Nearly seven months past the Real ID deadline, the Transportation Security Administration is cracking down on those who are still non-compliant. Come February, travelers without a Real ID or passport will face a $45 fee when they go through airport security checkpoints.
What’s New?
The new process will start on February 1, 2026. Travelers without an acceptable form of ID will need to enter the TSA Confirm.ID verification system to pay the fee before heading through security. Flyers will then show their payment confirmation to TSA agents before going through any checkpoint. This applies to anyone without a Real ID or passport or anyone with a lost or stolen Real ID or passport.
The fee provides access through TSA checkpoints for up to 10 days. After that time runs out, travelers will need to go through the process and pay the fee once again.
Travelers without a Real ID or passport are encouraged to complete the process before arriving at the airport. While passengers can be verified by TSA Confirm.ID at the airport, officials warn of possible delays, which could take up to 30 minutes or more, according to ABC News. Completing the process doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be cleared to pass through security.
Do You Have a Real ID?
According to TSA, 94 percent of travelers across the nation already use a Real ID or another accepted form of identification. But in Virginia, Real IDs are still optional.
The best way to tell if you have a compliant ID is to check for a star in the top right corner of your license. If it’s there, your license is Real ID–compliant. If not, you still have a standard ID.
In order to receive a Real ID in Virginia, whether you’re a first-time driver’s license applicant or already have an ID, you’ll need to fill out an application – online or on paper – and bring required documents to the DMV.
You’ll need:
- Proof of identity and legal presence in the country. (Your current driver’s license won’t cut it — you’ll need a passport or a U.S. birth certificate.)
- Your Social Security number (on your Social Security card or a W-2)
- Two forms of proof of Virginia residency (Acceptable forms include your current Virginia driver’s license, a recent utility bill, a mortgage, or rental lease agreement.)
- If your name on your documents is different from your legal name, you’ll need proof of the name change on a marriage certificate or divorce decree.
Upgrading to a Real ID is $10, plus the cost of a standard driver’s license ($32 for a license renewal or $20 for license replacement).
Feature image, Popelniushka/istock.adobe.com
