If you’ve been shrugging off the REAL ID deadline because the May 7, 2025 rollout seemed surprisingly uneventful, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) just gave travelers a big reason to pay attention again. A newly announced fee, far higher than originally expected, will soon hit anyone who shows up to the airport without a REAL ID compliant license or an acceptable alternative.
Starting February 1, 2026, travelers who arrive at airport security without a REAL ID compliant license or another approved form of ID such as a passport will be charged $45 for a temporary screening option that allows them to fly. The fee covers a ten-day travel window, which may help if you’re taking a round trip during that period, but it is still a steep price for something that once cost nothing.
According to Reuters, TSA had initially signaled a much lower $18 fee. Officials now say the cost of offering this “enhanced screening alternative” ended up far higher than forecast, prompting the price hike before the program even launched.
What Happens If You Don’t Pay in Advance?
Travelers will be able to pay the fee ahead of time, and TSA is strongly encouraging it. If you wait until you reach the airport, the payment process could take up to 30 minutes and may add stress to your departure day. The fee is nonrefundable even if you miss your flight.
TSA says exceptions may be granted only in extraordinary circumstances.
Who Actually Needs a REAL ID?
If you’re over 18 and flying domestically, you will need a REAL ID compliant license or one of several alternative forms of ID the TSA already accepts. These include:
-
U.S. or foreign passports
-
Department of Defense IDs
-
DHS trusted traveler cards such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
-
Other federally approved IDs
Children under 18 still do not need ID to fly when traveling with an adult.
Reuters reports that about 94% of travelers already present valid IDs, so most flyers are covered, but the remaining 6% are now facing a potential extra cost.
A Long Road to Enforcement
Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005 following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission. After nearly twenty years of delays and extensions, the rule finally took effect in May 2025, but enforcement has remained loose until now.
That is about to change.
What To Do Now
-
Check your driver license for the REAL ID star marking
-
If yours is not compliant apply for a REAL ID or passport as soon as possible
-
If you already have a passport bring it when you fly and add it to Apple Wallet if your state allows it
-
If you lack both REAL ID and a passport plan extra time for airport security
-
If you choose to pay the fee make sure your round trip falls within the ten-day window