US Domestic Travel Rules Change: REAL ID Mandatory or Pay $45 From February 1

The US Department of State Consular Affairs has issued a fresh reminder urging travellers to ensure they are REAL ID compliant before boarding domestic flights or accessing certain federal facilities. While the REAL ID program has been operational since May 7, 2025, enforcement is set to tighten further beginning February 1, introducing a financial penalty for non-compliance.

$45 Penalty for Travelling Without REAL ID

Starting February 1, travellers who arrive at airport security checkpoints without a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative form of identification, such as a passport, will be required to pay a $45 fee.

How the Fee Works

• The fee applies to domestic air travel only

• It is charged for identity verification through @TSA ConfirmID

• Passengers without valid ID may still be delayed or denied boarding despite payment

This new measure is aimed at strengthening identity verification and improving airport security efficiency.

What Identification Is Accepted for US Travel?

Domestic Travel

For domestic flights within the US, travellers must carry one valid form of identification, which can include:

• A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID

• A passport book

• A passport card

Carrying both a REAL ID and passport is not required for domestic travel.

International Travel

• A passport book is mandatory for international air travel

• A passport card cannot be used for international flights

Using a passport card or book for domestic flights can help travellers avoid the $45 verification fee.

What Is a REAL ID and Why It Matters

REAL IDs are designed to be more secure and harder to forge than standard identification cards. Under the REAL ID Act, federal agencies including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) may only accept state-issued IDs that meet federal security standards.

How to Identify a REAL ID

• The license or ID card must be issued by a REAL ID-compliant state

• It includes a star marking, flag symbol, or the word “Enhanced”

• Without this marking, the ID is considered non-compliant

Travellers need a REAL ID only if they plan to fly domestically or visit federal facilities.

Noncompliant IDs and Special Cases

Some US states issue noncompliant identification cards, including those provided to undocumented individuals. These cards:

• Clearly state they are not acceptable for REAL ID purposes

• Use distinct colours or designs to avoid confusion

• Are marked in both visual and machine-readable formats

Important Clarification From DHS

The DHS cautions against assuming that possession of a noncompliant card means the holder is undocumented, as individuals may choose noncompliant cards for many lawful reasons.

How to Avoid Travel Disruptions After February 1

Passengers travelling after the enforcement deadline are advised to:

• Carry a REAL ID-compliant license or ID

• Use an acceptable alternative, such as a passport

• Apply for a state-issued REAL ID through their DMV well in advance

Failing to do so could result in additional costs, delays, or denied boarding.

Conclusion

With domestic travel rules tightening in the US, the REAL ID requirement is no longer optional. From February 1, travellers without proper identification will face a $45 TSA identity verification fee, along with potential travel delays. Ensuring compliance by carrying a REAL ID or an acceptable alternative like a passport is now essential for smooth and hassle-free domestic air travel.