Illinois Travelers: Don’t Have a REAL ID? TSA Is Charging $45 Fee

If you thought the REAL ID drama was over, surprise. TSA just announced that starting in 2026, if you arrive to the airport without an acceptable ID, you can still fly— but it's going to cost you more than we thought.

I just recently traveled from O'Hare International Airport, and the TSA agents gave me a "free pass" since I didn't have a REAL ID. It was a last-minute trip, and I didn't have time to get an "acceptable" form of identification, even though I did have my Driver's License. Next time, I don't think I'll be as lucky.

Illinois Travelers: Don’t Have a REAL ID? TSA Is Charging $45 Fee

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Now, TSA has announced starting February 1st, 2026, they're charging $45 if you don't have a REAL ID on you when you arrive at the airport. The fee gets you access to TSA's new Confirm.ID system, which is basically their "identity verification for the forgetful."

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It covers a 10-day travel period, so if you're flying out and back within that window, you're all set.

"TSA urges all travelers who do not have a REAL ID to pay the fee online before traveling. For passengers who arrive at the airport without paying the fee, information about how to pay for the TSA Confirm.ID option will be available at marked locations at or near the checkpoint in most airports. Travelers who undergo TSA Confirm.ID processing at an airport should expect delays." [TSA.gov]

Illinois travelers know airport chaos. Right now, 94% of people already have a REAL ID or something that works, but if you're one of the 6% still living without one, TSA is strongly hinting that you should go to the DMV soon. Don't wait to do it.

TSA’s list of acceptable forms of ID: TSA.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.