ID Card Requirements Update: What's New in January 2025
ID card requirements across the United States and Europe have undergone significant changes as 2025 begins. On January 14, 2025, the TSA published a final rule establishing a phased approach to REAL ID enforcement, providing clarity for the May 7, 2025 deadline that affects all domestic air travelers.
These updates come alongside the expansion of digital driver's licenses to 15 states, new EU Entry/Exit System biometric requirements, and critical UK deadlines for EU citizens. Whether you're flying domestically, traveling to Europe, or managing international identification, understanding these changes is essential.
Key ID Card Requirement Changes for 2025
Several major changes are reshaping how Americans and international travelers manage their identification documents.
- TSA Final Rule (January 14, 2025): Federal agencies can now implement REAL ID requirements using phased enforcement plans through May 2027
- REAL ID Enforcement (May 7, 2025): Non-compliant state IDs will no longer be accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights
- Digital ID Expansion: 15 states now support mobile driver's licenses through Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or dedicated apps
- EU EES Launch: 29 European countries began rolling out biometric Entry/Exit System requirements in October 2025
- UK Biometric Deadline (December 31, 2025): EU/EEA citizens need ICAO-compliant biometric ID cards for UK entry
- TSA $45 Fee (February 1, 2026): Travelers without compliant ID will pay for verification through the Confirm.ID system
The Federal Register rule ensures agencies have flexibility while maintaining security standards. However, full enforcement must be achieved by May 5, 2027.
Who Is Affected by These ID Changes
These ID card requirement updates impact different groups in specific ways. Understanding your situation helps ensure you remain compliant.
For US Domestic Travelers
If you fly within the United States, you need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license (marked with a star) or an acceptable alternative by May 7, 2025. According to the TSA, only about 56% of driver's licenses are currently REAL ID-compliant, meaning millions of Americans still need to upgrade.
For EU/EEA Citizens in the UK
If you hold pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS), check your national ID card for the biometric chip symbol—a small rectangle with a circle inside. Without a biometric ID card, you must use your passport for UK entry after December 31, 2025.
For Travelers to Europe
Non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area will have fingerprints and facial photos collected under the new Entry/Exit System. Initial reports from Euronews show wait times up to 3 hours at peak periods during the rollout phase.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant: Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure your identification meets the new REAL ID requirements before the May deadline.
- Check Your Current ID: Look for the star symbol in the upper corner of your driver's license—if present, you're already compliant
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of address, and lawful status documentation
- Schedule a DMV Appointment: Visit your state's DMV website to book an in-person appointment, as REAL ID applications typically cannot be completed online
- Bring Original Documents: Present original documents (not copies) at your appointment—requirements vary by state, so check your local DMV website
- Consider Alternatives: If you have a valid US passport, passport card, or Global Entry card, these serve as acceptable alternatives to REAL ID
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to stay ahead of ID card requirement deadlines.
- January 14, 2025: TSA final rule on phased REAL ID enforcement takes effect
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement begins at all TSA checkpoints nationwide
- December 31, 2025: UK stops accepting non-biometric EU/EEA national ID cards for EUSS holders
- February 1, 2026: TSA's $45 Confirm.ID verification fee begins for non-compliant travelers
- April 10, 2026: EU EES fully replaces manual passport stamping
- May 5, 2027: Deadline for all federal agencies to achieve full REAL ID enforcement
States Offering Digital Driver's Licenses
Digital IDs provide a convenient alternative that works at TSA checkpoints. The following 15 states now support mobile driver's licenses.
- Apple Wallet Support: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, West Virginia, and Puerto Rico
- Dedicated State App: Virginia offers the Virginia Mobile ID through both Apple and Android platforms
- Coming in 2026: Connecticut, Kentucky, Mississippi, New York, Oklahoma, and Utah are planning mobile ID launches
According to the Illinois Secretary of State, Illinois became the largest state to launch mobile IDs in November 2025, with Android support expected in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't have REAL ID by May 7, 2025?
You can still travel with alternative IDs like a US passport, passport card, or Global Entry card. If you only have a non-compliant state ID, you may face additional screening and delays. Starting February 2026, a $45 fee will apply for verification through the Confirm.ID system.
How do I know if my ID card has a biometric chip?
Look for the biometric chip symbol—a small rectangle with a circle inside—usually on the front of your card. This symbol indicates ICAO-compliant biometric data storage. If you don't see this symbol, your ID may not meet new UK or EU requirements.
Can I use a digital driver's license for international travel?
Digital IDs work at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights, but international travel still requires a physical passport. Your digital ID cannot replace passport photo requirements or visa documentation for crossing international borders.
What documents do I need to get a REAL ID?
At minimum, you need proof of: full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, two proofs of your current address, and lawful status. Individual states may have additional requirements—check your local DMV before your appointment.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The January 2025 TSA final rule provides some flexibility through phased enforcement, but the May 7, 2025 REAL ID deadline remains firm. With only about 56% of driver's licenses currently compliant, millions of Americans need to act now to avoid travel disruptions.
Before your next trip, verify your identification meets current requirements. Check that your passport photo is current and compliant with the latest specifications, and ensure your travel documents align with your destination's requirements. For EU travelers, the new Entry/Exit System means allowing extra time for biometric registration at borders. Taking action now prevents last-minute complications at the airport.