By Allegra West
Boston University News Service
Starting Feb. 1, 2026, air travelers without an acceptable form of identification will be required to pay a $45 fee.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced the upcoming change on Dec. 1, 2025, with acceptable forms of identification including REAL ID, a state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License or Enhanced ID, U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, among other acceptable forms of identification listed on the TSA website.
Forms of identification that do not meet the new TSA requirements include non-REAL ID-compliant state driver’s licenses or IDs. IDs that are non-Real ID-compliant do not have a blue or gold star in the upper right-hand corner. For example, a California Real ID features a gold bear with a star in the upper-right corner, and a Massachusetts Real ID features a gold star in the upper-right corner.
The new identification requirements apply to both domestic and international flights, but those traveling outside of the country will still be required to carry a passport when flying.
More than 94% of passengers already use their Real ID or other acceptable forms of identification, according to TSA. TSA Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Administrator, Adam Stahl, said that this new enforcement is essential for traveler safety, preventing “terrorists, criminals, and illegal aliens” from accessing domestic transportation.
“The security of the traveling public is our top priority, so we urge all travelers to get a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID as soon as possible to avoid delays and potentially miss flights,” said Stahl.
Flyers without an acceptable form of ID after Feb. 1 can pay the $45 fee before their flight online at TSA ConfirmID. For those who do not pay online, information on how to pay the fee will be available at marked locations in most airports, according to TSA.
