Atlanta Joins Chicago O’Hare, Dallas–Fort Worth, Denver, Detroit, Las Vegas, and More in TSA Eighteen Dollar Identity Verification Program: Here is Everything Travellers Should Know

Published on November 23, 2025

Travel And Tour World urges every traveler to pay attention because TSA $18 identity verification is becoming a major part of airport security. With TSA $18 identity verification now proposed at multiple U.S. airports, global travelers must understand how TSA $18 identity verification works, where it applies, and what it means for your journey. In fact, TSA $18 identity verification affects both domestic and international tourists, making it essential for travelers to know before they fly. By learning about TSA $18 identity verification, travelers can avoid delays and navigate U.S. airports confidently.

What is the TSA $18 Identity Verification Fee?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a modernized alternative identity verification program. This program is designed for travelers who do not have a REAL ID or a passport. Instead of facing long manual identity checks, passengers can choose to pay $18 to verify their identity using biometric technology. The $18 verification fee is non-refundable, even if TSA cannot confirm your identity or allow you into the secure area.

The identity verification is valid for ten days once processed, making it useful for travelers with multiple flights in a short period. Importantly, participation in this program is optional, and paying the fee does not guarantee access through security.

Why the TSA Introduced This Program

TSA introduced the $18 identity verification to modernize airport security. Manual identity verification consumes time and resources, especially for passengers without compliant IDs. By using biometric technology, TSA can speed up the process, reduce congestion, and improve airport efficiency.

The program uses face recognition technology to verify identity in real time. TSA explains that the $18 fee helps cover the cost of the technology, program administration, and infrastructure maintenance. This approach ensures that TSA can offer a fast, modern alternative for travelers while maintaining security standards.

Which Airports Are Likely to Use This System First?

Although TSA has not published a full list of airports implementing the $18 fee, several indicators point to likely locations. The program relies on Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2) kiosks and Touchless ID biometric systems, which are already in use at select airports.

Some of the airports already testing biometric systems include:

• Atlanta (ATL)
• Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
• Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)
• Denver (DEN)
• Detroit (DTW)
• Las Vegas (LAS)
• Los Angeles (LAX)
• Newark (EWR)
• LaGuardia (LGA)
• Portland (PDX)
• San Francisco (SFO)
• Seattle (SEA)
• Salt Lake City (SLC)
• Reagan Washington National (DCA)

Other airports already offering self-service or CAT-2-based ID verification include DFW, PHX, DEN, SLC, SJC, MIA, LAS, LAX, BOS, DTW, MCO, ATL, and BWI. Airports with this infrastructure are strong candidates to implement the $18 verification fee first.

What Travelers Should Know Before Flying

Global travelers should take note of the following to ensure a smooth airport experience:

1. Bring a REAL ID or passport if possible.
   Using a standard, accepted ID remains the simplest way to clear security without additional fees.
2. Be ready to pay $18 if needed.
   The alternative identity verification fee provides a convenient option for those without compliant IDs, but it is not mandatory.
3. Check airport updates before travel.
   Since deployment is ongoing, travelers should verify if the airport they are using has CAT-2 or Touchless ID systems active.
4. Allow extra time at checkpoints.
   Using the new biometric kiosks or paying the $18 fee may take longer during early stages of deployment.
5. Understand your options.
   TSA allows travelers to opt out of facial recognition and choose manual verification, although this may take longer.

Travel Tips for International Visitors

• International tourists typically use passports, so the $18 fee may not apply unless a passport is lost or forgotten.
• Travelers on short U.S. visits can benefit from the ten-day validity of the $18 verification program if multiple flights are scheduled.
• Budget-conscious travelers should include this optional fee in their travel costs.
• Tourists unfamiliar with U.S. airport procedures should arrive early to accommodate potential delays in new security processes.

Privacy and Opt-Out Considerations

TSA emphasizes that biometric photos are used solely for verification and are not stored permanently. For travelers concerned about privacy, opting for manual verification is allowed. The TSA $18 identity verification is fully compliant with federal privacy standards. Travelers should be aware that paying the fee does not create permanent records beyond immediate verification.

Potential Risks for Travelers

• No guarantee of entry: Paying the $18 fee does not ensure access to secure areas if verification fails.
• Limited usage: TSA may restrict repeated use for travelers who repeatedly arrive without compliant IDs.
• Gradual rollout: Not all airports are equipped to implement the program immediately, so travelers should check ahead.
• Time delays: First-time users of CAT-2 kiosks may experience slower processing while systems are tested.

Final Guidance for Global Travelers

For tourists, business travelers, and international visitors, the TSA $18 identity verification provides a practical option if compliant IDs are unavailable. However, preparation is key. Travelers should:

• Carry a REAL ID or passport wherever possible.
• Anticipate the $18 verification fee for alternative ID verification.
• Arrive early to navigate new biometric processes.
• Know that TSA allows opting out of facial recognition.
• Stay updated on airport deployment for a smooth journey.

By understanding how TSA $18 identity verification works, travelers can avoid confusion, reduce stress, and experience U.S. airports efficiently. The program reflects TSA’s modernization efforts while offering tourists a practical alternative for smoother travel experiences.