A new program from the Transportation Security Administration will charge travelers $18 to pass through airport security if they are not carrying valid identification, such as Real ID or a passport.

According to the agency, the fee will cover the cost of a "modernized alternative identity verification program" that relies on biometrics instead of documents or interviews.

A Federal Register notice posted Thursday explained the new initiative. Travelers who arrive at the airport without correct identification can choose to use the automated biometric kiosk. The $18 fee, which will "address the government-incurred costs," is nonrefundable and valid for 10 days. Even with payment, entry into the secured area is not guaranteed, the register noted.

The memo did not mention a timeline fo

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