Starting February 1, 2026, travelers who arrive at airport security checkpoints without valid identification, such as a passport or Real ID, will face a $45 charge imposed by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

This new policy, detailed in a proposed rule published in the Federal Register, marks an increase from the previously suggested fee of $18.

TSA officials have explained that the fee adjustment comes after a comprehensive review revealed that the costs of implementing new technology and covering operational expenses exceeded initial estimates.

Passengers lacking proper ID will have the option to complete identification procedures online via the TSA website and settle the $45 fee there.

Upon completion, travelers will receive an email confirmation, which must be shown to the TSA officer before proceeding through the checkpoint.

The process is predicted to take between 10 and 15 minutes — but could take 30 minutes or longer.

The confirmation will be valid for 10 days from the day of travel, the TSA said. 

Senior TSA officials told Fox News Digital the fee is nonrefundable and is not guaranteed.

“Identity verification is essential to traveler safety, because it keeps terrorists, criminals and illegal aliens out of the skies and other domestic transportation systems such as rail,” said Adam Stahl of the TSA. 

If the TSA is unable to identify a passenger, that individual will not be able to fly, in order to keep the system safe.

If a passenger is in the checkpoint line without an ID, that person will be removed from the queue to fill out the online verification process.

Ninety-four percent of travelers show up to the airport with an acceptable form of ID.

Senior officials say they are working with airlines to help promote the effort in the booking process.

The enforcement comes as Apple Wallet now stores digital passports for screening at 250-plus U.S. airports during domestic travel.