Overview
- Published in the Federal Register on Nov. 20, the rule formalizes a technology-based alternative for travelers who reach screening without a REAL ID or other acceptable identification.
- The $18 charge is mandatory and nonrefundable, will be collected once TSA opens online registration, and does not guarantee access to the secure area.
- The process replaces a phone-based check with kiosks that use biographic and biometric data and include a Secure Flight watchlist review, which may result in additional screening or delays.
- Payment covers up to 10 consecutive days of attempts only if identity is successfully verified each time, and TSA may limit repeat use by travelers who frequently lack acceptable ID.
- Passports and other DHS-approved credentials remain valid alternatives for domestic travel, and some IDs are accepted up to two years past expiration, while Apple’s digital ID is being piloted at participating TSA checkpoints for domestic use only.