Major ID Card Requirements Changes in December 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes in December 2025, affecting millions of travelers across the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union. The Transportation Security Administration announced a new $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification, while digital IDs expand to more states.
These updates come as approximately 56 million Americans still lack compliant identification following the May 7, 2025 REAL ID enforcement deadline. Additionally, EU citizens face a December 31, 2025 deadline for biometric ID cards to enter the UK.
Key ID Card Changes You Need to Know
Here are the most important ID card requirements updates taking effect this month and into early 2026:
- TSA $45 Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without acceptable ID must pay $45 for identity verification through the ConfirmID system
- Digital ID Expansion: 15 states plus Puerto Rico now support driver's licenses in Apple Wallet, accepted at over 250 airports
- UK Biometric Deadline: EU citizens with settled status must have ICAO-compliant biometric ID cards by December 31, 2025
- EU Entry/Exit System: Biometric checks including fingerprints and facial scans now required at Schengen borders
- Apple Digital ID: U.S. passport holders can now create digital identification even without a REAL ID-compliant license
These changes represent the largest overhaul of travel identification requirements in years. However, travelers have multiple options to ensure compliance before the new fees take effect.
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Changes
The new ID card requirements impact different groups of travelers in distinct ways. Understanding which rules apply to you is essential for avoiding delays and fees.
For U.S. Domestic Travelers
If your driver's license lacks the gold star symbol, you'll need to upgrade to REAL ID or face the $45 verification fee starting February 2026. Currently, only 60% of Americans have compliant IDs. TSA PreCheck members are not exempt from these requirements.
For EU Citizens Traveling to the UK
If you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, check your national ID card for the biometric chip symbol (a small rectangle with a circle inside). Cards without this chip may not be accepted after December 31, 2025—bring your passport instead.
For Non-EU Travelers to Europe
The EU Entry/Exit System now requires biometric registration including fingerprints and facial photos at Schengen Area borders. First-time visitors must provide all 10 fingerprints. Expect longer wait times of up to 3 hours at major airports during the rollout phase.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant - Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID before the February 2026 fee deadline:
- Check Your Current ID: Look for the gold star (★) in the upper right corner—if present, you're already compliant
- Gather Required Documents: You'll need proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of residency
- Schedule a DMV Appointment: Many states require appointments for REAL ID applications—book early to avoid delays
- Bring Original Documents: Photocopies are not accepted; all documents must be originals or certified copies
- Pay the Application Fee: Fees vary by state, typically $25-$50, significantly less than the recurring $45 TSA verification fee
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to stay compliant with new ID card requirements:
- December 31, 2025: EU citizens must have biometric ID cards for UK entry or use passport instead
- January 2026: Half of EU border points should be operating the Entry/Exit System
- February 1, 2026: TSA begins charging $45 fee for travelers without acceptable identification
- April 10, 2026: EU Entry/Exit System fully operational at all Schengen borders
- May 5, 2027: End of TSA's flexible enforcement period for non-compliant IDs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Fly Without a REAL ID?
Yes, you can still fly domestically without a REAL ID, but starting February 1, 2026, you'll pay a $45 non-refundable fee each time. This fee covers a 10-day travel window and requires 10-30 minutes for identity verification. Payment does not guarantee you'll pass security—if your identity cannot be confirmed, you may be denied boarding.
Which States Accept Digital IDs at Airports?
Currently, 15 states plus Puerto Rico support digital driver's licenses in Apple Wallet: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. Digital IDs are accepted at over 250 airports, though not all TSA checkpoints support them.
What Alternatives to REAL ID Are Accepted?
TSA accepts several alternatives including U.S. passport, U.S. passport card, Global Entry card, military ID, and state-issued Enhanced Driver's License. If you have any of these documents, you can use them instead of obtaining a REAL ID. Ensure your passport photo meets current requirements if applying for a new passport.
Do I Need to Upgrade My EU ID Card for UK Travel?
If you have UK settled or pre-settled status and your national ID card has a biometric chip, it will be accepted indefinitely. If your card lacks the chip, you should travel with your passport after December 31, 2025. Non-biometric cards may be rejected at the UK border.
What You Need to Know - Bottom Line
The December 2025 ID card requirements updates mark a significant shift toward stricter identification standards worldwide. With TSA's $45 fee starting February 2026 and UK biometric requirements taking effect December 31, now is the time to verify your ID compliance status.
Whether you need to upgrade to REAL ID, check your EU national ID card for biometric compliance, or set up a digital ID in Apple Wallet, taking action now will save you time, money, and travel headaches. For international travel, ensure your passport photo specifications meet current standards, and use VisaPics to create compliant photos for any visa or ID application.