verification at security, as mentioned by Cincinnati. TSA says the money covers the cost and resources needed to verify who you are, as stated by ABC News.Travelers without proper ID will face extra checks. TSA officers will try to confirm your identity at the checkpoint before letting you through.

ConfirmID payment

You can pay the $45 fee online before going to the airport. TSA has an online system called TSA ConfirmID for advance payment. ConfirmID lets you travel without ID for up to 10 days. After paying, you can pass through security without ID for 10 days from the payment date. The ConfirmID receipt must be shown at security. Travelers must show the receipt along with non-compliant documents at the checkpoint.

Paying the fee does NOT guarantee you can fly. TSA warns that identity checks can still fail, and you could be denied boarding even after paying. Getting a Real ID can help you avoid the fee. Real ID is the main identification TSA wants for domestic flights, as mentioned by Cincinnati. In Ohio, Real ID delivery usually takes 10 business days. After visiting a deputy registrar, the Ohio BMV mails your ID within 10 business days.

Other IDs you can use

If your Real ID doesn’t arrive in 28 days, take action. Ohio BMV says you should contact them if your card is delayed. You can avoid the $45 fee with other approved IDs. TSA accepts several backup identification options. Accepted IDs include U.S. passports and passport cards. These documents fully meet TSA security rules.

Enhanced Driver’s Licenses also work. State-issued EDLs or Enhanced IDs are accepted by TSA. Foreign passports are allowed in many cases. TSA accepts valid foreign passports at checkpoints.

Permanent resident and border crossing cards are accepted. These IDs can be used instead of Real ID. Temporary driver’s licenses are NOT accepted, as noted by Cincinnati. TSA does not allow temporary licenses for domestic air travel. Get a Real ID or bring an approved ID to avoid delays, extra checks, or the new $45 TSA security fee.

FAQs

Q1. What happens if I don’t have a Real ID at the airport?

If you don’t have a Real ID or approved ID, TSA may charge you $45 and do extra checks before security.

Q2. Can I avoid the $45 TSA fee without a Real ID?

Yes, you can avoid the fee by using a passport, passport card, or another TSA-approved ID.