Summary
The Trump administration is planning to introduce an $18 fee for airline passengers who arrive at security checkpoints without a valid government ID. This fee is part of implementing new biometric systems to improve airport security and is linked to the REAL ID Act. Travelers will need to have a REAL ID, passport, or another approved ID to avoid the fee.
Key Facts
- An $18 fee will be charged to passengers without a valid ID at TSA checkpoints.
- The fee is to support a new biometric system for verifying identities.
- The REAL ID Act, signed into law over 20 years ago, will be fully enforced by May 2025.
- Travelers without a REAL ID, passport, or alternative ID will incur the fee.
- Paying the fee allows access to TSA checkpoints for up to 10 days.
- The rule stems from requirements to enhance security following recommendations from the 9/11 Commission.
- The $18 fee rule is open to public comments, with implementation details pending.
- The TSA states that their biometric kiosks do not assure entry if verification fails.
