US agency will charge $45 fee for air passengers without REAL IDs

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration said on Monday it will begin charging air travelers $45 on February 1 if their IDs do not meet stricter federal standards, a move aimed at encouraging travelers to get the enhanced identity documents.

In May 2025, the TSA began enforcing the standards known as "REAL ID" but gave warnings and conducted enhanced screening for passengers without the new IDs. TSA officials said they would urge passengers without REAL IDs to obtain them or pay the fee before arriving at the airport. The $45 fee will cover travel for a 10-day period.