Security Policy Alert: TSA To Introduce New Alternative Identity Verification Program

November 18, 2025

In a call with AAAE and other industry associations today, TSA shared preliminary plans for a rollout of an alternative identity verification program at security checkpoints nationwide in January 2026. At that time, TSA plans to implement alternative identity verification procedures for passengers that do not have a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or other acceptable form of identification as well as for passengers that have lost their identification.

TSA thanked airports for their support of passenger education efforts for the REAL ID enforcement implemented in May. TSA encouraged airports to continue passenger education efforts about the importance of having a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification as the agency adds this new alternative identification verification process to its REAL ID enforcement procedures. According to TSA, the updated program will replace its current verification process and will speed up identity verification. TSA will charge a fee for the service, which will likely range from $15 to $20. TSA must issue a fee notice in the Federal Register prior to charging the fee to passengers. AAAE will share the fee notice as soon as it is published in the Federal Register.

Passengers who use this process may also be subject to additional screening at the checkpoint, consistent with current practices.

TSA is still determining the procedures for the alternative identity verification program, the deployment schedule, and placement of the necessary technology. On today’s call, TSA did state that it may not be available at all checkpoints or even at all airports. Also, passengers would be limited in the number of times that they could use the program. However, when they do verify their identity through the updated process, it would be valid for a limited time period (meaning passengers could likely use the verified identity for a round-trip or flight connection).

AAAE raised several questions and concerns on the call, particularly related to timing, operational impact, deployment, and passenger impact/experience. TSA promised to continue to engage with industry as the agency prepares to test and then roll out the program in January. We will keep you updated as we learn additional details. In the meantime, please send us any questions or concerns you may have about the new alternative identification verification program.