Flying has seen tons of changes this year that we didn’t necessarily see coming.

©DHS.gov

You no longer have to take off your shoes when going through security, it’s possible the amount of liquid allowed in your bags could change (they’re looking at it — we’re crossing our fingers it’ll happen!), and we saw Orlando Airport (MCO) add in dedicated Family Lanes and Honor Lanes for U.S. military members and their families. However, there’s ANOTHER change that’s now taking place at airports across the United States, and it’ll cost you some money you weren’t expecting to spend if you break the rule — not flying with a REAL ID? Well, now it’ll cost you.

ABC News has reported that travelers who don’t have a REAL ID or passport when flying will now be charged $45. TSA announced that this change will take place starting February 1st, 2026. This new rule was proposed in October, and the proposed fee was originally $18.

©FLHSMV.gov

This added fee is part of TSA’s next phase of the REAL ID implementation process. This requires individuals to verify their identity through a biometric or biographic system if they don’t have a compliant form of identification before they’re able to cross through the security checkpoint.

When asked about the fee, Steve Lorincz, TSA’s deputy executive assistant administrator for security operations, said, “The fee was necessary because we needed to modernize the system. We needed to make sure that the system is safe.” The fee will also cover the administrative and IT costs associated with the program and ensure it’s covered by travelers and not taxpayers who aren’t flying and using the system.

©Department of Homeland Security

If you know you’ll be traveling without a REAL ID after February 1st, you’ll need to go online at TSA.gov and follow the instructions listed to verify your identity and pay the fees. You’ll then receive an email confirmation to show the TSA officer before you can pass through the checkpoint, which will be valid for ten days.

It’s extremely important to note, though, that TSA warns that even with the email confirmation, people without a REAL ID may not be allowed through the checkpoint. About this, Steve Lorincz said, “We still need to go through the process to make sure that we verify who you are. And for whatever reason, if we can’t do that, then you can’t go through the process.”

We’ll continue to keep you updated on all the latest travel news so you feel prepared for your upcoming trip, so stay tuned to DFB.

Full List of TSA Changes at Orlando Airport in 2025

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How do you feel about this change? Tell us in the comments.