ID Card Requirements Update: What's Changing in 2026
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes as we enter 2026, with the TSA introducing a $45 fee for travelers without REAL ID starting February 1, 2026. This update affects millions of Americans who haven't yet upgraded their identification documents.
The changes come after REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025, marking the end of years of deadline extensions. Currently, more than 94% of passengers already use REAL ID-compliant identification, but millions still need to upgrade their documents.
Key ID Card Changes for 2026
Here are the most important updates to identification requirements that take effect in early 2026:
- TSA $45 Fee: Starting February 1, 2026, travelers without REAL ID must pay $45 for alternative identity verification through TSA ConfirmID
- 10-Day Travel Window: The $45 fee covers a 10-day period for domestic air travel, not per flight
- Digital ID Expansion: 15 states now accept digital driver's licenses at TSA checkpoints, with 7 more planned for 2026
- EU Biometric Requirements: Non-biometric ID cards are no longer accepted for UK entry as of December 31, 2025
- Apple Digital ID: iPhone users can now create digital IDs using their U.S. passport, accepted at 250+ airports nationwide
The TSA initially proposed an $18 fee but increased it to $45 after determining higher operational costs for the ConfirmID verification system. The fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee boarding—travelers whose identities cannot be confirmed may still be denied entry.
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Updates
These changes impact different groups of travelers and document holders in various ways. Understanding your situation helps you prepare accordingly.
For Domestic Air Travelers
If your driver's license doesn't have the star symbol in the upper right corner, you'll need to upgrade to a REAL ID or use an alternative like a passport. Without compliant ID, you'll face the new $45 fee starting February 1, 2026.
For International Travelers
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can no longer use national ID cards to enter the UK—a valid passport is now required. Additionally, the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) now collects biometric data from all non-EU nationals upon entry.
For Green Card Holders
New DHS protocols require all non-U.S. citizens, including permanent residents, to have photographs taken by CBP officials at every entry and exit point. This applies at airports, land crossings, and seaports.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant: Step by Step
Follow these steps to upgrade your identification and avoid the $45 TSA fee:
- Check Your Current ID: Look for the star symbol in the upper right corner of your driver's license or state ID
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of residency
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Many states require appointments for REAL ID applications—book early to avoid delays
- Visit Your Local DMV: Bring all original documents (no copies accepted) and complete the application in person
- Receive Your REAL ID: Most states mail the new ID within 2-4 weeks; temporary IDs are not accepted by TSA
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines for ID card requirements compliance:
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement began at all TSA checkpoints
- December 31, 2025: UK stopped accepting non-biometric EU ID cards for entry
- February 1, 2026: TSA $45 fee takes effect for travelers without compliant ID
- May 5, 2027: Federal agencies must achieve full REAL ID enforcement
- December 2026: All EU member states must provide Digital Identity Wallets
Frequently Asked Questions
What Documents Can I Use Instead of REAL ID?
Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, passport card, Global Entry card, NEXUS card, SENTRI card, or active-duty military ID. Enhanced Driver's Licenses from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are also accepted. If you travel internationally, your passport already meets all domestic ID requirements.
How Does the TSA ConfirmID Fee Work?
Travelers without acceptable ID can visit the TSA website, complete identity verification steps, and pay the $45 fee. The process takes 10-30 minutes and provides a 10-day travel window. However, payment doesn't guarantee verification—if your identity cannot be confirmed, you may be denied boarding with no refund.
Which States Accept Digital Driver's Licenses?
Currently, 15 states plus Puerto Rico accept digital IDs at TSA checkpoints. Leading states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, and Virginia. Apple Digital ID allows passport-based verification in all states, accepted at over 250 airports nationwide.
Are Digital IDs as Secure as Physical IDs?
Digital IDs meet ISO/IEC 18013-5 security standards and require a REAL ID-compliant physical license as the basis. They offer enhanced security features including biometric authentication. However, TSA recommends always carrying a physical ID as backup.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The February 2026 ID card requirements update brings significant financial penalties for non-compliance. With the $45 TSA fee taking effect February 1, 2026, travelers should prioritize obtaining REAL ID-compliant identification or use acceptable alternatives like passports.
Ensure your passport photo meets current requirements before applying for new documents, as the State Department now rejects AI-edited images. For those needing visa application photos, VisaPics provides compliant photos that meet all official specifications. Check your state's DMV website today to schedule a REAL ID appointment and avoid last-minute rushes.