Washington Joins Ohio, Texas, Michigan, Florida, California and More in Introducing New Air Traveler Fees for Unverified ID Holders: Everything Travelers Need to Know

Published on December 3, 2025

Washington has joined Ohio, Texas, Michigan, Florida, California, and more in introducing new air traveler fees for unverified ID holders, starting February 1, 2025. This $45 fee encourages travelers to secure approved IDs to avoid delays and maintain air travel security. The initiative, introduced by the Trump administration, aims to ensure that passengers who lack government-approved identification can still proceed with travel by using a temporary TSA-confirmed identification, known as TSA Confirm ID. While the majority of travelers already use acceptable forms of ID, the TSA is urging everyone to adopt REAL IDs or passports to prevent disruptions, streamline the travel process, and enhance security at airports nationwide. As more states adopt these changes, travelers will need to ensure they meet the updated requirements to avoid unnecessary fees and complications at the airport.

New TSA Fee for Travelers Without Approved ID

Starting February 1, 2025, a new $45 fee will be introduced for air travelers who do not possess government-approved identification. This fee, introduced by the Trump administration, will allow travelers to use a temporary TSA-confirmed identification, known as TSA Confirm ID, to ensure their identity is properly verified. The goal of this initiative is to avoid the cost falling on taxpayers and to maintain the security of air travel. While most travelers already present valid IDs like REAL IDs and passports, the TSA is encouraging travelers to obtain these accepted forms of ID to prevent delays and the potential of missing flights.

Acceptable Forms of Identification

To avoid the new fee and ensure smooth travel, passengers must present one of the following approved forms of identification. Below is a table listing these acceptable IDs:

To avoid paying the TSA Confirm ID fee, passengers should ensure they have one of these accepted IDs before traveling. Applications for TSA Confirm ID can be made online prior to departure, with payment options available through pay.gov.

US States Implementing REAL ID for Air Travel

Several states in the U.S. have adopted or are in the process of adopting REAL ID regulations, ensuring that residents meet federal identification standards for air travel and access to federal buildings. Below are eight states that have implemented REAL ID and are encouraging their residents to obtain the necessary identification:

• California: California has fully implemented REAL ID, requiring residents to upgrade their driver’s licenses or IDs for airport security and federal building access. The state offers easy online application options for obtaining REAL ID.
• New York: New York residents are encouraged to get a REAL ID to comply with federal air travel requirements. The state offers a streamlined process for upgrading driver’s licenses or state IDs, ensuring residents meet the federal standards.
• Texas: Texas offers REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses, and residents are urged to obtain them to board flights and access federal facilities. The state’s DMV allows for online applications to make the process more convenient.
• Florida: Florida has adopted REAL ID, and residents need to get an updated license or ID for air travel and entering federal buildings. The state has set up convenient in-person and online processes for obtaining the ID.
• Illinois: Illinois residents can apply for REAL ID-compliant licenses or state IDs. The state DMV has made the process accessible online, ensuring that residents are prepared for travel and federal requirements.
• Michigan: Michigan has implemented REAL ID, and residents are urged to upgrade their licenses. The state allows for an easy application process through the Michigan Secretary of State’s office to meet travel and federal requirements.
• Ohio: Ohio offers REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and ID cards. Residents can apply online and through local BMV offices to ensure they meet the federal identification requirements for domestic air travel and federal building access.
• Washington: Washington has adopted REAL ID standards, requiring residents to obtain an updated license or ID for air travel and access to federal facilities. The state provides convenient ways to apply for REAL ID at local DOL offices.

Washington has joined Ohio, Texas, Michigan, Florida, California, and more in introducing new air traveler fees for unverified ID holders, starting February 1, 2025. This $45 fee encourages travelers to secure approved IDs to avoid delays and maintain air travel security.

Conclusion

Washington has joined Ohio, Texas, Michigan, Florida, California, and more in introducing new air traveler fees for unverified ID holders, starting February 1, 2025. This $45 fee aims to encourage travelers to secure approved IDs to avoid delays and maintain air travel security. By introducing the TSA Confirm ID system, the TSA provides a temporary solution for travelers without government-approved identification, while emphasizing the importance of obtaining REAL IDs or passports. As more states implement these changes, travelers will need to stay informed and ensure they comply with the updated requirements to prevent unnecessary fees and disruptions during their travels. This new policy reflects the ongoing efforts to streamline airport procedures and enhance the overall security of air travel across the nation.