ID Card Requirements Update: What's Changing in December 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes as December 2025 brings critical deadlines for travelers worldwide. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced a new $45 fee for passengers without REAL ID-compliant identification, effective February 1, 2026.
With approximately 56 million Americans still lacking REAL ID-compliant identification, these changes affect millions of domestic travelers. Additionally, digital ID adoption is accelerating, and UK entry requirements for EU citizens reach a crucial deadline this month.
Key ID Card Changes for December 2025
Several major policy changes are now in effect or coming soon:
- TSA $45 Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without acceptable ID pay $45 for identity verification through TSA ConfirmID
- REAL ID Enforcement: Since May 7, 2025, standard driver's licenses without the star symbol are no longer accepted at TSA checkpoints
- Digital ID Expansion: 15 states plus Puerto Rico now support digital driver's licenses in Apple Wallet
- UK Biometric Deadline: Non-biometric national ID cards will no longer be accepted for UK entry after December 31, 2025
- EU Entry/Exit System: Biometric registration including fingerprints and facial photos required for non-EU visitors entering the Schengen Area
These changes represent the most significant shift in ID requirements since REAL ID enforcement began earlier this year. Travelers should verify their identification meets current standards before booking flights.
Who Is Affected by ID Card Requirement Changes
The new ID card requirements impact several distinct groups of travelers. Understanding which category you fall into helps determine your next steps.
For US Domestic Travelers
If you're flying within the United States, you now need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, passport, military ID, or other acceptable identification. Without proper ID after February 1, 2026, you'll face a $45 non-refundable fee for identity verification through TSA ConfirmID.
For EU Citizens Traveling to the UK
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can no longer use national ID cards to enter the UK as tourists—a valid passport is now required. However, if you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you can continue using your biometric national ID card indefinitely after December 31, 2025.
For Travelers Entering the Schengen Area
Non-EU visitors entering any Schengen Area country must now register in the Entry/Exit System (EES). This requires providing fingerprints and a facial scan at the border, with data retained for three years. Children under 12 are exempt from fingerprint requirements.
How to Get Your REAL ID - Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card:
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare proof of identity (passport, birth certificate), Social Security card, and two proofs of current address
- Check Your State's DMV Website: Each state has specific requirements—verify exact document requirements before visiting
- Schedule an Appointment: Many DMV offices require appointments for REAL ID applications to ensure adequate processing time
- Visit Your Local DMV: Bring all original documents (copies are not accepted) and pay the applicable fee
- Verify the Star Symbol: Your new ID should display the black or gold star marking, indicating REAL ID compliance
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar:
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement began at all TSA checkpoints (already in effect)
- December 31, 2025: UK deadline for non-biometric ID cards under EU Settlement Scheme
- February 1, 2026: TSA's $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID takes effect
- April 10, 2026: EU Entry/Exit System fully operational at all Schengen borders
Digital Driver's License: States and How It Works
Digital IDs offer a convenient alternative to physical cards. Apple Wallet and other platforms now support digital driver's licenses at over 250 US airports.
Currently, these 15 states and territories support digital driver's licenses in Apple Wallet:
- Western States: Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Montana, New Mexico
- Midwestern States: Illinois, Iowa, North Dakota, Ohio
- Eastern States: Georgia, Maryland, West Virginia
- Territories: Puerto Rico
Additionally, Apple's new Digital ID feature allows iPhone users to create an ID using their US passport, even in states that don't yet support digital driver's licenses. However, digital IDs cannot replace physical passports for international travel or border crossings.
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 identity verification. This covers a 10-day travel window. However, payment doesn't guarantee verification—travelers whose identities cannot be verified may be denied boarding.
Can I Use My Digital ID for All Travel?
Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints in participating airports, but they cannot replace a physical passport for international travel. Most states also require you to carry a physical ID if requested by law enforcement.
Will My Non-Biometric EU ID Card Work in the UK After 2025?
No. After December 31, 2025, only biometric national ID cards meeting ICAO standards will be accepted for UK entry under the EU Settlement Scheme. Check your ID card for the biometric chip symbol—a small rectangle with a circle inside. If it's not there, use your passport instead.
Do I Need to Update My Passport Photo for REAL ID?
When applying for REAL ID, you'll need a new photo taken at the DMV. Ensure your photo meets all passport photo requirements—no glasses, neutral expression, and proper lighting. VisaPics can help you prepare compliant photos before your appointment.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The December 2025 ID card requirements update brings significant changes for travelers. With 56 million Americans still lacking REAL ID compliance and the new $45 TSA fee starting February 2026, now is the time to verify your identification meets current standards.
Whether you're updating to REAL ID, exploring digital driver's license options, or ensuring your EU biometric ID card is compliant for UK travel, proper documentation is essential. Make sure your passport photo meets requirements before any application—VisaPics offers instant verification for over 950 document types across 172 countries.