TSA Alternative Identity Verification Program

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a $45 fee beginning Feb. 1, 2026, for travelers who do not have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification going through airport security.

TSA requires your passport or a state-issued ID or driver's license as your identification when you fly within the U.S. to be REAL ID compliant or you may not be allowed through TSA airport security checkpoints. The REAL ID Act took full effect on May 7, 2025, when the TSA began enforcing the rule that state-issued ID cards or driver’s licenses must be REAL ID-compliant to be accepted for domestic air travel in the U.S.  Acceptable IDs will either have a REAL ID-compliant star marking at the top of the card, or the marking of one of the states that offers Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL): Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont. If you're not sure if your ID complies with the new Department of Homeland Security requirements, check with your state's department of motor vehicles or access the link below.

The TSA is launching an alternative identity verification program, TSA Confirm.ID, for individuals at the TSA checkpoint without the required acceptable form of identification, such as a REAL ID or a passport. This program provides an alternative that may allow these individuals to gain access to the sterile area of an airport if TSA is able to establish their identity. Individuals who choose to use TSA Confirm.ID will be required to pay a non-refundable $45 fee which will allow access to TSA checkpoints for 10 days.

Participation in the TSA Confirm.ID program is optional and does not guarantee an individual will be granted access to the sterile area of an airport. If an individual chooses to use the program and submit the required information, TSA will use the individual’s biographic and/or biometric information to verify identity.

TSA urges all travelers who do not have a REAL ID to pay the fee online before traveling. For passengers who arrive at the airport without paying the fee, information about how to pay for the TSA Confirm.ID option will be available at marked locations at or near the checkpoint in most airports. Travelers who undergo TSA Confirm.ID processing at an airport should expect delays.