At a Glance
- TSA will charge $45 for non-REAL ID travelers starting Feb 1, 2026.
- Over 94% of travelers were compliant in 2025.
- The new identity verification is valid for 10 days.
- Why it matters: It could affect anyone planning a domestic flight who lacks a compliant ID.
If your driver’s license or state ID doesn’t have a star, you may face a $45 fee to fly in 2026.
What the New Rule Means for Travelers
TSA will refer all passengers who do not present an acceptable form of ID to an optional process before entering the security line.
Adam Stahl stated:
> “This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer.”
The optional process requires you to submit biographic and/or biometric information, and the verification is valid for 10 days.
- $45 fee
- 10-day validity
- Optional TSA Confirm.ID system
How to Check Your ID
If your card has a star-black or gold, filled or outlined-you are REAL ID compliant.
States that issue REAL ID-compliant IDs are:
| State | ID type |
|---|---|
| Minnesota | REAL ID |
| Michigan | REAL ID |
| New York | REAL ID |
| Vermont | REAL ID |
| Washington | Enhanced driver’s license |
Other acceptable IDs include:
- U.S. passport
- Department of Defense ID
- Tribal Enhanced Card
- Foreign passport
- Veteran Health ID
- DHS trusted traveler card
- Permanent resident card
- Border crossing card
- HSPD-12 PIV card
- Canadian provincial driver’s license
- Transportation worker credential
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential
Clear ID, Apple Digital ID, and Google ID passes are also accepted at select airports. Expired IDs are accepted for up to 2 years past date.
Key Takeaways
- Starting Feb 1, 2026, TSA will charge $45 for non-REAL ID travelers.
- Over 94% of travelers were compliant in 2025.
- The new identity verification is valid for 10 days.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a one-time trip, checking your ID now can save you time and money at the airport.
