Los Angeles, November 21, 2025
The TSA has proposed an $18 fee for travelers without a REAL ID or passport for identity verification at airport security. This new program is designed to enhance security while streamlining the travel experience, allowing access for up to 10 days. It requires using biometric kiosks for identity checks, acknowledging that additional screening may still be needed. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize travel protocols in response to the REAL ID Act enforcement, providing options for travelers who may face delays.
Los Angeles, CA – TSA Proposes $18 Fee for Travelers Without REAL ID
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has recently proposed a new rule aimed at travelers who do not possess a REAL ID or passport. The proposed measure would require these individuals to pay an $18 fee for identity verification at airport security checkpoints. This fee would provide access for a period of 10 days and is designed to help offset the costs associated with implementing advanced biometric screening technologies.
This new initiative coincides with ongoing efforts to enhance airport security while promoting a smoother travel experience for all. The potential implementation of this identity verification program indicates a commitment to modernizing travel protocols in a way that respects both security needs and the realities of modern air travel.
Understanding the Proposed Rule
Under the forthcoming rule, travelers who lack a REAL ID-compliant identification would utilize a biometric kiosk system for identity verification. Participants in this optional program would be able to access it for up to 10 days as long as they successfully verify their identity each time they intend to use the service. However, it’s crucial to note that compliance with this program does not guarantee immediate access to the secure area of the airport, as additional screening may still be enforced, possibly resulting in delays.
Background on REAL ID Compliance
The introduction of the REAL ID Act in 2005 established stricter security requirements for state-issued IDs, necessitating that they meet specific standards for them to be acceptable at federal facilities, including airports. The Department of Homeland Security began enforcing these requirements for air travel in May 2025. Consequently, travelers are now required to produce a REAL ID-compliant form of identification such as a driver’s license or a passport to proceed through airport security checkpoints.
Implications for Travelers in Los Angeles
For residents and visitors in Los Angeles who do not have a REAL ID or passport, the TSA’s proposed alternative identity verification program presents a valuable opportunity. Paying the $18 fee enables them to navigate security with greater efficiency. Businesses involved in travel, like local airlines and hotels, may benefit from the expected reduction in delays at terminals, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and potentially increasing patronage.
Next Steps for Implementation
The proposed rule is currently published in the Federal Register, which has initiated a public comment period open to feedback from the community and stakeholders. This indicates the TSA’s commitment to engaging with the public and ensuring that the implementation of new procedures aligns with both security needs and traveler convenience. Updates and additional guidance regarding the implementation of the program are expected in the coming days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the TSA’s proposed rule regarding travelers without a REAL ID?
The TSA’s proposal requires travelers without a REAL ID or passport to pay an $18 fee for identity verification at airport security checkpoints. This fee covers access for 10 days and aims to help fund biometric screening technology.
How does the new identity verification process work?
Travelers lacking a REAL ID-compliant form of ID would be required to verify their identities using a biometric kiosk system. The $18 fee would permit usage for 10 days, however, guarantee of access to secure areas is not ensured, as further screening may be necessary.
What is the REAL ID Act, and how does it affect travelers?
The REAL ID Act mandates higher security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. Travelers must present a REAL ID-compliant form of ID to pass through security at airports since its enforcement began for domestic flights in May 2025.
What should travelers do if they don’t have a REAL ID or passport?
Travelers lacking a REAL ID or passport can choose to utilize the TSA’s identity verification program by paying an $18 fee, designed to streamline the verification process. However, additional screening may still occur during airport access.
When will the new TSA rule take effect?
The proposed rule has entered the public comment phase, and further updates from the TSA regarding implementation and final decisions will be released shortly.
Key Features of the TSA’s Proposed Rule
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fee Amount | $18 for 10 days of travel |
| Verification Method | Biometric kiosk system |
| Participation | Optional |
| Access Guarantee | Does not guarantee access to the sterile area; additional screening may apply |
| Implementation Timeline | Public comment period initiated; additional guidance forthcoming |
Now Happening on X
- @LAFDtalk (November 15, 2025, 2:53 AM): Rain is already moving through Los Angeles, with conditions expected to intensify over the weekend; sharing news coverage, press conference update, and weather predictions to help residents stay informed and prepared. View on X
- @CCWNNews (November 15, 2025, 1:00 PM): Storm update indicates a flood watch and evacuation warnings in effect as the L.A. storm strengthens, warning of dangerous road conditions, power outages, and debris flow in burn scars. View on X
- @SMMirror (November 15, 2025, 1:00 PM): Authorities have issued a flood watch and evacuation warnings as the Los Angeles storm intensifies, highlighting risks of dangerous road conditions, power outages, and debris flow in areas affected by past fires. View on X
- @BrentwoodNewsLA (November 15, 2025, 1:00 PM): L.A. officials warn of a strengthening storm bringing flood risks, evacuation orders, dangerous road conditions, potential power outages, and debris flows in burn scar areas. View on X
- @citystuff_la (November 15, 2025, 4:32 PM): Torrential rain is arriving in Southern California, with widespread flooding and some mudslides likely as the storm impacts Los Angeles. View on X
- @lalovestrump (November 15, 2025, 7:10 AM): LA City Alert provides updated storm information, urging residents to expect heavy rain, debris flows, and flooding. View on X
- @librsick (November 15, 2025, 12:27 PM): Officials in Los Angeles detail their response plan as a powerful storm prompts evacuation warnings across affected areas. View on X
- @CryptoBlckParty (November 15, 2025, 11:32 AM): Severe flooding is heading toward the Southern California Los Angeles area, with warnings for mudslides from past fires, water over roadways, and mandatory evacuation orders for 126 homes in Pacific Palisades, expecting further impacts. View on X
- @rowan_cerise (November 19, 2025, 5:05 PM): Residents of Los Angeles are facing a war-like situation with increased property and violent crime over the past 20 years, criticizing the city council for influence peddling arrests and lack of action on safety. View on X
- @rowan_cerise (November 19, 2025, 5:19 PM): Community concerns rise over unaddressed assaults, rapes, murders, vandalism, theft, mob shoplifting, street gang takeovers, violent gangs, and rivalries in Los Angeles. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Avenue Equities Acquires Cartwright Business Park for $42.4 Million
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
