Can You Fly Without ID in 2026? TSA Exceptions, Identity Checks, and What Really Happens

Smiling child standing in an airport terminal without ID with travelers in the background

Introduction Lost your wallet the night before a flight? Passport stolen at the airport? Approximately 1.8 million passengers fly daily across the United States, and thousands face this exact scenario every week. The panic is real, but the answer might surprise you. Flying without a standard photo ID is possible under specific TSA exceptions in … Read more

$45 TSA ConfirmID Fee 2026: What Happens If You Don’t Have REAL ID Starting February

Close-up of TSA uniform badge emphasizing integrity and commitment, with "TSA ConfirmID" overlay related to new identity verification fee.

Introduction American travelers without REAL ID face a $45 fee starting February 1, 2026. The Transportation Security Administration introduced this ConfirmID charge for passengers who arrive at security checkpoints without acceptable identification. The non-refundable fee covers a 10-day travel period and requires additional screening taking 10 to 30 minutes. Approximately 94 percent of travelers already … Read more