After making REAL ID mandatory, TSA is now offering another way to fly without it. Travelers without a REAL ID or passport can still get through security, but it’ll cost them.
TSA has proposed an $18 fee to get to a new biometric identity system. This could change how people travel, or add an extra step for those rushing without a REAL ID.
The TSA spokesperson said, “This notice serves as a next step in the process in REAL ID compliance, which was signed into law more than 20 years ago and finally implemented by Secretary Noem as of May 2025.” TSA will come up with more details in their announcements in the future.
The TSA has proposed a new rule that would require passengers traveling without a passport or Real ID to pay a fee of $18 in order to have their identity verified by a new biometric kiosk system.
The fee would grant access to TSA checkpoints for 10 days. pic.twitter.com/zaAkQCxFNj
— ABC News (@ABC) November 20, 2025
For now, they are ensuring efficiency at the airport so that people don’t stand in long lines. TSA will install kiosks that verify identity using biometrics for an $18 fee, which is valid for ten days at security checkpoints.
Previously, travelers without a REAL ID had to provide other acceptable forms of ID before flying, even on domestic flights. The process may be different depending on the airport, but the kiosks are meant to create a uniform process for travelers.
So far, there has been no additional fee for travelers, and they were allowed to board after additional checks. Now the additional fee may encourage people to bring REAL IDs. Many people spent a long time in lines waiting for the secondary security check; now the kiosks will replace that to confirm identity.
If you don’t have a real passport or ID you going to have use a special kiosk to verify your identity and pay 18 dollars pic.twitter.com/KtvmX7WBGX
— Charles Coney @wallstreetconsortium on IG (@walstconsortium) November 20, 2025
In some cases, people still may have to go through a supervisor to board the plane. According to TSA, the new system will help to reduce waiting periods and different hiccups that often arise during security checks.
Since rules and regulations keep changing, it’s best to monitor TSA’s latest guidance so that you’re well-informed before going through the airport security. This will help prevent delays and keep you worry-free.
