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Travelers Face $18 Fee for ID Verification Starting 2026

12/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without a Real ID-compliant driver's license or passport will pay a fee to pass through airport security.
The Transportation Security Administration announced the Confirm ID system to verify identity, taking 10 to 30 minutes.
The proposed fee to cover verification costs is $18.
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, has faced multiple enforcement delays, with a deadline set for May 7, 2025.

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Story summary

Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without a Real ID-compliant driver's license or passport will pay a fee to pass through airport security.
The Transportation Security Administration announced the Confirm ID system to verify identity, taking 10 to 30 minutes.
The proposed fee to cover verification costs is $18.
The REAL ID Act, enacted in 2005, has faced multiple enforcement delays, with a deadline set for May 7, 2025.