Real ID Update
Real ID Update
NEW YORK-In a major update for travelers and residents alike, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced on December 1, 2025 that starting February 1, 2026, passengers who do not present a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, or another acceptable form of ID may still fly, however, only after paying a new $45 fee to use an alternative identity verification system called TSA Confirm.ID. (TSA)
Until now, travelers without REAL ID were allowed to fly after extra screening and warnings. The new fee more than double the previously proposed $18, reflects higher than expected costs for Confirm.ID’s biometric and biographic checks. (Reuters)
Under the REAL ID requirements, mandated by the REAL ID Act of 2005, state issued licenses, permits and ID cards must meet stricter security standards for use in federal contexts such as boarding domestic flights or accessing certain federal facilities. (Wikipedia)
For residents of New York State, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) explains that a REAL ID-compliant license or non-driver ID includes a small white star (or a flag, if you opted for an “Enhanced” license) on the card’s front. A standard license without that mark will no longer suffice for air travel beginning in 2025/2026, unless you carry a passport or other approved ID. (NY DMV)
To obtain a REAL ID or Enhanced ID in New York, you must apply in person at a DMV office. The process requires valid proofs of identity and residence, including a U.S. birth certificate or passport, a Social Security number (or proof of ineligibility), and two proofs of New York residency such as recent utility bills or bank statements. (NY DMV)
Applying for a REAL ID does not cost extra, you pay the same fee as a standard license transaction. However, if you choose the Enhanced ID (useful for land or sea border crossings), there’s an additional $30 fee. (NY DMV)
Given the new TSA fee for non-compliant IDs, the NY DMV strongly encourages New Yorkers who fly to upgrade to REAL ID (or an Enhanced ID) sooner rather than later to avoid the $45 Confirm.ID charge, possible delays at security, or the hassle of carrying a passport.
Sources: (TSA) (NY DMV) (Reuters) (Wikipedia)
