Starting February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will begin charging a $45 identity verification fee to certain passengers who arrive at airport security without acceptable identification. The new fee is tied to TSA ConfirmID, a verification program designed to assist travelers who do not have a REAL ID, U.S. passport, or other compliant documents.
While the program may help some avoid missing their flight, it is not guaranteed to work-and for many, it’s a reminder to get their documents in order before their next trip.
Overview
TSA ConfirmID is a paid alternative identity verification process. It applies to domestic travelers aged 18 or older who show up at the airport without a compliant ID.
The $45 fee does not guarantee clearance through security. It simply gives TSA permission to attempt to confirm your identity using biographic and biometric data. If that process fails or flags any inconsistency, you can still be denied boarding.
Fee
The TSA ConfirmID fee is:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount | $45 |
| Validity | 10 days from payment |
| Refundable | No |
| Covers | One or more trips in 10 days |
So if you’re taking a round trip within 10 days, you’ll only pay once. But frequent travelers without proper ID may end up paying multiple times unless they update their documents.
Process
TSA encourages travelers to start the ConfirmID process online before arriving at the airport. Here’s how it works:
- Visit the government’s ConfirmID portal
- Enter your name, travel dates, and other personal details
- Answer security questions
- Pay the $45 non-refundable fee
- Receive a digital receipt to show at security
At the checkpoint, a TSA officer will:
- Ask for your digital ConfirmID receipt
- Review any ID you do have
- Confirm your name, address, and date of birth
- Determine whether to allow you through
If the system cannot verify your identity or there are mismatches, you may be denied access, despite payment.
Who Pays
Most adult travelers without acceptable ID will need to use ConfirmID and pay the fee.
| Group | ConfirmID Fee Applies? |
|---|---|
| Adults 18+ without valid ID | Yes |
| Children under 18 | No, if traveling with adult |
| Passengers with valid REAL ID or passport | No |
| Those with lost/stolen IDs | Yes, if no replacement |
ConfirmID is optional, but if you decline and lack proper ID, you will not be allowed through TSA screening.
Avoiding the Fee
The easiest way to avoid the $45 ConfirmID fee is to travel with a REAL ID or other TSA-accepted document, including:
- U.S. passport or passport card
- State-issued REAL ID
- Enhanced driver’s license or ID
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- Certain DHS-approved immigration documents
Temporary paper licenses and expired IDs are not accepted for boarding domestic flights.
Timing
If you plan to fly in early February and haven’t yet upgraded your ID, time is limited. For example, in Ohio, REAL ID cards are mailed within 10 business days, but delays of up to 28 days are possible.
| State (example) | REAL ID Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| Ohio | 10 business days (approx.) |
| Max Wait Before Reporting | 28 days |
Last-minute applicants could find themselves paying TSA instead of using a compliant ID – and risking additional delays at the airport.
Changes
The new TSA fee comes after several other airport rule changes over the past year:
- July 2025: “Shoes off” rule ended at most checkpoints
- Late 2025: Gas-powered hair tools restricted from checked luggage
- Battery reminders: Lithium power banks must be carried on
These shifts reflect a broader focus on identity and security documentation, rather than just physical screening procedures. Travelers are now expected to prove who they are – clearly and quickly – before they even pass through a metal detector.
For most, the change will go unnoticed. But for others, it adds pressure to upgrade documents or pay the price – both financially and in time.
FAQs
What is TSA ConfirmID?
It’s a $45 identity check for travelers without valid ID.
Is the $45 ConfirmID fee refundable?
No, the fee is non-refundable even if you’re denied entry.
How long does ConfirmID last?
It allows travel for up to 10 days after payment.
Can children use ConfirmID?
No, children under 18 don’t need ID when flying with an adult.
