Major ID Card Requirements Changes for 2026
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes as the TSA announces a new $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID-compliant identification, effective February 1, 2026. This update affects millions of Americans who haven't yet obtained their REAL ID.
Additionally, EU citizens face a critical December 31, 2025 deadline for UK travel using national ID cards. Meanwhile, digital ID acceptance continues expanding across the United States, with 15 states now supporting mobile driver's licenses.
TSA's New $45 Fee for Non-REAL ID Travelers
The Transportation Security Administration announced a significant policy change that will impact travelers without proper identification.
- $45 Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without REAL ID can pay $45 to use the TSA Confirm.ID verification system
- 10-Day Travel Window: The fee covers identity verification for a 10-day period at TSA checkpoints
- No Guarantee: Paying the fee doesn't guarantee verification—travelers whose identities cannot be confirmed may be turned away
- Online Payment: Fees can be paid online before arriving at the airport, though airport processing may take up to 30 minutes
- Non-Refundable: TSA officials confirmed the fee is non-refundable regardless of verification outcome
According to TSA officials, approximately 56 million Americans still lack REAL ID-compliant identification. However, 94% of current travelers already use compliant IDs or acceptable alternatives.
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Changes
These ID card requirements updates impact several distinct groups of travelers and residents.
For US Domestic Travelers
If your driver's license doesn't display the star symbol (★) in the upper corner, you'll need to either upgrade to a REAL ID or carry an acceptable alternative like a US passport. Without proper ID after February 2026, you'll face the $45 fee at TSA checkpoints.
For EU Citizens Traveling to the UK
EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme must check their national ID cards for biometric compliance. Non-biometric ID cards will not be accepted for UK entry after December 31, 2025.
For Digital ID Users
Residents in 15 states can now use digital driver's licenses at over 250 US airports. Virginia led the way with its Mobile ID app launch on November 12, 2025, followed by Illinois on November 18. However, TSA recommends carrying physical backup identification.
How to Get Your REAL ID - Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain your REAL ID-compliant driver's license before the February 2026 fee takes effect.
- Check Current Status: Look for the star symbol (★) on your current license—if present, you're already REAL ID compliant
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of current address
- Use Original Documents: Bring original or certified copies only—photocopies are not accepted at DMV offices
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Visit your state's DMV website to book an in-person appointment, as wait times can be significant
- Allow Processing Time: Physical cards may take up to 3 weeks to arrive—TSA does not accept temporary paper cards
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates for ID card requirements compliance.
- December 31, 2025: UK deadline for EU/EEA citizens using non-biometric ID cards—switch to biometric cards or passports
- February 1, 2026: TSA's $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID takes effect at all US airports
- Ongoing: Digital ID expansion continues with more states adding Apple Wallet and Google Wallet support
- 2029 (Planned): UK's mandatory digital ID scheme ("BritCard") expected to launch for all residents
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Don't Have REAL ID After February 2026?
You can still fly domestically by paying the $45 TSA Confirm.ID fee, which provides 10-day checkpoint access. Alternatively, you can use acceptable alternatives like a US passport, passport card, military ID, or Global Entry card without any additional fees.
How Do I Know If My EU ID Card is Biometric?
Look for a small rectangle with a circle inside—this biometric chip symbol indicates ICAO compliance. If your card lacks this symbol, you'll need to use your passport for UK travel after December 31, 2025. Ensure your ID is linked to your EUSS status at gov.uk.
Can I Use Digital ID Instead of REAL ID?
Digital IDs through Apple Wallet are accepted at over 250 US airports in participating states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, and Virginia. However, TSA still recommends carrying physical identification as the system remains in beta testing.
Is REAL ID Required for International Travel?
No. REAL ID is only required for domestic flights, military bases, and federal facilities. International travel still requires a valid US passport. Your REAL ID cannot replace a passport for border crossings.
What You Need to Know About ID Requirements in 2026
The key takeaway from these ID card requirements updates is preparation. With the TSA's $45 fee starting February 2026 and the UK biometric deadline on December 31, 2025, now is the time to ensure your identification documents are compliant.
Whether you're upgrading to REAL ID or ensuring your passport photo meets requirements, staying ahead of these changes will save you time, money, and stress at checkpoints. For travelers needing updated identification photos, VisaPics can help ensure your documents meet the latest official specifications for visa and passport applications.
Sources: - [TSA Press Release - $45 Fee Announcement](https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2025/12/01/tsa-introduces-new-45-fee-option-for-travelers-without-real-id) - [TSA REAL ID Information](https://www.tsa.gov/real-id) - [USAGov - How to Get REAL ID](https://www.usa.gov/real-id) - [the3million - EU ID Card Travel FAQ](https://the3million.org.uk/faq/euss-travel-id)