Major ID Card Requirements Update for 2025
October 2025 marks a turning point for ID card requirements worldwide, with sweeping changes affecting travelers, immigrants, and citizens across multiple countries. The UK announced a mandatory digital ID system by 2029, while the US implemented tougher citizenship testing from October 20, 2025, requiring green card holders to answer 12 out of 20 civics questions correctly—double the previous requirement.
These changes come alongside ongoing REAL ID enforcement in the United States, new EU entry requirements for UK visitors, and evolving voter identification laws across 36 US states. Understanding these updates is crucial for anyone planning international travel, applying for citizenship, or renewing identification documents.
Key ID Card Changes Taking Effect in 2025
Multiple countries and regions have implemented significant identification requirement changes affecting millions of people worldwide.
- UK Digital ID (Brit Card): Mandatory digital identification card required for all UK residents by 2029 to prove work eligibility, marking a historic shift from the UK's traditional stance against ID cards
- US Citizenship Test Reform: New 128-question pool (up from 100) effective October 20, 2025, requiring 12 correct answers out of 20 instead of previous 6 out of 10
- EU ID Cards in UK: Non-biometric EU national ID cards will no longer be accepted for UK entry after December 31, 2025—passport required for most visitors
- REAL ID Full Enforcement: All US air travelers age 18+ must present REAL ID-compliant cards or acceptable alternatives since May 7, 2025
- Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): EU visitors to UK need ETA from April 2, 2025, in addition to valid passport
- Voter ID Requirements: 36 US states now require identification at polls, with 24 requiring photo ID specifically
According to the Transportation Security Administration, 81% of US travelers already use REAL ID-compliant licenses or approved alternatives like passports. However, millions still need to upgrade their identification documents to meet new standards.
Who Is Affected By These ID Card Updates
These identification requirement changes impact distinct groups of travelers, workers, and residents in different ways.
For International Travelers to the UK
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can no longer use standard national ID cards to enter the UK—a valid passport is mandatory for the duration of your stay. From April 2, 2025, you also need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) before arrival. Only EU nationals with settled or pre-settled status under the Brexit withdrawal agreement can continue using biometric national ID cards indefinitely, while non-biometric cards expire December 31, 2025.
For US Domestic Air Travelers
Every adult passenger boarding commercial flights within the United States must present REAL ID-compliant identification or acceptable alternatives such as US passports, Global Entry cards, or active military IDs. Standard driver's licenses without the star marking in the corner will be rejected at TSA security checkpoints, potentially causing missed flights and travel disruptions.
For Green Card Holders Seeking Citizenship
Applicants filing for naturalization face significantly tougher civics testing from October 20, 2025. The new exam draws from 128 questions instead of 100, and requires 12 correct answers out of 20 oral questions—a 60% passing score compared to the previous 60% rate achieved by answering just 6 out of 10. Enhanced moral character scrutiny also applies to all new applicants.
For UK Workers and Residents
British citizens and permanent residents will be required to carry the new digital "Brit Card" by 2029 to prove their right to work. The free digital ID will include name, date of birth, photo, nationality, and residency status—making it mandatory unlike voluntary digital ID systems in most European countries.
How to Get REAL ID-Compliant Identification - Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain REAL ID-compliant identification before your next flight.
- Check Your Current ID: Look for a star marking (★) in the upper right corner or edge of your driver's license or state ID card—this indicates REAL ID compliance
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, lawful status, and two proofs of current address (utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements)
- Visit Your State DMV: Schedule an appointment at your local Department of Motor Vehicles or licensing office—all 50 states, DC, and 5 territories now issue REAL ID-compliant cards
- Complete Application and Pay Fee: Fill out the REAL ID application form and pay the required fee, which varies by state but typically ranges from $10-$30
- Receive Your New ID: Your REAL ID-compliant card will arrive by mail within 2-4 weeks, featuring the distinctive star marking for easy identification at airport security
Important Dates and Timeline for ID Requirements
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to ensure compliance with new identification standards.
- May 7, 2025 (Already Passed): REAL ID enforcement began at all US airports—non-compliant IDs no longer accepted for domestic flights
- October 1, 2025 (Passed): Updated visa interview waiver categories took effect at US Department of State
- October 20, 2025 (Just Passed): New tougher US citizenship civics test implemented with 128-question pool and higher passing requirements
- December 31, 2025 (Upcoming): Non-biometric EU national ID cards will no longer be accepted for UK entry—biometric passport required
- 2029: UK's mandatory digital ID card (Brit Card) must be carried by all British citizens and permanent residents to prove right to work
Frequently Asked Questions About ID Card Requirements
Can I Still Fly Within the US Without REAL ID?
Yes, but only if you have an acceptable alternative such as a valid US passport, passport card, Global Entry or SENTRI trusted traveler card, active military ID, or Transportation Worker Identification Credential. Standard driver's licenses without the REAL ID star marking are no longer accepted for domestic air travel as of May 7, 2025.
What Happens if My EU ID Card Isn't Biometric for UK Travel?
Starting January 1, 2026, the UK will reject non-biometric national ID cards that don't comply with ICAO international standards for biometric identification. You must travel with a full valid passport instead. EU nationals with UK settled or pre-settled status can continue using biometric ID cards indefinitely, but non-biometric cards expire December 31, 2025.
How Do I Know If My State ID Is REAL ID Compliant?
Look for a star marking (★) in one of the top corners of your driver's license or identification card. If you see the star, your ID meets REAL ID security standards and will be accepted at airport security checkpoints. If there's no star, you need to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant card or use an alternative like a passport for air travel.
Will the UK's Digital Brit Card Replace Physical ID Documents?
The digital Brit Card will be mandatory for proving your right to work in the UK by 2029, but it's currently unclear if it will fully replace physical documents like passports or driving licenses for other purposes. The digital ID will contain your name, date of birth, photo, nationality, and residency status—making it unique among European nations where digital ID systems remain mostly voluntary.
Does the New Citizenship Test Apply to Green Card Renewals?
No, the tougher civics test implemented October 20, 2025 only applies to green card holders applying for naturalization (US citizenship). If you're simply renewing your green card or permanent resident status, you won't need to take the citizenship test. However, if you decide to apply for citizenship in the future, you'll face the new 128-question pool requiring 12 correct answers out of 20.
What You Need to Know About New ID Requirements
ID card requirements are evolving rapidly across the globe, with major enforcement deadlines already in effect for US air travelers and upcoming changes for UK visitors and workers. The shift toward biometric and digital identification represents a fundamental transformation in how governments verify identity and immigration status.
Whether you're planning international travel, applying for citizenship, or simply renewing your driver's license, ensure your passport photo meets current requirements and stay informed about document specifications for your destination country. Check your state DMV website for REAL ID application details, and if traveling to the UK, verify your passport validity well before departure to avoid last-minute complications.