As of today (Feb. 1, 2026) the Transportation Security Administration is rolling out a new $45 fee-based identity verification option for air travelers who arrive at checkpoints without a valid, acceptable form of identification.
Under the policy, TSA will refer passengers who still want to fly to a modernized alternative identity verification system called TSA ConfirmID, which allows travelers to establish their identity at the checkpoint.
The $45 ConfirmID payment covers a 10-day travel period, giving travelers a short-term option if they don’t have an acceptable ID on hand. TSA is also encouraging travelers who do not yet have a REAL ID to schedule an appointment with their local DMV to update their identification as soon as possible.
The original announcement can be found here.