Major ID Card Requirements Changes in December 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes in December 2025, affecting millions of travelers in the United States and Europe. The TSA announced a new $45 fee for passengers without REAL ID-compliant identification, while EU citizens face critical deadlines for UK travel with national ID cards.
These updates impact domestic air travel, international border crossings, and access to federal facilities. Understanding the new rules is essential for avoiding delays, extra fees, and potential travel disruptions in 2026.
New $45 TSA Fee for Travelers Without REAL ID
On December 1, 2025, the TSA introduced a significant policy change that affects travelers without compliant identification.
- Fee Amount: $45 for travelers without REAL ID or acceptable alternative identification
- Start Date: February 1, 2026 for all domestic flights at US airports
- Validity Period: The fee covers a 10-day travel window through the Confirm.ID verification system
- Payment Method: Available online before arriving at the airport or at the airport (may take 30 minutes)
- No Guarantee: TSA officials warn that paying the fee does not guarantee identity verification
The fee more than doubled from the originally proposed $18 amount. According to the Federal Register, higher technology and operational costs led to the increase.
Currently, over 94% of passengers already use REAL ID or acceptable alternatives. However, approximately 56 million Americans still lack compliant identification as of late 2025.
Digital ID Now Accepted at 250+ US Airports
A major advancement in ID technology rolled out in November 2025, offering travelers a convenient alternative to physical documents.
- Apple Digital ID: Launched November 12, 2025, allowing US passport holders to create digital identification
- Airport Coverage: Now accepted at over 250 TSA checkpoints nationwide
- Compatible Platforms: Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet
- Device Requirements: iPhone 11 or later, or Apple Watch Series 6 or later
- State Digital IDs: Illinois and Virginia now offer mobile driver's licenses
To set up Digital ID, users scan their physical passport, verify data through the embedded chip, take a selfie, and complete facial movements for authentication. The feature is currently in beta but expanding rapidly.
Important limitation: Digital ID cannot replace your physical passport for international travel or border crossings. You must still carry acceptable physical identification.
UK Travel: Biometric ID Card Deadline for EU Citizens
EU citizens traveling to the United Kingdom face a critical deadline that could affect their ability to enter using national ID cards.
For EU Citizens with Settled or Pre-Settled Status
You can continue using your national ID card for UK entry until December 31, 2025. After this date, only biometric ID cards meeting ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) standards will be accepted indefinitely.
For EU Citizens Without UK Immigration Status
Since April 2, 2025, you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to visit the UK. National ID cards are no longer accepted for tourism or short visits—you must use a valid passport.
How to Check if Your ID Card is Biometric
Look for a small rectangle with a circle inside on your ID card—this is the biometric chip symbol. If your card lacks this symbol, it may not meet UK requirements after December 31, 2025, and you should plan to travel with your passport instead.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant - Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain your REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card before the deadline.
- Gather Required Documents: Full legal name proof (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of current address
- Schedule an Appointment: Visit your state DMV website to book an in-person appointment—many states have significant wait times
- Bring Original Documents: Photocopies are not accepted; all documents must be originals or certified copies
- Pay the Fee: REAL ID fees vary by state, typically $30-$50 for a new card or upgrade
- Receive Your Card: Look for the star symbol (★) in the upper corner confirming REAL ID compliance
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to ensure compliance with new ID card requirements.
- December 31, 2025: UK biometric ID card requirement takes effect for EU citizens with settled status
- February 1, 2026: TSA begins charging $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID
- May 7, 2025 (Already in Effect): REAL ID enforcement began at all US airports and federal facilities
- 2029 (Planned): UK mandatory digital ID scheme ("BritCard") expected to launch
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID
If you haven't obtained a REAL ID yet, several alternative documents are accepted at TSA checkpoints.
- US Passport or Passport Card: Valid for domestic flights and recommended for international travelers
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards: Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST cards
- Military ID: Active duty US military identification
- Enhanced Driver's License: From Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont
- Permanent Resident Card: Green card holders can use this document
- Tribal ID: Photo ID from federally recognized tribal nations
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a REAL ID to Fly in 2025?
Yes, as of May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant license or an acceptable alternative like a US passport to board domestic flights. Without compliant ID, you'll face the new $45 TSA fee starting February 2026. Ensure your passport photo meets official requirements if using a passport as your alternative.
Can I Use Digital ID Instead of Physical ID at Airports?
Digital ID through Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet is now accepted at over 250 US airports. However, TSA still recommends carrying physical identification as backup since the feature is in beta and not available at all checkpoints.
What Happens if My EU ID Card Isn't Biometric for UK Travel?
If your national ID card doesn't have a biometric chip, you should travel to the UK with your passport after December 31, 2025. Non-biometric ID cards may be rejected at the border, causing travel delays or denial of entry.
How Much Does the TSA Fee Cost Without REAL ID?
Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without REAL ID or acceptable alternatives will pay $45 for a 10-day travel pass through the Confirm.ID system. This fee must be paid again after each 10-day period expires.
What You Need to Know - Bottom Line
ID card requirements in late 2025 and early 2026 bring significant changes for both US domestic travelers and EU citizens visiting the UK. The new $45 TSA fee makes obtaining REAL ID more urgent than ever, while EU travelers must verify their ID cards have biometric chips for continued UK entry.
Take action now to avoid fees and travel disruptions. Visit your local DMV to upgrade to REAL ID, check if your EU ID card meets biometric standards, or ensure your passport photo specifications are current for alternative documentation. VisaPics can help you prepare compliant passport and visa photos that meet official government requirements for any travel document you need.