Major ID Card Requirements Changes in December 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes this December 2025, with new TSA fees, biometric collection rules, and digital ID expansions affecting millions of travelers. The most impactful update is the TSA's announcement of a $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID starting February 1, 2026.
Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security's final rule on biometric collection takes effect December 26, 2025, requiring facial recognition for all non-citizens at US entry and exit points. These changes mark the most comprehensive ID card requirements overhaul in two decades.
Key ID Card Changes Taking Effect Now
Here are the critical updates you need to know about:
- TSA $45 Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without REAL ID or acceptable alternatives must pay $45 to use the TSA ConfirmID verification system
- Biometric Exit Rule: Effective December 26, 2025, all non-citizens must provide facial biometrics when entering and departing the United States
- EU Biometric Deadline: Non-biometric EU ID cards will no longer be accepted for UK entry after December 31, 2025
- Digital ID Expansion: Apple Digital ID launched November 12, 2025, allowing US passport holders to create identification in Apple Wallet
- 14 States Now Support Mobile IDs: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia
These updates reflect a global shift toward biometric verification and digital identification systems. Furthermore, approximately 56 million Americans still lack REAL ID-compliant identification as of late 2025.
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Changes
The new ID card requirements impact various groups differently. Understanding which category applies to you is essential for proper preparation.
For US Domestic Travelers
If your driver's license lacks the REAL ID star symbol (★), you must either obtain a compliant ID or face the new $45 TSA fee starting February 2026. Currently, more than 94% of passengers already use REAL ID or other acceptable identification, but millions remain non-compliant.
For Non-US Citizens
The December 26, 2025 biometric rule affects everyone who is not a US citizen—including green card holders, visa holders, tourists, students, and temporary workers. Facial recognition photos will be collected at airports, land borders, and seaports upon both entry and exit.
For EU Citizens with UK Settlement Status
If you hold pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can use non-biometric national ID cards until December 31, 2025. After this date, only ID cards meeting ICAO biometric standards will be accepted for UK entry.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant - Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure your identification meets the new requirements:
- Check Your Current ID: Look for the star symbol (★) on your driver's license—black or gold, filled or outline indicates compliance
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of residency
- Visit Your Local DMV: Schedule an appointment and bring all original documents—copies are not accepted
- Pay the Fee: REAL ID fees vary by state, typically between $20-$65 for a new or renewal license
- Receive Your New ID: Processing times vary; some states issue temporary IDs while the permanent card is mailed
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar:
- December 26, 2025: DHS biometric entry/exit rule takes effect for all non-citizens
- December 31, 2025: EU non-biometric ID cards expire for UK entry under Settlement Scheme
- January 2026: US passport photos with AI edits will be immediately rejected
- February 1, 2026: TSA $45 fee begins for travelers without REAL ID or acceptable alternatives
- 2029: UK mandatory digital ID scheme expected to launch
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Forget My REAL ID at the Airport?
Starting February 1, 2026, you can pay a $45 non-refundable fee to use TSA ConfirmID for identity verification. This grants 10-day checkpoint access using biometric verification technology. However, the process takes 10-30 minutes, and verification is not guaranteed—you may still be denied boarding.
Can I Use Digital ID Instead of Physical REAL ID?
Yes, mobile driver's licenses and Apple Digital ID are now accepted at over 250 TSA checkpoints nationwide. However, TSA recommends carrying a physical ID as backup. Digital ID requires biometric verification (Face ID or Touch ID) before each use and is currently limited to domestic travel.
Do Green Card Holders Need to Provide Biometrics?
Yes, under the December 26, 2025 rule, all non-citizens including lawful permanent residents must provide facial biometrics upon entry and departure. This eliminates previous exemptions for diplomats, most Canadian travelers, and children under 14. Biometric records may be stored for up to 75 years.
How Do I Know If My EU ID Card Has Biometric Chip?
Look for the biometric chip symbol on your ID card—a small rectangle with a circle inside. This indicates your card contains an electronic chip storing biometric data and meets ICAO international standards. If this symbol is absent, your card may not be accepted for UK entry after December 31, 2025.
What You Need to Know - Bottom Line
The ID card requirements landscape is changing significantly in late 2025 and early 2026. US travelers should ensure they have REAL ID-compliant identification before February 1, 2026 to avoid the new $45 TSA fee. Non-citizens should prepare for mandatory biometric collection starting December 26, 2025.
Whether you're applying for a new passport, updating your driver's license, or traveling internationally, ensure your passport photo meets all current requirements. VisaPics helps travelers prepare compliant photos for passports, visas, and identification documents across 172 countries with over 952 document specifications. Check your photo requirements today to avoid delays and rejections.