Major ID Card Requirements Changes in December 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes as 2025 draws to a close, with the TSA announcing a new $45 fee for travelers without acceptable identification starting February 1, 2026. These updates affect millions of Americans and EU citizens traveling internationally.
Since REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025, travelers have faced stricter identification standards at airport security checkpoints. However, new developments in December 2025 signal even more changes ahead for document requirements.
TSA Announces $45 Fee for Non-REAL ID Travelers
The most significant ID card requirement update came on December 1, 2025, when the Transportation Security Administration announced its new fee structure.
- $45 verification fee: Travelers without acceptable ID will pay $45 to use the TSA Confirm.ID system starting February 1, 2026
- 10-day validity: The fee covers a 10-day travel period, not individual flights
- No guarantees: The fee is nonrefundable and does not guarantee successful identity verification
- Processing time: Identity verification screening takes approximately 10-30 minutes
- Online prepayment: Travelers can pay through Pay.gov before arriving at the airport
The TSA initially proposed an $18 fee but increased it after determining the alternative identification program costs exceeded original estimates. Currently, more than 94% of passengers already use REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification.
Who Is Affected by ID Card Requirement Changes
These updates impact several distinct groups of travelers and residents across the United States and internationally.
For U.S. Domestic Travelers
Approximately 56 million Americans still lack REAL ID-compliant identification. If you typically use a standard driver's license without the star symbol for domestic flights, you'll need to obtain a REAL ID or carry an acceptable alternative like a passport.
For EU Citizens with UK Settled Status
EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme can use non-biometric national ID cards for UK entry until December 31, 2025. After this date, only ICAO-compliant biometric ID cards will be accepted. Check for a chip symbol on your card—a small rectangle with a circle inside.
For Digital ID Early Adopters
Residents in participating states can now add driver's licenses to their smartphones. Digital IDs work at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports but cannot replace physical passports for international travel or border crossings.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant – Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain your REAL ID before the February 2026 fee deadline.
- Visit your state DMV website: Check specific documentation requirements for your state, as these may vary
- Gather required documents: Prepare proof of full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status documentation
- Schedule an appointment: Many states now require or recommend DMV appointments for REAL ID applications
- Bring original documents: Copies are not accepted—you must present original documents or certified copies
- Pay the applicable fee: REAL ID fees vary by state, typically ranging from $20-$40
- Verify your new ID: Confirm your card displays the star symbol indicating REAL ID compliance
Digital ID Expansion: 14 States Now Support Mobile Driver's Licenses
Digital identification options continue expanding, offering travelers more flexibility at TSA checkpoints.
- Apple Digital ID: Launched November 12, 2025, allowing U.S. passport holders to create digital identification in Apple Wallet
- 14 participating states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia
- Illinois launch: Became the largest state to offer digital driver's licenses on November 18, 2025
- Virginia Mobile ID: First state offering fully digital driver's licenses through dedicated app
- Android support coming: Many states plan Android compatibility in 2026
To add your license to Apple Wallet, you need an iPhone 8 or later with Face ID or Touch ID enabled, plus a license from a participating state. Google Wallet also supports digital IDs with encrypted storage for security.
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines for ID card requirement compliance.
- December 31, 2025: EU biometric ID card requirement takes effect for UK settled status holders
- February 1, 2026: TSA begins charging $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID or acceptable alternative
- Ongoing: Additional states expected to launch mobile ID programs throughout 2026
- Future: Military NextGen ID card updates continue—old-style USID cards being phased out
Frequently Asked Questions
What IDs Are Accepted Instead of REAL ID?
The TSA accepts several alternatives to REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses. These include a U.S. passport or passport card, military ID, permanent resident card, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI), and Enhanced Driver's Licenses from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont.
Can I Use Digital ID for International Travel?
No. Digital IDs and mobile driver's licenses work only at domestic TSA checkpoints. For international travel, border crossings into Canada or Mexico, or international cruise travel, you must carry a physical U.S. passport. Always bring a physical form of acceptable ID when traveling.
How Do I Know If My EU ID Card Has a Biometric Chip?
Look for a small rectangular symbol with a circle inside on your national ID card—this indicates an embedded biometric chip meeting ICAO international standards. If your card lacks this symbol, contact your home country's authorities about obtaining an updated biometric ID card before December 31, 2025.
What Happens If I Forget My ID at the Airport?
Starting February 1, 2026, you can pay $45 to use TSA Confirm.ID for identity verification. This provides a 10-day travel window. However, the process takes 10-30 minutes and verification is not guaranteed. Prepayment is available through Pay.gov.
What You Need to Know About ID Card Requirements
The landscape of ID card requirements continues evolving with stricter enforcement and new verification options. The key takeaway: obtain REAL ID or an acceptable alternative before February 2026 to avoid the $45 TSA fee. With 94% of travelers already compliant, obtaining proper identification is straightforward.
When preparing your identification documents, ensure your passport photo meets requirements and check our comprehensive visa photo specifications for any international travel needs. Whether you're applying for a new passport, REAL ID, or updating your travel documents, proper photo compliance saves time and prevents application delays at VisaPics.