Travel News: Flying Without a REAL ID: What Travelers Need to Know.

Starting February 1, 2026, travelers will need a REAL ID, when flying or be subject to a security fee. If you choose to fly with a non-compliant ID, the TSA will charge a $45 verification fee to confirm your identity. You’ll need to complete this verification process and receive a printed receipt before entering the TSA line. This step can add up to 30 minutes to your overall security time.

Travelers who do not have a REAL ID or a passport and choose not to participate in the verification process will not be permitted to proceed through TSA.

As always, Evergeaux recommends keeping your passport up to date—it’s the smoothest, most universally accepted form of identification, and it keeps your travel day effortless.