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Could more changes be coming to TSA?
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said the agency is evaluating changes to its liquid restrictions rule for airline carry-ons — a potential major shift in the Transportation and Security Administration’s (TSA) policy that’s been in place since 2006 and a symbol of post-9/11 travel. Dan Bubb, former airlines pilot, joined LiveNOW from FOX to discuss.
A new proposed TSA policy may charge travelers without a REAL ID or passport a fee to verify their identity and be able to board a plane.
The TSA calls it a "modernized alternative identity verification program." The policy notice says the fee is optional, but it’s still unclear if travelers who don’t pay the fee will be able to fly.
What does the new TSA policy say?
What we know:
The new alternative identity verification program will use a biometric kiosk to identify passengers faster.
The program is expected to make the alternative verification process more efficient, though it still doesn’t guarantee that passengers’ identities will be verified.
What we don't know:
The new policy notice was published Nov. 20, but there’s no set date on when it could take effect.
Travelers wait in line at a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, US, on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025. Photographer: Mark Felix/Bloomberg via Getty Images
By the numbers:
TSA will charge $18 for each passenger without a REAL ID or passport.
What they're saying:
A TSA spokesperson told Fox News Digital that additional guidance will be announced in the coming days.
READ MORE: Major TSA security changes ahead: How your next airport experience could look
"This notice serves as a next step in the process [of] REAL ID compliance, which was signed into law more than 20 years ago and finally implemented by Secretary [Kristi] Noem as of May 2025," said the spokesperson.
Can you fly without a REAL ID or passport?
Dig deeper:
Currently, those who still lack an identification that complies with the REAL ID law are diverted to a different line and have to take extra steps to verify their identity.
TSA has warned people who don’t have the REAL ID to show up early and be prepared for advanced screening to avoid causing delays.
What is a REAL ID?
The backstory:
REAL ID is a federally compliant state-issued license or identification card that Homeland Security says is a more secure form of identification. It was a recommendation by the 9/11 Commission and signed into law in 2005.
The commission recommended the government set security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and IDs. It was supposed to be rolled out in 2008. But the implementation was repeatedly delayed until May 2025.
Besides needing a REAL ID to fly domestically, people also need one to access certain federal buildings and facilities.
A REAL ID-compliant driver’s license has a symbol (in most states, a star) in the top corner of the card.
The Source: This report includes information from TSA, The Associated Press and previous FOX TV Stations reporting.