TSA to Charge $45 Fee for Passengers Without Acceptable ID Starting February 2026

WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration will begin charging a $45 fee to passengers who arrive at airport security checkpoints without an acceptable form of identification starting Feb. 1, 2026, officials said. The fee applies to travelers who do not present valid ID such as a passport or Real ID, and is part of a new verification process designed to enhance security.

Passengers without proper identification will be required to complete an online verification process on the TSA website and pay the nonrefundable fee. After completing the process, travelers will receive an email confirmation to present to TSA officers before proceeding through the checkpoint. The verification process is expected to take between 10 and 15 minutes, though it could take 30 minutes or longer in some cases. The confirmation will be valid for 10 days from the date of travel.

Senior TSA officials explained that the fee was increased from an initially proposed $18 to $45 after a review determined that the costs of new technology and operational expenses were higher than originally projected. Officials emphasized that identity verification is critical to maintaining traveler safety by preventing terrorists, criminals, and unauthorized individuals from accessing domestic transportation systems.

If TSA is unable to verify a passenger’s identity, that individual will not be permitted to fly. Travelers who arrive at checkpoints without ID will be removed from the security line to complete the online process. Officials noted that 94% of travelers currently present acceptable identification at airport checkpoints.

The TSA is coordinating with airlines to promote the new policy during the booking process. This enforcement comes as digital passports stored in Apple Wallet are now accepted for screening at more than 250 U.S. airports during domestic travel.

The new fee and verification process aim to strengthen security measures while providing a clear procedure for travelers who may arrive without proper identification.