Travelers without a Real ID will soon face a $45 fee to fly domestically, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced on Monday.

Why it matters: The new charge is more than double what was previously announced.

How it works: Starting Feb. 1, 2026, the new fee will kick in for air travelers. • Passengers will be required to pay $45 in lieu of having a Real ID to cover an additional biometric screening for security. The screening process will take 10-30 minutes. • The fee, which can be paid online in advance or in person, is valid for 10 days at airlines security check points. After that a traveler will have to pay again. • The fee will cover the technology and security software needed. The fee is intended to stay in place, a senior TSA official said, but it will also

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