The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began enforcing this new ID law for air travel at security screening checkpoints on May 7, 2025. If you try to go through security without a REAL ID-compliant form of identification, you may still be allowed to fly ─ but there’s no guarantee. At the very least, TSA officers will give you a warning letter and clear verbal direction to obtain proper identification as soon as possible. Read through the TSA’s info on acceptable identification. Eventually, there will be no exceptions to this requirement. Beginning on February 1, 2026, all travelers without an acceptable ID, including those who present a non-REAL ID-compliant state driver’s license or ID, will be referred to the optional TSA ConfirmID process for identity verification upon TSA check-in and prior to entering the security line. This process will differ airport to airport, and TSA is working with private industry to proactively offer online payment options prior to arrival at the airport. Travelers will be able to pay $45 to use TSA ConfirmID for a 10-day travel period. TSA urges travelers who do not have a REAL ID to schedule an appointment at their local DMV to update their ID as soon as possible.
