Starting February 1, 2026, TSA is tightening REAL ID controls in the US – anyone who does not have a REAL ID will be forced to go through ConfirmID and pay $45. Find out who will be affected by the new rules and what are the alternatives

Order an immigration guide – and get clear instructions for your legal move abroad

GET

Travelers flying domestically in the United States should urgently check their documents. Starting February 1, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is moving to a new stage of REAL ID control. Passengers who do not have an ID card that meets REAL ID requirements will be able to pass control, but will have to pay $45 for this.

This is not a fine in the classic sense, but a special identification procedure that the TSA is implementing for those who have not yet issued a REAL ID.

We will tell you about the main changes for travelers in this article.

Planning to move abroad or apply for a residence permit? Visit World's “Immigration Guide” will help you quickly understand the requirements, documents and procedures in the selected country. The guide contains the current rules for obtaining a residence permit, permanent residence or citizenship, the terms of consideration of applications and the cost of processing. You will receive structured information in PDF format within a few minutes after ordering. Read the guide and prepare for immigration without unnecessary stress.

What is REAL ID and why is it checked?

REAL ID is an ID card with increased security standards, which was introduced after the passage of the REAL ID Act in 2005. The law was a response to the recommendations of the 9/11 commission and was intended to unify document requirements across states.

Typically, REAL ID is a driver's license or ID card with a special star-shaped marker at the top of the document. In some states, the symbol may differ, for example, in California it is a "golden bear".

According to the TSA, about 94% of passengers currently passing through control at US airports already have REAL ID or an alternative document, such as a passport. The problem remains for about 6% of travelers.

What changes from February 1?

On February 1, TSA officially launches the ConfirmID system, an online procedure for passengers without REAL ID. If a person has not had time to issue a document, they will be able to:

- Enter their data in the ConfirmID system in advance;

- Pay a fee of $45;

- Receive a receipt and present it when passing through security control at the airport along with their existing ID.

During the check, the passenger will be asked to confirm their full name, residential address and date of birth. The identification procedure itself usually lasts 10-15 minutes, but in some cases it can take up to half an hour or more.

How many times do passengers without REAL ID in the USA have to pay?

The $45 fee is not a one-time fee. It is valid for 10 days from the start date of the trip, which the passenger indicates in the ConfirmID system. That is, if you fly there and back within this period, you will not have to pay extra. But after the 10 days are up, the fee will have to be paid again for the next trip.

Important! $45 is non-refundable, even if plans change.

Can I pay directly at the airport?

Yes, there is such an option. However, the TSA emphasizes that passengers who pay for the procedure directly at the airport lose their place in line and risk being late for their flight. That is why travelers are advised to go through ConfirmID in advance online.

What documents are suitable instead of REAL ID?

In addition to REAL ID, the TSA accepts other documents. Among them are a US passport or foreign passport, military ID, mobile ID, permanent resident card, as well as some documents for participants in the Trusted Traveler programs. The full list is available on the official TSA website.

Does this apply to children?

The rules do not change for children under 18 years of age. They do not need REAL ID or ConfirmID for domestic flights in the USA.

What does the TSA advise?

Security officials emphasize that the ConfirmID system is a temporary solution. For those who plan to continue traveling to the United States, it is much easier and more profitable to apply for a REAL ID at the DMV or the relevant authority of their state than to pay $45 each time and waste time at the airport.

Each country has its own immigration rules, and a mistake at the start can cost time and money. That is why it is worth using the “Immigration Guide” from Visit World, which contains step-by-step instructions, a list of documents and requirements for applicants. The guide will help you understand which status is right for you and how to properly prepare for submitting documents. All information is sent to your email in a convenient PDF format. Go to the guide and plan your move with confidence.

Reminder! The outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus in India has forced airports in Thailand, Nepal, Taiwan and Hong Kong to strengthen medical checks. We've already covered what's known about the virus, the risks for travelers, and safety measures when traveling.

Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.