As federal REAL ID enforcement continues across the United States, travelers who arrive at airport security without compliant identification may now face an additional cost: a $45 charge tied to a nationwide identity verification option administered by the Transportation Security Administration.
The policy applies in every state, affecting passengers who attempt to board domestic flights without a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or another federally accepted form of identification.
What the $45 Charge Is — and What It Is Not
The $45 charge is not a fine or punishment. Instead, it is a user fee for an enhanced identity verification process offered by TSA to travelers who lack acceptable identification at airport checkpoints.
Passengers without REAL ID may be given the option to submit to additional screening and identity checks. If TSA is able to confirm the traveler’s identity through this process, the passenger may be allowed to proceed through security. If identity cannot be confirmed, boarding may still be denied — even after payment.
Why This Is Happening Nationwide
The policy stems from full enforcement of the REAL ID Act, which established federal standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards used for domestic air travel.
After nearly two decades of delays, REAL ID enforcement began in 2025. Travelers must now present either:
A REAL ID–compliant driver’s license or state ID
Or an alternative federally accepted ID, such as a U.S. passport or military ID
Millions of Americans still carry non-compliant licenses. Rather than denying access outright, TSA implemented the paid verification option as a nationwide backup system.
How the TSA Verification Process Works
Across all states, travelers without REAL ID may experience:
A $45 identity verification fee
Extended questioning and screening
Longer wait times at security checkpoints
The fee applies per verification period and does not guarantee boarding. TSA retains full authority to deny access if identity cannot be sufficiently verified.
How to Avoid the Fee
Travelers can avoid the $45 charge entirely by obtaining a REAL ID from their state motor vehicle agency. REAL ID–compliant licenses are typically marked with a star in the upper portion of the card and are valid for domestic air travel nationwide.
Alternatively, travelers may use other federally accepted identification, such as a passport, which remains valid for both domestic and international flights.
What Travelers Should Do Now
With REAL ID enforcement now active nationwide, travelers are strongly encouraged to:
Check whether their current ID is REAL ID–compliant
Apply for a REAL ID well before travel dates
Carry a passport if their license is not compliant
Failing to do so may result in additional screening, delays, or the $45 verification charge at airport security.
Bottom Line
TSA’s $45 identity verification option applies nationwide
The fee is not a penalty, but a service charge
Payment does not guarantee boarding
REAL ID or a passport remains the simplest and least expensive solution
As enforcement continues across all 50 states, travelers should confirm their identification status before heading to the airport to avoid surprises at the checkpoint.
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