Major ID Card Requirements Changes December 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes across the United States and Europe this December 2025. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a new $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification, while 15 states now accept digital driver's licenses at airport security checkpoints.
These updates come as the May 7, 2025 REAL ID enforcement deadline has passed, leaving approximately 56 million Americans still without compliant identification. Here's everything you need to know about the latest ID card requirements.
TSA's New $45 Fee for Non-REAL ID Travelers
On December 1, 2025, TSA introduced a significant policy change that will affect millions of domestic travelers.
- Fee Amount: $45 non-refundable charge for identity verification through the Confirm.ID system
- Start Date: February 1, 2026 at all U.S. airports
- Coverage Period: Each payment covers a 10-day travel window
- Processing Time: Identity verification takes 10-30 minutes at checkpoints
- No Guarantee: Payment doesn't guarantee verification—travelers whose identities cannot be verified may be turned away
The fee was initially proposed at $18 but increased after TSA officials determined the alternative identification program would cost more than anticipated. Currently, more than 94% of passengers already use REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification.
Digital ID Expansion Across 15 States
Mobile driver's licenses are rapidly expanding across the United States, offering travelers a convenient alternative to physical identification.
States Currently Accepting Digital IDs
The following states now support mobile driver's licenses through Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or dedicated state apps:
- Arizona, California, Colorado: Full digital ID support at TSA checkpoints
- Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois: Recently launched mobile ID programs
- Iowa, Maryland, Montana: Accepted at over 250 airports
- New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio: Full digital wallet integration
- Puerto Rico, Virginia, West Virginia: State-issued digital credentials
Illinois became the largest state to offer mobile IDs widely to residents on November 18, 2025. Virginia launched the first fully digital driver's license through a dedicated Mobile ID app on November 12, 2025.
Apple Wallet Digital ID Feature
Apple now allows iPhone users to create a Digital ID using a U.S. passport, even in states that don't support digital driver's licenses. This feature enables travelers to use their phone at TSA checkpoints nationwide.
Who Is Affected by ID Card Requirement Changes
These updates impact different groups of travelers in various ways.
For Domestic Air Travelers
If you don't have a REAL ID-compliant license (marked with a star in the upper right corner), you'll need to bring an alternative such as a U.S. passport, military ID, or permanent resident card. Otherwise, prepare to pay the $45 verification fee starting February 2026.
For EU Citizens Traveling to the UK
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can no longer use national ID cards to enter the UK—a valid passport is now required. However, those with settled or pre-settled status can use biometric ID cards until at least December 31, 2025.
For Non-EU Travelers to Europe
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) launched October 12, 2025, requiring biometric registration including fingerprints and facial photos for all non-EU visitors entering the Schengen Area for short stays.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant – Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain your REAL ID before the February 2026 fee deadline.
- Check Your Current ID: Look for a gold star in the upper right corner—if present, you're already compliant
- Gather Required Documents: U.S. birth certificate or passport, Social Security card or W-2, and two proofs of residence
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Many states require appointments for REAL ID applications—check your state's DMV website
- Visit Your Local DMV: Bring all original documents (copies are not accepted)
- Pay the Fee: REAL ID fees vary by state, typically $20-$40 for a standard license upgrade
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines for ID card requirement changes.
- December 31, 2025: UK deadline for EU citizens using non-biometric ID cards for entry
- February 1, 2026: TSA begins charging $45 fee for non-REAL ID travelers
- April 10, 2026: EU Entry/Exit System fully operational at all Schengen borders
- May 5, 2027: Complete REAL ID enforcement—no more warnings or grace periods
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Fly Without a REAL ID?
Yes, but starting February 1, 2026, you'll pay a $45 fee for TSA identity verification. Alternatively, you can use a U.S. passport, military ID, permanent resident card, or digital ID from a participating state.
Do I Need REAL ID for International Travel?
No, REAL ID is only required for domestic flights and accessing federal facilities. International travel requires a valid U.S. passport regardless of your driver's license status.
How Do I Add My License to Apple Wallet?
Open the Wallet app on your iPhone, tap the plus (+) button, select "Driver's License or State ID," and follow your state's verification process. Your state must be one of the 15 participating states for this feature to work.
Are Digital IDs Accepted at All Airports?
Digital IDs are currently accepted at over 250 TSA checkpoints nationwide, but only from states that have received TSA approval. Check the TSA website for the latest list of participating airports and states.
What You Need to Know – Bottom Line
The ID card requirements landscape is changing rapidly. With 56 million Americans still lacking REAL ID-compliant identification and a $45 TSA fee taking effect February 2026, now is the time to update your credentials or explore digital alternatives.
Whether you're updating to a REAL ID, adding your license to Apple Wallet, or ensuring your passport photo meets current requirements, taking action before the deadlines will save you time and money. For international travel, always ensure your passport and visa photos comply with the latest specifications for your destination country.
Sources: - [TSA REAL ID Fee Announcement](https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2025/12/01/tsa-introduces-new-45-fee-option-for-travelers-without-real-id) - [TSA REAL ID Official Page](https://www.tsa.gov/real-id) - [Illinois Mobile ID Launch](https://www.ilsos.gov/news/2025/november-18-2025-the-day-is-finally-here-giannoulias-launches-mobile-id.html) - [EU Entry/Exit System](https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen/smart-borders/entry-exit-system_en) - [UK Travel Requirements for EU Citizens](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/visiting-the-uk-as-an-eu-eea-or-swiss-citizen) - [USAGov REAL ID Guide](https://www.usa.gov/real-id) - [NPR REAL ID Fee Report](https://www.npr.org/2025/12/02/g-s1-100045/travelers-without-real-id-charged-fee)