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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that starting February 1, 2026, passengers who don’t have an acceptable ID can use TSA Confirm.ID, a new identity check system, by paying a $45 fee. The fee covers travel for 10 days.

TSA encourages travelers without a REAL ID to update their ID at their local DMV as soon as possible. Passengers with a non-REAL ID-compliant license or other unacceptable ID will be sent to TSA Confirm.ID at check-in before going through security. The process may be different at each airport, and TSA is working to let travelers pay online before arriving.

The REAL ID law was passed more than 20 years ago but was fully enforced only in May 2025. Today, more than 94% of travelers already use a REAL ID or another accepted ID. Acceptable forms of ID can be found here.

TSA warns that using TSA Confirm.ID may take extra time and recommends paying the fee online before arriving at the airport.