In May 2025, the TSA initiated a requirement for passengers to possess a REAL ID or a passport to fly; however, it remains feasible to fly without these identification documents by undergoing additional identity verification. On November 20, 2025, the TSA revealed a new fee for travelers lacking required identification documents, set to take effect on February 1, 2026. This initiative, known as the Modernized Alternative Identity Verification Program, will impose a $45 fee on adults aged 18 and older to authenticate their identity through biometric and biographic data. The original expectation for the fee was $18, but the adjustment aims to offset the program’s expenses and motivate more travelers to secure a REAL ID.
Travelers have the option to navigate the verification process and remit the fee online prior to their arrival at the airport, obtaining a receipt to show to TSA officials. Should a traveler arrive without an acceptable ID or receipt, they must exit the security queue to complete the process, with QR codes positioned near checkpoints for ease of access. The verification process is projected to last 10-15 minutes and includes choices such as passport lookup and knowledge-based inquiries.
The updated system is designed to enhance identity verification efficiency and lessen the manual labor required by TSA personnel. Although the $45 fee exceeds initial forecasts, the system provides a more streamlined method for travelers without an eligible ID to verify their identity. This adjustment is perceived as a beneficial change, despite the high cost, as it facilitates a more uniform verification process and could potentially expedite the screening process for those who complete it in advance.