ID Card Requirements Update: What's Changing in 2025-2026
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes as we close out 2025 and head into 2026. The TSA announced a $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification, 15 states now support digital IDs through Apple Wallet, and EU citizens face critical deadlines for UK travel.
These updates affect millions of travelers across the United States and Europe. Whether you're planning domestic flights, international travel, or simply need to update your identification documents, understanding these new requirements is essential.
Key ID Card Changes You Need to Know
Several major developments are reshaping identification requirements for travelers and residents.
- TSA ConfirmID Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without acceptable ID can pay $45 for a 10-day verification period
- REAL ID Enforcement: Active since May 7, 2025—standard driver's licenses without the star symbol are no longer accepted for domestic flights
- Digital ID Expansion: 15 states plus Puerto Rico now support mobile driver's licenses in Apple Wallet at 250+ airports
- UK Biometric Deadline: EU citizens must have biometric ID cards by December 31, 2025 to enter the UK with national ID
- Illinois Mobile ID: Launched November 18, 2025, becoming the largest state to offer digital driver's licenses
Additionally, approximately 56 million Americans still lack REAL ID-compliant identification, according to the Department of Homeland Security. However, compliance has improved significantly, with over 94% of travelers now using acceptable forms of identification.
Who Is Affected By These ID Card Requirements
These changes impact different groups of travelers and residents in specific ways.
For Domestic Air Travelers
If your driver's license lacks the star symbol in the upper corner, you'll need either a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, or must use the new TSA ConfirmID system for $45. Digital IDs through Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet are accepted at over 250 airports nationwide.
For EU Citizens Traveling to the UK
You can use your national ID card for UK entry until December 31, 2025. After this date, only biometric ID cards meeting ICAO standards will be accepted. Check for the biometric chip symbol—a small rectangle with a circle inside—on your card.
For Illinois Residents
You can now add your driver's license or state ID to Apple Wallet for use at TSA checkpoints. Android support through Google and Samsung Wallets is coming in 2026. This digital ID works at O'Hare, Midway, and Lambert airports, plus 250+ other U.S. airports.
How to Get REAL ID-Compliant Identification - Step by Step
Follow these steps to upgrade your driver's license to REAL ID status at your local DMV.
- Gather Required Documents: Bring proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of residency (utility bills, bank statements)
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Many states allow online booking—check your state's DMV website for availability
- Complete Application: Fill out the REAL ID application form and pay the required fee (varies by state, typically $25-45)
- Provide Biometric Data: Have your photo taken and, in some states, provide a digital signature
- Receive Your Card: Most states mail REAL ID cards within 2-4 weeks; you'll receive a temporary paper license
How to Add Digital ID to Apple Wallet
Residents of participating states can add their driver's license to Apple Wallet using these steps.
- Open Apple Wallet: Tap the (+) button at the top of the screen on your iPhone
- Select Driver's License: Choose "Driver's License or State ID" from the options
- Scan Physical ID: Use your iPhone camera to scan your physical driver's license
- Complete Face Verification: Take a selfie and complete facial movement verification for security
- Wait for State Approval: Your state DMV will verify your information before activation
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to avoid travel disruptions.
- December 31, 2025: UK biometric ID card requirement takes effect for EU citizens
- December 31, 2025: US ends grace period for AI-edited passport photos
- February 1, 2026: TSA begins $45 ConfirmID fee for travelers without acceptable identification
- 2026 (Date TBD): Illinois digital ID expands to Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet
- April 10, 2026: EU Entry/Exit System becomes fully operational at all Schengen borders
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Don't Have REAL ID at the Airport?
Starting February 1, 2026, you can use TSA's ConfirmID system by paying a $45 fee for a 10-day verification window. The process takes 10-30 minutes and requires online pre-registration. However, payment doesn't guarantee verification—you may still be denied boarding if your identity cannot be confirmed.
Which States Accept Digital Driver's Licenses?
Currently, 15 states plus Puerto Rico support mobile IDs in Apple Wallet: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Virginia, and West Virginia. Virginia offers its own Mobile ID app accepted at all state airports.
Can I Use Digital ID for International Travel?
No. Digital IDs through Apple Wallet or other platforms only work for domestic TSA checkpoints. For international travel, you must carry a physical U.S. passport. Digital ID is not a replacement for your passport and cannot be used for border crossings.
What ID Documents Are Accepted Without the TSA Fee?
You can avoid the $45 fee by presenting: a U.S. passport or passport card, REAL ID-compliant license (with star symbol), Enhanced Driver's License, DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI), military ID, or permanent resident card. Digital IDs are also accepted at 250+ airports.
What You Need to Know Before You Travel
The landscape of ID card requirements continues to evolve rapidly. With REAL ID enforcement now in full effect and the TSA's new $45 fee launching in February 2026, travelers should prioritize upgrading their identification documents. The expansion of digital IDs to 15 states offers convenient alternatives for those with compatible smartphones.
Before your next trip, verify that your identification meets current requirements. If you're applying for a new passport or renewing existing documents, ensure your passport photo meets all official requirements. For travelers heading to the UK or Europe, check that your ID card has the biometric chip symbol before the December 31 deadline. Visit our photo requirements guide to ensure your visa and passport photos comply with the latest standards.