If your family has upcoming air travel, a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policy may impact your plans. Beginning February 1, travelers who arrive at airport security without a REAL ID–compliant license or a valid passport will be required to pay a $45 verification fee before they are allowed to proceed through the checkpoint.
This new charge is part of TSA’s ongoing REAL ID rollout and is designed to cover the administrative and technology costs involved in verifying a traveler’s identity when they don’t have acceptable identification on hand. According to the agency, this cost will now be carried by travelers rather than taxpayers.
For families, the biggest consideration is preparation. Anyone age 18 or older must present a compliant ID to pass through security. Those who don’t have one will need to complete an online identity verification process at TSA.gov, which includes submitting biometric or biographical information and paying the $45 fee. After finishing the steps, travelers receive a confirmation email to show at the checkpoint.
TSA notes the process typically takes 10–15 minutes but can take 30 minutes or longer—and there is no guarantee that verification will be approved. Travelers who reach the checkpoint without an acceptable ID will be directed out of line to complete the online process before rejoining security.
The verification is valid for up to 10 days, which may help families traveling on a short trip. However, anyone who travels again without a REAL ID after that window will need to pay the fee again.
The agency estimates that about 94 percent of travelers already use a REAL ID or other approved ID, but for parents planning holiday travel, spring break flights, or college drop-offs, now is the time to double-check your family’s documents to avoid delays—and unexpected fees—at the airport.
