### TSA Proposes $18 Fee for Travelers Lacking Real ID: A New Era in Airport Security The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a proposed rule that would require travelers without a Real ID or passport to pay an $18 fee for identity verification at airport checkpoints. This initiative aims to cover the costs associated with implementing a modernized identity verification system. The fee is part of a broader effort to enhance security measures and streamline the travel process for those who do not possess the required identification [https://patch.com/rhode-island/across-ri/tsa-can-charge-you-18-if-you-fly-without-real-id][https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2025/11/20/tsa-proposes-air-passengers-without-a-real-id-biometric-scan]. ### Breakdown of the Proposed TSA Fee Structure 1. **Fee Implementation**: - Travelers without a Real ID or passport will incur an $18 fee for identity verification at TSA checkpoints [https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/national-international/tsa-airport-security-fee-proposal/4305538]. 2. **Biometric Verification**: - The fee will facilitate the use of biometric kiosks designed to verify identities, providing an alternative to traditional identification methods [https://www.themirror.com/travel/tsa-real-id-change-fee-1515737]. 3. **Rationale Behind the Fee**: - The TSA states that the fee is intended to "address the government-incurred costs" associated with the new verification system [https://abcnews.go.com/US/real-id-cost-18-tsa-checkpoints-proposed-rule/story?id=127690599]. 4. **Public Reaction**: - Initial responses from travelers have been mixed, with some expressing concern over the additional cost while others see it as a necessary measure for enhanced security [https://fox10phoenix.com/news/flying-without-real-id-could-soon-cost-you-airport]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data on TSA's New Fee - **Fee Amount**: $18 for identity verification. - **Implementation Date**: Proposed for future implementation, with no specific date announced yet. - **Public Sentiment**: Travelers are divided on the proposal, with some supporting enhanced security measures and others concerned about the financial burden [https://news4sanantonio.com/news/nation-world/tsa-to-introduce-18-fee-for-passengers-without-real-id-or-passport-at-airport-checkpoints-homeland-security-kristi-noem-airtravel-biometric-kiosk-security-checkpoint-identify-verification-transportation]. ### Conclusion: Navigating the New TSA Fee Landscape In summary, the TSA's proposed $18 fee for travelers without a Real ID or passport marks a significant shift in airport security protocols. 1. **Fee Introduction**: The TSA aims to implement this fee to cover the costs of a new biometric verification system. 2. **Public Response**: Mixed reactions highlight the ongoing debate about security versus convenience and cost. 3. **Future Implications**: As the TSA moves forward with this proposal, travelers will need to adapt to the new requirements to avoid additional fees. This initiative underscores the TSA's commitment to enhancing security while also addressing the logistical challenges posed by travelers lacking proper identification [https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/airline-news/2025/11/20/tsa-new-fee-no-real-id-travelers/87375360007].