ID Card Requirements Update: Major Changes This Month
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes in December 2025, with the TSA announcing a new $45 fee for non-compliant travelers, the EU biometric ID deadline approaching on December 31, and digital ID acceptance expanding to 14 U.S. states. These updates impact approximately 56 million Americans without REAL ID-compliant identification.
Whether you're planning domestic travel, hold EU settled status in the UK, or want to use a mobile driver's license, understanding these new ID card requirements is essential for seamless travel in 2026.
Key ID Card Requirement Changes for December 2025
Three major developments are reshaping identification requirements this month:
- TSA $45 Fee Announced: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without REAL ID or acceptable alternatives must pay $45 for identity verification
- EU Biometric Deadline: Non-biometric EU national ID cards expire for UK entry on December 31, 2025
- Digital ID Expansion: 14 states now support mobile driver's licenses in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet
- Illinois Launch: Illinois became the largest state to offer mobile IDs widely on November 18, 2025
- 94% Compliance Rate: DHS reports 94% of travelers already have REAL ID-compliant identification
These changes represent the most significant shift in U.S. identification requirements since REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025. Additionally, EU citizens must act before the December 31 deadline to ensure continued UK entry with national ID cards.
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Requirement Updates
These changes affect different groups of travelers and residents in distinct ways.
For U.S. Domestic Travelers
Approximately 56 million Americans still lack REAL ID-compliant identification. If you're among them, you'll face the new $45 TSA fee starting February 2026 unless you obtain a REAL ID or carry an acceptable alternative like a U.S. passport. The fee grants only 10-day travel access and is non-refundable with no guarantee of verification.
For EU Citizens with UK Settled Status
If you hold pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), you can use non-biometric national ID cards until December 31, 2025. After this date, only ICAO-compliant biometric ID cards will be accepted indefinitely. Check for the biometric chip symbol—a small rectangle with a circle inside—on your ID card.
For Digital ID Early Adopters
Residents of Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia can now add driver's licenses to Apple Wallet. These digital IDs are accepted at over 250 TSA checkpoints nationwide.
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 a star symbol (★) in the upper right corner—if present, you're already REAL ID compliant
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare proof of full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status
- Visit Your State DMV Website: Each state has specific requirements and appointment systems for REAL ID applications
- Schedule an Appointment: Most states require in-person visits; schedule early to avoid processing delays
- Consider Alternatives: A U.S. passport or Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, or Vermont serves as an acceptable alternative
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical ID card requirement deadlines on your calendar:
- May 7, 2025 (Passed): REAL ID enforcement began at all TSA checkpoints
- December 31, 2025: EU biometric ID deadline for UK entry under EUSS
- February 1, 2026: TSA $45 fee takes effect for non-compliant travelers
- April 2, 2025 (Coming): UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) required for EU visitors without settled status
- 2029: UK mandatory digital ID card system (BritCard) planned for all residents
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Don't Have REAL ID at the Airport?
Starting February 1, 2026, you'll need to pay a $45 non-refundable fee through Pay.gov to use TSA Confirm.ID, a biometric verification system. The screening takes 10-30 minutes, grants 10-day travel access, but doesn't guarantee verification. Currently, travelers can still fly with additional screening at no charge.
Can I Use a Digital Driver's License Instead of REAL ID?
Yes, if you live in one of the 14 participating states or territories. Digital IDs stored in Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet are accepted at over 250 airports. However, TSA recommends carrying a physical backup ID when traveling, as acceptance is still limited.
Do I Need a Biometric ID Card to Enter the UK?
If you have EU settled or pre-settled status, you need an ICAO-compliant biometric ID card after December 31, 2025. Look for the biometric chip symbol on your card. Without settled status, EU citizens need a valid passport and, from April 2025, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
What You Need to Know About ID Card Requirements
The December 2025 ID card requirements update brings significant changes that require proactive preparation. With 56 million Americans still lacking REAL ID compliance and the TSA's $45 fee launching in February, now is the time to verify your identification meets current standards. EU citizens should also check their biometric ID status before the December 31 deadline.
When preparing any government identification, ensure your passport photo meets official requirements—proper photo specifications are equally important as document compliance. Visit VisaPics to verify your photo meets the exact requirements for REAL ID, passport, or visa applications across 172 countries and over 950 document types.