The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) first issued a notice on the Federal Register in November proposing an $18 fee for American travelers going through airport security checkpoints without a valid REAL ID or passport. The fee proposition initially sparked controversy across the United States among travelers; however, the agency confirmed on Monday, December 1 , that it will not only go ahead with the charge, but it will also increase it .

Americans clearing airport security checkpoints without a REAL ID or passport will soon have to pay $45 , starting from February 1, 2026 , the TSA has confirmed. However, the extra cost will punish families the most, particularly those who don't travel often, according to its rules' fine print and the nonprofit American Economic

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