Beginning February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is enforcing a $45 fee for all domestic travelers without a “Real” ID.
A “Real” ID is a state-issued driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards. Real IDs are often marked with a gold or black star. However, they are nonessential for tasks such as voting or driving. Currently, over 94% percent of passengers use Real IDs or other accepted forms of identification at airports.
The Real ID Act was passed by Congress in 2005, in response to the September 11 attacks, to strengthen the security of federal identification and reduce identity fraud and terrorism. However, the change was enforced 20 years later, after delays due to states resisting compliance, lack of funding, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
This change will take place almost 10 months after the policy was formally enacted — starting May 7, all domestic travelers will be required to have a Real ID to fly. Between May 7, 2025, and February 1, 2026, all travelers are given an alternative screening free of charge, verifying identity through biographic and biometric data collection. According to government officials, the requirement’s purpose is to enhance safety and refine security in airports, and the purpose of the fee is to recover costs put towards the new screening system.
The $45 fee acts as a temporary ten-day pass for customers to use alternative screening practices. Customers with a round-trip of 11 days or longer pay $90. Additionally, alternative screening does not guarantee entry. Those who fail the verification cannot proceed and do not receive a refund.
Along with a hefty fee, those who use alternative screening should expect an extra 15-30 minutes of security wait time. While passengers with a Real ID can often opt out of biometric, face recognition scans, those without a Real ID generally must comply to proceed.
Massachusetts residents have the option to receive either a standard or a Real ID when obtaining or renewing their license. Those looking to update standard IDs can do so through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV). However, there are many alternatives. Passports, Global Entry cards, Military IDs, and Green Cards are all accepted at airport security. Additionally, children under 18 years of age are exempt from the policy when traveling with an adult. While a Concord Academy ID is not a federal form of identification, it can be used for students flying to and from Boston under 18.