Don’t Fly Without a Real ID in 2026, Unless You Want to Pay $45 Extra
If you are I plan to fly in 2026, without a real ID, you could end up paying extra. The Transportation Security Administration announced that starting Feb. 1, travelers who show up at the airport without a real ID or valid passport will face a new $45 ID verification fee. This option replaces a previously proposed $18 fee and still requires a separate biometric analysis to validate a traveler’s identity.
Obtaining a Real ID is simple in most states, especially if you’re renewing a driver’s license. However, if it’s been a while since you’ve visited the DMV or you’re unsure of your current status, it’s worth checking. Use the interactive map below to find out your state’s requirements and ensure you’re ready to fly without additional fees or delays.
This story is part of 12 days of advicehelping you get the most out of your technology, your home and your health this holiday season.
To find out more, find out how use Google Flight Data to find the cheapest flights.
What is a Real ID and how do I know if I have one?
Real IDs or valid passports are required at airport security starting May 7 this year.
Real ID is an enhanced version of a typical driver’s license or state ID card. The new standards were set out in the Real ID Act of 2005, as a way to help authorities thwart terrorism and identity fraud.
Don’t miss any of our unbiased technical content and lab reviews. Add CNET as your preferred Google source.
All 50 states and the District of Columbia now comply with Real ID standards, according to the Department of Homeland Security. If you recently renewed your driver’s license or ID card, they are likely already compliant. If you haven’t updated it in a few years, you probably need to.
Real ID-approved licenses will have one of these stars in the upper right corner.
You can tell by looking at your license: if there is a gold, black or white star in the upper right corner, you have a real ID. (There are some minor variations: California places a white star over the state bear logo, while Maine places it within the state outline.)
What happens if I still don’t have a real ID?
As of May 7, the TSA and other federal agencies have only accepted Real ID-approved licenses and identification cards “for the purpose of accessing federal facilities,” according to DHS.
If you are a U.S. adult without a proper ID, you will need to present a valid passport at airport security checkpoints, even when flying domestically. You can also present one of these other IDs instead:
For now, you can still board domestic flights with a driver’s license or ID card that is not Real ID compliant.
This driver’s license features a Real ID star logo in the upper right corner.
Not having a Real ID-compliant license will not affect other uses of your driver’s license, including verifying your ability to operate a vehicle or purchase alcohol, firearms, or tobacco.
How do I apply for a Real ID in my state?
You can obtain a Real ID from the same state agency that issues your driver’s license. The process typically requires documentation, including proof of identity and U.S. resident or citizen status, proof of your Social Security number, and several proofs of your current address.
You will need to provide originals or hard copies of documents, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, or U.S. passport. Photocopies and screenshots are not accepted. Check your state’s driver’s license agency website for details.
After applying, you will receive a temporary paper ID. You should receive your Real ID-approved license in the mail about three to four weeks later.
With few exceptions, the cost of obtaining a Real ID-compliant license is the same as renewing your license or non-driver ID card.
