The clock is ticking for Massachusetts residents who are planning to fly domestically and don’t yet have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification or a valid U.S. passport. As of February 1, 2026, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will implement fees for passengers who cannot present one of these forms, requiring them to enroll in the TSA's Confirm ID program for $45 for 10 days of travel, according to an announcement by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).
The RMV is actively pushing to get the word out, encouraging travelers to ensure they possess the necessary federally approved ID ahead of hitting the airport security lines, especially with popular travel seasons on the horizon, as Massachusetts sees that over 65% of its residents are already REAL ID-compliant, with more than 3.67 million people in possession of the right kind of identification.
In a statement obtained by Mass.gov, Registrar of Motor Vehicles Colleen Ogilvie stated, "We want everyone to be able to get through airport security as quickly and smoothly as possible. For that reason, we are encouraging residents to check that they have a REAL ID available for future travel, including school vacations or spring and summer travel."
Residents requiring a REAL ID can schedule an in-person appointment via the RMV’s Online Service Center or for AAA members at Northeast.aaa.com, but they should not stall, as gathering the required documents, completing the in-person appointment, and the following mailing time can stretch out the whole process to about three weeks—REAL IDs are typically received by mail within 10 – 14 business days, the RMV held.
Concerning fees, the standard renewal charge for a driver's license or REAL ID is $50, while a Mass ID renewal costs $25, and if you're updating to a REAL ID before your current ID expires, it's also $25. Non-citizens staying in the U.S. less than five years will pay a prorated fee. Applicants for a REAL ID must bring documentation, including proof of lawful presence in the U.S., two proofs of Massachusetts residency, and proof of a Social Security Number. If there's been a name change since the issue of their lawful presence document, legal proof like a marriage certificate or court order must be presented. The RMV recommends taking action well before planned travel to avoid any hold-ups.
