Starting February 1, 2026, travelers in the United States who arrive at TSA airport checkpoints without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another federally accepted form of identification will face a new hurdle: a non-refundable $45 fee. This charge grants access to the TSA’s Confirm.ID identity verification process—a tech-driven solution for those caught at the gate without proper credentials.

But what does this mean for blind and disabled travelers? How will this policy affect those who may already experience barriers to obtaining official identification? And what steps can travelers take now to avoid unnecessary costs and delays?

REAL ID 101: The Basics REAL ID is a federally mandated form of identification established after the 9/11 attacks to standardize state-issued IDs. To fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings, you now need either:

• A REAL ID (a driver’s license or state ID marked with a star)
• Or another acceptable form of ID, such as a U.S. passport, military ID, or DHS Trusted Traveler card

If you don’t have any of these come February 1, 2026, and still want to board your flight, TSA will offer an alternative: pay $45 and go through its Confirm.ID system.

What the $45 Fee Covers The fee isn’t just a penalty—it covers a one-time use of Confirm.ID, valid for 10 days. This window typically covers a round-trip flight. The identity check includes biometric verification, personal information validation through secure databases, and possibly facial recognition or fingerprint scanning.

However, paying the fee doesn’t guarantee boarding. If the TSA cannot verify your identity through Confirm.ID, you won’t be allowed to fly, and your $45 is gone.

Who Must Pay? This fee only applies to travelers 18 and older who don’t have any of the following:

• A REAL ID-compliant state ID or license
• U.S. passport or passport card
• DHS Trusted Traveler card
• Military ID
• Permanent resident card
• Federally recognized tribal photo ID
• State-issued enhanced driver’s license (EDL)
• Mobile driver’s license in Apple or Google Wallet

Children under 18 are exempt from ID requirements when traveling with an adult.

For Blind and Disabled Travelers: A Closer Look The REAL ID rollout has had a unique impact on people with disabilities. Here’s how it intersects with the new fee:

1. Difficulty Accessing a REAL ID Obtaining a REAL ID often requires an in-person DMV visit and multiple original documents: proof of identity, Social Security number, and address. For blind or mobility-impaired individuals, this can involve logistical and physical challenges. Public transit access, the need for an assistant, or the lack of accessible DMV websites and appointment systems compound the issue.
2. Non-Drivers Face Extra Barriers Many blind travelers do not hold a driver’s license and instead use state-issued non-driver IDs. These IDs can be REAL ID-compliant but require the same application and verification process. If you have a state ID without the star, it won’t get you on a plane starting in February 2026. I personally have an ID with a star, and it always gets a second or third look compared to people I travel with who have a driver’s license.
3. Limited Outreach and Education Although REAL ID enforcement has been delayed multiple times, awareness remains low. Travelers with disabilities, particularly those living independently or on fixed incomes, may not be fully informed about the changes, especially if communication isn’t shared in accessible formats. That is why I keep writing these reminder articles!
4. Financial Burden At $45 per use, Confirm.ID could quickly become an expensive mistake. Disabled individuals often live on limited incomes. Missing the REAL ID deadline could mean an avoidable out-of-pocket cost simply for the right to fly.
5. Accessibility of Confirm.ID Details about the Confirm.ID system are still emerging, but potential concerns include:

• Is the payment portal screen reader accessible?
• Are biometric devices user-friendly for people with low vision or limited dexterity?
• Will instructions at checkpoints be available in braille or large print?
• Will assistance be offered proactively by TSA agents?

TSA has not explicitly addressed these questions but recommends using the TSA Cares program to request assistance during screening. Which to me – reading between the lines means that these systems will not be accessible.

TSA Cares: A Valuable Resource TSA Cares is a helpline (1-855-787-2227) where travelers with disabilities can request checkpoint support. Calling 72 hours before your flight allows TSA to arrange personalized assistance, which can help:

• Navigate the Confirm.ID process
• Read posted instructions
• Complete the payment portal
• Ensure dignity and independence during screening

TSA Cares won’t waive the fee, but it can make the process smoother.

How the Media Is Framing the Change Coverage of this policy shift has ranged from informational to sensational. News outlets like WHYY and Yahoo News emphasize the fee as a wake-up call for procrastinators. Politico notes the jump from a proposed $18 fee to the final $45. Others focus on the use of biometrics and privacy concerns. Across the board, the message is clear: if you fly without proper ID after February 1, 2026, expect delays and fees.

No Exceptions or Waivers (Yet) As of now, there are no announced waivers or exemptions to the $45 fee for disabled travelers. TSA has provided multiple acceptable ID options, arguing that everyone has had ample time to prepare. Advocates are watching closely for updates, especially on how this affects equity in air travel.

Preparing Now: What You Should Do To avoid last-minute surprises and unnecessary charges:

• Check your ID now. Does it have the REAL ID star?
• If not, make a DMV appointment as soon as possible
• Consider using a passport if you already have one
• Call your DMV to ask about accessible services or homebound options
• Use TSA Cares for upcoming trips if you need screening assistance

Key Dates and Summary

• REAL ID enforcement is already in effect as of May 7, 2025
• $45 Confirm.ID fee begins February 1, 2026
• Fee covers a 10-day travel period and is non-refundable
• Applies only if you lack any acceptable ID at the checkpoint
• Children under 18 are exempt

Plan Ahead, Travel Confidently This new TSA policy reinforces the importance of preparation, especially for travelers in the disability community. While Confirm.ID offers a backup solution, the cost, delay, and uncertainty make it far from ideal. If you haven’t secured a REAL ID yet, now’s the time. Stay proactive, use TSA Cares, and spread the word so no one gets grounded over paperwork.

Until our next adventure, see you at the gate!

-Ted and Fauna