Will TSA charge $18 if I don't have a REAL ID?

TSA has proposed an $18 fee for travelers without a REAL ID or other acceptable identification, which is optional but may be required to use new biometric kiosks.

When will the TSA REAL ID fee go into effect?

The effective date is unclear, but it will begin when the TSA opens registrations for the program on its website.

What is the purpose of the TSA's new $18 fee?

The fee is intended to cover the costs of developing and maintaining a new biometric kiosk system for identity verification.

Home / Business and Economy / TSA Security Could Cost $18 Without REAL ID

TSA Security Could Cost $18 Without REAL ID

21 Nov, 2025

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Summary

TSA proposes an $18 fee for travelers lacking REAL ID.
The fee covers a new biometric kiosk system for identity verification.
Payment is optional, but no compliant ID risks flight denial.

TSA Security Could Cost $18 Without REAL ID

The Transportation Security Administration is considering implementing a new fee of $18 for air travelers who do not present a REAL ID or an alternative acceptable form of identification at security checkpoints. This proposed charge aims to offset expenses associated with a new biometric kiosk system that promises faster identity verification processes. Flyers have the option to pay this fee, but failing to do so may result in denial of boarding.

The new technology, which requires the fee for access, is intended to streamline the identity verification process compared to current manual checks. This system aims to reduce time and resources spent on verifying individuals without compliant IDs, who currently undergo more rigorous checks. However, the TSA emphasizes that the kiosks are an alternative verification method and do not guarantee passage through security.

This initiative is part of the ongoing effort to enforce the REAL ID Act, enacted over 20 years ago and slated for full implementation. The TSA has indicated that further details regarding the fee collection and payment methods will be released soon. Currently, approximately 94% of travelers have compliant identification.