ID Card Requirements Update: Major Changes Effective Now
ID card requirements have undergone significant changes in December 2025, affecting millions of travelers across the United States and internationally. From TSA's new $45 verification fee to mandatory biometric screening for green card holders, these updates impact everyone from domestic flyers to permanent residents.
The Department of Homeland Security estimates that approximately 56 million Americans still do not have REAL ID-compliant identification. With enforcement now active and new penalties taking effect in February 2026, understanding these requirements is essential for hassle-free travel.
Key ID Card Changes December 2025
Here are the most important ID card requirement updates you need to know:
- TSA $45 Confirm.ID Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without acceptable ID must pay $45 for identity verification through TSA's new Confirm.ID system
- REAL ID Enforcement Active: Since May 7, 2025, all travelers 18+ need REAL ID-compliant identification or acceptable alternatives at TSA checkpoints
- Green Card Biometric Screening: Effective December 26, 2025, all non-citizens including permanent residents must submit to photography at every U.S. entry and exit point
- Digital IDs Expand: 15 states plus Puerto Rico now accept driver's licenses through Apple Wallet at over 250 U.S. airports
- EU ID Card UK Deadline: Non-biometric EU national ID cards will not be accepted for UK entry after December 31, 2025
These changes represent the most significant overhaul of ID requirements in recent years. Additionally, the verification process for non-compliant travelers could add 10 to 30 minutes at security checkpoints, making compliance more important than ever.
Who Is Affected by New ID Card Requirements
These updates impact different groups in various ways. Understanding your specific situation helps you prepare accordingly.
For U.S. Domestic Travelers
If your driver's license lacks the star symbol (★) in the upper corner, you're not REAL ID-compliant. Currently, over 94% of passengers already use acceptable identification, but the remaining 6% face delays or fees. Check your ID now and visit your local DMV to upgrade if necessary.
For Green Card Holders and Visa Holders
Starting December 26, 2025, you will be photographed at every entry and exit point—airports, land crossings, and seaports. CBP may also collect fingerprints and iris scans. Refusing biometric collection could result in denied entry or boarding. This data may be retained for up to 75 years.
For EU Citizens Traveling to the UK
If you have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), check your national ID card for the biometric chip symbol—a small rectangle with a circle inside. Without this symbol, you must travel with your passport after December 31, 2025.
How to Check Your ID Compliance
Follow these steps to verify your identification meets current requirements:
- Check for the REAL ID star: Look at the top right corner of your driver's license or state ID for the gold or black star marking
- Verify expiration date: Ensure your ID hasn't expired—expired IDs are never acceptable at TSA checkpoints
- Consider digital ID: If you're in Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Virginia, or West Virginia, add your license to Apple Wallet
- Gather documents for DMV: If you need to upgrade, collect your birth certificate, Social Security card, and two proofs of address
- Schedule DMV appointment: Many states now require appointments for REAL ID processing—book early to avoid delays
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar:
- December 26, 2025: Mandatory biometric screening begins for all non-citizens at U.S. ports of entry and exit
- December 31, 2025: EU non-biometric ID cards no longer accepted for UK border entry under EUSS
- February 1, 2026: TSA's $45 Confirm.ID fee takes effect for travelers without acceptable identification
- Ongoing: Digital ID acceptance expanding to more airports and states throughout 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't have a REAL ID at the airport?
Starting February 1, 2026, you can pay a $45 non-refundable fee to use TSA's Confirm.ID verification system. This covers a 10-day travel window. However, payment doesn't guarantee approval—if your identity cannot be verified, you may be denied boarding.
Can I use my passport instead of REAL ID?
Yes. U.S. passports, passport cards, military IDs, Global Entry cards, SENTRI cards, and Enhanced Driver's Licenses from five states are all acceptable alternatives to REAL ID. These work immediately without any fees or verification delays.
Do green card holders need to provide biometrics every time they travel?
Yes, as of December 26, 2025. The new DHS rule requires photographs at every entry and exit for all non-citizens, including lawful permanent residents. Previously exempt groups like minors under 14 and seniors over 79 are now included in this requirement.
What You Need to Know Now
The December 2025 ID card requirements represent a fundamental shift in travel documentation standards. Whether you're a domestic traveler, green card holder, or EU citizen visiting the UK, taking action now prevents costly delays and potential travel disruptions. The $45 TSA fee alone makes upgrading to a REAL ID significantly more economical.
Before your next trip, ensure your passport photo meets current requirements and verify your ID compliance. VisaPics can help you create compliant photos for REAL ID applications, passport renewals, and visa applications—all from your smartphone in minutes.