ID Card Requirements Update: What's Changing in December 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes as December 2025 brings new TSA fees, expanded digital ID options, and critical EU biometric deadlines. With 94% of U.S. travelers already REAL ID compliant, millions still need to update their identification before February 2026.
The Transportation Security Administration announced on December 1, 2025, that travelers without acceptable ID will face a $45 fee starting February 1, 2026. Meanwhile, Apple's Digital ID feature and state mobile driver's licenses are providing new alternatives for tech-savvy travelers.
Key ID Card Requirement Changes for December 2025
Several major updates are affecting how Americans and international travelers verify their identity.
- TSA $45 Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without REAL ID or acceptable alternatives must pay $45 to use TSA ConfirmID verification system
- Digital ID Expansion: 14 states and Puerto Rico now support driver's licenses in Apple Wallet, accepted at 250+ airports
- Apple Digital ID: U.S. passport holders can now create a Digital ID in Apple Wallet even without a state-issued digital license
- EU Biometric Deadline: December 31, 2025 marks the end for non-biometric ID cards for UK settled status holders
- REAL ID Grace Period Ending: TSA's alternative verification options will require payment starting February 2026
The changes reflect ongoing efforts to modernize identity verification while maintaining security standards. Travelers should verify their ID compliance status before booking upcoming flights.
Who Is Affected by New ID Card Requirements
These changes impact different groups of travelers in specific ways. Understanding which requirements apply to you is essential for smooth travel.
For U.S. Domestic Travelers
Approximately 56 million Americans still lack REAL ID-compliant identification. If your driver's license doesn't have the star marking in the upper corner, you'll need to upgrade or carry an acceptable alternative like a passport.
For International Visitors to Europe
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES), launched October 12, 2025, requires biometric registration including fingerprints and facial scans for all non-EU nationals. Your digital EES record remains valid for 3 years after initial registration.
For EU Citizens with UK Settled Status
If you hold pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, December 31, 2025 is your deadline. After this date, only biometric ID cards meeting ICAO standards will be accepted for UK entry.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant - Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure your identification meets current requirements.
- Check Your Current ID: Look for the star symbol in the upper right corner of your driver's license—if it's there, you're already compliant
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of address (utility bills, bank statements)
- Schedule a DMV Appointment: Many states require appointments for REAL ID applications—book early to avoid delays
- Visit Your DMV: Bring all original documents (copies are not accepted) and complete the application in person
- Receive Your REAL ID: Processing times vary by state, typically 2-4 weeks for mail delivery
Digital ID Options: States and Features
Digital driver's licenses offer a convenient alternative to physical cards. Here are the current options available.
- Apple Wallet States: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, West Virginia
- Illinois Launch: November 18, 2025—largest state to offer mobile ID, accepted at 250 airports nationwide
- Apple Digital ID: Available to any U.S. passport holder through Apple Wallet, uses Face ID or Touch ID for security
- Coming Soon: Arkansas and Virginia have committed to Apple Wallet integration; Android support expanding in 2026
Important limitation: Digital IDs cannot replace physical identification in all situations. Law enforcement may still require physical documents, and international border crossings require physical passports.
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates for ID card requirement changes.
- December 31, 2025: EU biometric ID card deadline for UK settled status holders
- February 1, 2026: TSA $45 fee begins for travelers without acceptable ID
- April 10, 2026: Full EU Entry/Exit System implementation at all Schengen border points
- May 5, 2027: Federal agencies must achieve full REAL ID enforcement
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Don't Have REAL ID at the Airport?
Starting February 1, 2026, you can pay a $45 non-refundable fee to use TSA ConfirmID for a 10-day travel period. However, TSA officials warn that paying the fee does not guarantee verification—travelers whose identities cannot be confirmed may still be denied boarding.
Can I Use My Digital Driver's License for International Travel?
No. Digital IDs in Apple Wallet are not valid for international travel or border crossings. You must carry a physical U.S. passport for any international flights. Digital IDs are currently accepted only at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights and at select businesses for age verification.
How Do I Know If My ID Card Has a Biometric Chip?
Look for the biometric chip symbol on your card—a small rectangle with a circle inside, similar to the chip on credit cards. ICAO-compliant biometric ID cards store digital facial images and other biometric data. If you're unsure, contact your country's passport or ID card issuing authority.
What Are the Alternatives to REAL ID for Flying?
TSA accepts several alternatives: U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI), military ID, Permanent Resident Card, and Enhanced Driver's Licenses from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The December 2025 ID card requirements landscape brings both challenges and opportunities. The upcoming $45 TSA fee should motivate the remaining 56 million non-compliant Americans to obtain REAL ID, while digital ID expansion offers convenient alternatives for frequent travelers in participating states.
To ensure hassle-free travel, verify your ID meets current requirements before your next trip. If you need to apply for a passport or update your identification, make sure your passport photo meets all requirements—VisaPics can help you get compliant photos for any document type. Check your state's DMV website for REAL ID appointments and explore whether digital ID options are available in your area.