Americans without a REAL ID or updated passport will have the option to fly in the new year, but they’ll have to pay extra.
The Transportation Security Administration announced a new temporary option for airport identification launching in February called the “TSA Confirm ID.”
This form of identification is good for travelers who may have lost their REAL ID or passport leading up to a flight or haven’t yet renewed them. TSA says the ID will cost $45 and will be good for 10 days.
However, TSA still says travelers who do not have a REAL ID must schedule an appointment at their local Department of Motor Vehicles to update their ID as soon as possible.
As of December 2025, all travelers 18 and over must have a REAL ID, Enhanced ID, valid passport, passport card or a Homeland Security Trusted Traveler card to board a domestic flight within the United States. Valid passports are still required to travel internationally.
Travelers who arrive to an airport without an acceptable or non-REAL ID compliant state identification will be referred to the TSA Confirm ID process for identify verification upon TSA check-in before the security line. The fee will be able to be paid online before arriving at your local airport, TSA said.
What is REAL ID?
A REAL ID is a federally compliant, state DMV-issued driver license, learner permit or non-driver ID that will be required to board flights within the U.S. or to enter certain federal buildings.
In 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID Act out of the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the federal government set security standards for driver’s licenses, permits and ID cards, as part of measures to prevent incidents such as the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks from happening again.
On May 7, the law was passed and implemented across the country. TSA says over 94% of passengers already have a real ID or other identification, which could make wait times longer for passengers who don’t provide valid identification.
How do I know my license is a REAL ID?
A REAL ID looks almost identical to the standard license issued state-by-state, but has a black circle with a star at the top right corner of the card.
An Enhanced ID is another valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification at airports and will have an American flag at the top right corner of the card.
To find out how to apply for a REAL ID, visit the New York State DMV website or call your local DMV office.
Lower Hudson Valley DMVs
Contributing: Lohud’s Michael McKinney and Hartriono Sastrowardoyo
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: TSA announces new options to fly for those without REAL ID
Reporting by Alexandra Rivera, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
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