### TSA Implements New $45 Fee for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1, 2026 Beginning February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will enforce a new policy requiring travelers in the U.S. to present an accepted form of identification at airport security checkpoints for domestic flights. Those who do not possess a REAL ID or a valid passport will be required to pay a fee of $45 for an alternative identity verification option called "TSA ConfirmID." This change is expected to impact millions of travelers and may lead to longer wait times at airports, as well as restrictions on payment methods for the fee. The TSA aims to enhance security and compliance with federal identification requirements through this initiative [https://www.timesnownews.com/world/us/us-news/tsa-new-45-fee-who-pays-who-doesnt-and-the-role-of-real-id-while-traveling-article-153455255]. ### Overview of the New TSA Fee Structure and Implications 1. **Introduction of the ConfirmID Program**: - The TSA's ConfirmID program will allow travelers without a REAL ID to pay a $45 fee for identity verification at security checkpoints [https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/u-s-travelers-face-new-tsa-fee-as-enhanced-id-regulations-set-to-impact-millions-with-forty-five-dollars-charge-starting-february-first-creating-longer-wait-times-and-payment-restrictions]. 2. **Impact on Travelers**: - Travelers lacking acceptable identification will face longer wait times and potential delays, as the new fee will involve additional screening processes [https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/forgot-your-real-id-tsas-new-45-fee-may-cause-delays-grounding-1771341]. - The fee is expected to create stress and inconvenience for passengers, particularly those who may not be prepared for the new requirements [https://www.inquisitr.com/no-real-id-dont-worry-tsa-will-let-you-fly-for-45]. 3. **Payment Restrictions**: - The TSA has issued guidance on acceptable payment methods for the $45 fee, emphasizing that certain forms of payment will not be accepted [https://www.unilad.com/news/travel/tsa-warning-new-passport-fee-travel-guidelines-314391-20260116]. 4. **Compliance and Enforcement**: - The new fee structure is part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with federal identification regulations, with the TSA urging travelers to prepare in advance [https://www.pennlive.com/news/2026/01/flying-without-a-real-id-prepare-to-pay-as-deadline-looms.html]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Fee Implementation Date**: The ConfirmID program will officially launch on February 1, 2026, coinciding with the enforcement of the new fee [https://www.indexbox.io/blog/tsa-confirmid-45-id-verification-for-travelers-without-real-id-starts-feb-1]. - **Expected Delays**: Travelers without a REAL ID can expect longer wait times at security checkpoints due to the additional verification process [https://www.kshb.com/life/travel/travelers-without-real-id-will-face-45-charge-and-delays-at-airports]. - **Payment Method Guidance**: The TSA has clarified which payment types will be acceptable for the $45 fee, aiming to minimize confusion at airports [https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/flying-without-a-real-id-here-s-what-to-know-about-tsa-s-new-45-option-at-airports-101768536248511.html]. ### Conclusion: Key Takeaways on the TSA's New Fee Policy 1. **New Fee Requirement**: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without a REAL ID or valid passport will incur a $45 fee for identity verification at TSA checkpoints. 2. **Increased Wait Times**: The implementation of the ConfirmID program is likely to result in longer wait times and potential delays for travelers. 3. **Payment Restrictions**: Travelers should be aware of the acceptable payment methods for the fee to avoid complications at the airport. 4. **Preparation is Key**: The TSA encourages all travelers to ensure they have the necessary identification to avoid the fee and associated delays. This new policy represents a significant shift in TSA regulations, aimed at enhancing security while also presenting challenges for travelers who may not be adequately prepared [https://www.wral.com/news/local/travelers-real-id-fee-airport-january-2026].