ALEXANDRIA, Virginia –
On Feb. 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, will introduce a new option to allow travelers without a REAL ID compliant license/ID or other acceptable form of identification to board commercial flights.
The program requires travelers to complete an online form and pay a $45 fee to use TSA ConfirmID to attempt to verify the traveler’s identity. Verification of identity is not guaranteed.
This expense is not reimbursable for Department of War service members and civilians on official travel.
Since last year, U.S. travelers have been required to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID or another acceptable form of identification to board commercial flights. Travelers who fail to produce a REAL ID or an accepted alternative may not be allowed through TSA security checkpoints.
REAL ID-compliant cards have a star marking on the upper top portion of the card. U.S. Department of War IDs, including IDs issued to dependents and Common Access Cards, are acceptable alternatives to a REAL ID.
Other acceptable forms of ID accepted at TSA Checkpoints include a U.S. passport or U.S. passport card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), and state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License. Children under 18 are not required to provide identification when traveling within the United States.
For a complete list of acceptable alternative forms of identification or for more information, visit TSA.gov.