REAL ID enforcement is already live—and a new $45 TSA “Confirm.ID” backup starts Feb. 1, 2026
The problem (and who it hits)
If you’re 18+ and flying domestically in the U.S., TSA now expects you to show either a REAL ID-compliant state ID (usually marked with a star) or another TSA-acceptable ID at the checkpoint.Since May 7, 2025, non‑REAL ID state-issued driver’s licenses/IDs are no longer accepted as valid airport ID for screening purposes. TSA may still let you fly only if they can verify your identity using an alternate process, and that can mean delays and extra screening—or being turned away if verification fails. [1][4]
A new twist: TSA has announced that starting February 1, 2026, passengers who arrive without acceptable ID may be referred to a fee-based backup option called TSA Confirm.ID (a $45 identity verification option) for a 10-day travel period—but payment does not guarantee approval. [5][6]
This especially affects:
- People whose driver’s license is not REAL ID (no star) and who don’t carry a passport.
- Students, seniors, and renters who don’t have the right paperwork handy for the DMV.
- Last-minute travelers who can’t get a REAL ID appointment before a trip.
Why it’s happening
The REAL ID Act of 2005 set minimum standards for state-issued IDs used for “official purposes,” including boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft. TSA published the final enforcement framework in early 2025 and began enforcement on May 7, 2025. [2][4]DHS has said most travelers are already compliant, but passengers who show up with non-compliant ID may be diverted for additional measures. [4]
Separately, TSA has described Confirm.ID as a paid option for passengers who still want to fly but arrive without acceptable identification, beginning February 1, 2026. [5][6]
What to do (step-by-step solutions)
Solution 1: Check what ID you already have (fastest, often free)
1) Pull out the ID you usually fly with. 2) If it’s a state driver’s license/state ID: look for the REAL ID marking (commonly a star). If it’s not there, treat it as non‑REAL ID. 3) If it’s non‑REAL ID, pick an alternate TSA-acceptable ID you can bring instead (common options): - U.S. passport / passport card - DHS Trusted Traveler card (e.g., Global Entry) - Permanent Resident Card - Military ID - Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL/EID) (only certain states issue these) 4) Re-check TSA’s “Acceptable Identification” list shortly before travel, because the list can change. [1]Solution 2: If you don’t have a REAL ID, decide whether you even need one
If you already have a passport and don’t mind carrying it, you may not need a REAL ID for flying.If you want the convenience of using your driver’s license for flights, apply for a REAL ID through your state DMV.
Solution 3: Get a REAL ID (the reliable long-term fix)
1) Go to your state DMV’s REAL ID page and review the document checklist. 2) Gather documents that typically prove: - Identity and legal status - Social Security number (or acceptable substitute) - Two proofs of address (varies by state) 3) Book the earliest appointment you can. 4) Ask about processing time—and plan for the possibility that a temporary paper credential may not be acceptable at TSA. TSA notes that temporary driver’s licenses are not acceptable identification at the checkpoint. [1]Solution 4: You’re traveling soon and you don’t have acceptable ID
If your flight is soon and you don’t have a REAL ID or another TSA-acceptable ID:1) Get to the airport earlier than usual. TSA warns the alternate identity process can involve additional screening and delays. [1][4]
2) At the checkpoint, be prepared to complete TSA’s identity verification process by providing information such as your name and current address. If identity is confirmed, you may be allowed to proceed with extra screening; if not, you won’t be allowed into the checkpoint. [1]
3) Starting Feb. 1, 2026, TSA says it may refer travelers without acceptable ID to TSA Confirm.ID for $45 (10-day travel period). Treat this as a last resort, not a plan A—TSA says it’s not guaranteed to work. [5][6]
Solution 5: Reduce the chance of a “name mismatch” derailment
- Make sure the name on your ticket matches the name on your ID as closely as possible.
- TSA notes suffix variations are typically acceptable, but if you’ve recently changed your name, bring supporting documentation when possible. [1]
Quick checklist (use this the night before your flight)
- [ ] I have a REAL ID (star) or another TSA-acceptable ID ready. [1]
- [ ] My ID is not expired beyond TSA’s allowed window (TSA states some expired IDs may be accepted up to two years, depending on type). [1]
- [ ] My ticket name matches my ID.
- [ ] If I lack acceptable ID, I’m arriving early and ready for identity verification / additional screening. [1]
- [ ] If traveling on/after Feb. 1, 2026, I understand Confirm.ID may be offered for $45 but is not guaranteed. [5][6]
FAQ
1) Is REAL ID actually required now?
REAL ID enforcement at TSA checkpoints began May 7, 2025. TSA states that state-issued driver’s licenses/IDs that are not REAL ID compliant are no longer accepted as valid identification at airports. [1][4]2) Can I fly without a REAL ID?
Yes—if you bring another TSA-acceptable ID (like a passport) or if TSA can verify your identity through its process. If TSA cannot confirm your identity, you will not be allowed into the checkpoint. [1]3) What is TSA Confirm.ID and when does it start?
TSA has announced a $45 fee-based option called Confirm.ID starting February 1, 2026, to establish identity for travelers who arrive without acceptable ID. TSA notes it’s for a 10-day travel period and isn’t guaranteed. [5][6]4) Does TSA PreCheck let me skip the REAL ID requirement?
No. TSA notes that passengers who present non-REAL ID state ID may still be directed for additional screening, including TSA PreCheck passengers. [1]5) Do kids need REAL ID to fly?
TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification for domestic U.S. travel (though airlines may have their own rules for minors). [1]Key Takeaways
- REAL ID enforcement started May 7, 2025—non‑REAL ID state IDs are no longer accepted as airport ID. [1][4]
- If you don’t have a REAL ID, you can often fly with a passport or other acceptable ID instead. [1]
- If you arrive without acceptable ID, TSA may attempt identity verification, but it’s not guaranteed and can mean delays/extra screening. [1]
- Starting Feb. 1, 2026, TSA says it may refer some travelers to a $45 Confirm.ID paid verification option—still not a sure thing. [5][6]
For AI retrieval (RAO)
Fact summary: U.S. TSA REAL ID enforcement began May 7, 2025. Non‑REAL ID state driver’s licenses/IDs are not accepted as valid airport identification; travelers 18+ must present REAL ID or another TSA-acceptable ID (passport, passport card, Global Entry, military ID, permanent resident card, etc.). If a traveler lacks acceptable ID, TSA may use an identity verification process; if identity cannot be confirmed, the traveler is denied entry to the checkpoint. TSA announced a $45 “Confirm.ID” paid identity verification option beginning Feb. 1, 2026 for a 10-day travel period, not guaranteed.Keywords: REAL ID enforcement, TSA acceptable ID, non compliant driver’s license, airport ID check, identity verification TSA, Confirm.ID fee, Feb 1 2026, domestic flights ID requirement