The TSA Real ID enforcement is now in effect across U.S. airports, and travelers are beginning to see noticeable changes at security checkpoints. Starting in spring this year, passengers flying domestically must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport. Alongside this rollout, the Transportation Security Administration is expanding facial screening technology to dozens of major airports ahead of the 2026 global sporting events expected to bring millions of visitors to the U.S.

At Phoenix Sky Harbor and airports nationwide, officers have started stricter document checks tied to TSA Real ID compliance. While there is no separate airport charge, travelers should note that the TSA Real ID fee is typically associated with obtaining or upgrading a REAL ID through their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. 

What Happens If You Don’t Have a REAL ID?

The TSA has introduced a strict cost-recovery measure. Travelers who arrive at security checkpoints without a compliant license or an alternative like a passport will be required to pay a fee to clear security. This TSA Real ID fee is set at $45 per verification. 

This system uses a modernized identity-verification process to vet passengers on the spot. It is important to note that this fee only covers a 10-day travel window. If your return flight falls outside this period, you will have to pay again. While the system exists to prevent missed flights, it is not a guarantee of boarding, if the system cannot verify your identity, you will be turned away.

For travelers in the U.S., especially those booking international flight tickets to visit family back home, carrying a passport remains the safest option for both domestic connections and international departures.

TSA Expands Touchless ID and Facial Screening

In parallel with REAL ID enforcement, TSA is introducing advanced identity verification systems at 65 airports. The program, known as TSA Touchless ID, allows eligible passengers to move through security using biometric verification instead of presenting a physical boarding pass.

While the program is expanding rapidly, the technology often referred to as TSA Touchless ID is currently active or in immediate rollout at major hubs including:

Existing Hubs: Atlanta (ATL), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Detroit (DTW), Las Vegas (LAS), Newark (EWR), New York (JFK & LGA), Orlando (MCO), Phoenix (PHX), Salt Lake City (SLC), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), and Washington (DCA).

2026 Priority Expansion: Houston (IAH & HOU), Boston (BOS), Miami (MIA), Washington Dulles (IAD), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Baltimore (BWI), and San Jose (SJC).

The expansion of TSA facial recognition aims to reduce physical contact, shorten lines, and strengthen identity verification. According to TSA, participation in these biometric screenings is voluntary. Travelers who prefer traditional ID checks may decline and proceed with standard document verification. Still, with facial recognition TSA technology expanding rapidly, more frequent flyers are expected to adopt the faster system over time.

The nationwide enforcement of TSA Real ID and the rollout of biometric screening mark a significant shift in U.S. airport security. While the changes aim to enhance safety and efficiency, travelers must stay informed and prepared. Before your next journey whether domestic or international double-check your identification, consider enrolling in PreCheck, and ensure your travel documents are fully compliant for a seamless experience.

If you’re planning to travel between the U.S. and India, keeping your documents updated and booking early can help avoid last-minute stress. For a smoother booking experience and reliable support on long-haul routes, consider booking your tickets with Indian Eagle deals for your USA-India journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the current TSA Real ID requirements? 

To board a domestic flight without paying a verification fee, you must present a REAL ID-compliant license (marked with a star), a valid U.S. or foreign passport, a Permanent Resident Card, or a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck card. Standard “Not for Federal Purposes” licenses are no longer sufficient.

What is touchless TSA PreCheck and how does it work? 

It is a biometric system for PreCheck members that uses facial recognition to verify identity. Instead of showing an ID, a camera scans your face and matches it to your government-held passport photo, allowing you to bypass physical document checks entirely.

How to get touchless TSA PreCheck for my next flight? 

To use this feature, you must have a valid TSA PreCheck membership and a passport. You must then opt-in through a participating airline’s mobile app (such as Delta, United, or American) and ensure your Known Traveler Number (KTN) and passport details are saved in your profile.

Can you get through TSA without a Real ID in 2026? 

Yes, but it will cost you. If you don’t have a REAL ID or a passport, you must pay a $45 “ConfirmID” fee and undergo an enhanced identity-verification process. This takes significantly longer and does not guarantee that you will be allowed to board.

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