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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a new proposed rule that could impose a fee on air travelers who arrive at security checkpoints without a valid form of identification. Under the proposal, passengers aged 18 and over who require alternative identity verification would be charged $18. This measure is designed to offset the costs of using a third-party service to confirm a traveler's identity, a process that the agency currently provides at no charge.
The proposed regulation comes as federal authorities prepare for the final implementation of the REAL ID Act. After multiple delays, full REAL ID enforcement begins May 7, 2025, a critical deadline for domestic travelers. Starting on that date, every passenger will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, a state-issued enhanced driver’s license, or another acceptable form of identification to fly within the United States and access certain federal facilities. Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, passport card, or Department of Defense ID.
Passed by Congress in 2005 based on a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission, the REAL ID Act establishes minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards. While the alternative verification process will remain an option, the TSA is considering charging travelers a fee for this service to encourage compliance and recoup expenses. According to reports, the manual verification can be time-consuming for both passengers and security officers.
The proposal will be published in the Federal Register, after which a public comment period will open before any final rule is adopted. Until the May 7, 2025 deadline, travelers can still use their standard, non-compliant driver's licenses. To avoid potential fees and delays, officials are urging Americans to check their licenses for a star marking, which typically indicates compliance, and to upgrade their ID if necessary. Travelers should remember that they must present a REAL ID-compliant document or another acceptable form of identification at the checkpoint once the mandate takes full effect.
