ID Card Requirements Update: What's Changing in 2025
ID card requirements are undergoing significant changes in 2025, affecting millions of travelers and workers worldwide. On January 13, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published a final rule establishing REAL ID enforcement beginning May 7, 2025, while Apple launched its Digital ID feature on November 12, 2025, allowing U.S. passport holders to store identification on their iPhones.
These changes represent the most substantial updates to identification requirements in nearly two decades. Whether you're planning domestic travel, international trips, or need ID for work purposes, understanding these new requirements is essential to avoid delays and complications.
Key ID Card Requirement Changes for 2025
Multiple governments and technology companies have introduced new ID card standards. Here are the most important updates:
- REAL ID Enforcement (May 7, 2025): TSA will no longer accept non-compliant state IDs for domestic flights and federal building access
- Apple Digital ID Launch (November 12, 2025): U.S. passport holders can now create digital IDs in Apple Wallet for TSA checkpoint use at 250+ airports
- UK Digital ID Mandate (2029): United Kingdom announced mandatory digital ID cards ("BritCard") for all workers by 2029, announced September 26, 2025
- State Mobile IDs Expansion: 12 U.S. states plus Puerto Rico now support mobile driver's licenses in Apple Wallet, including Montana, North Dakota, and West Virginia added in recent months
- Phased Federal Enforcement: Federal agencies have until May 5, 2027, to implement full REAL ID compliance across all services
These changes affect not only air travelers but also anyone accessing federal facilities, applying for passports, or proving identity for employment. Additionally, many countries are updating their passport photo requirements to include biometric standards.
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Updates
The new ID card requirements impact different groups in specific ways. Understanding how these changes affect you is crucial for proper preparation.
For Domestic Air Travelers
Starting May 7, 2025, every traveler age 18 and older must present a REAL ID-compliant license or acceptable alternative to board commercial flights within the United States. Passengers without compliant identification can expect delays, additional screening, and possible denial of boarding if identity cannot be verified. Currently, 81% of U.S. travelers already use REAL ID or approved alternatives like passports.
For State ID and Driver's License Holders
If your state-issued ID lacks a star marking (★) in the top corner, it is not REAL ID-compliant. You must visit your local DMV to upgrade before the May 7 deadline. The process typically requires proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents proving residency.
For UK Workers and Residents
Beginning in 2029, all UK workers must possess a digital ID card stored on smartphones as part of mandatory Right to Work checks. The government-built "BritCard" will be mandatory for employment verification but voluntary for other purposes. Over 2.9 million UK citizens have signed a petition opposing this requirement due to privacy and digital exclusion concerns.
For Apple iPhone Users
U.S. passport holders with iPhone 8 or later can now create a Digital ID in Apple Wallet to use at TSA checkpoints. This feature works at over 250 airports nationwide for domestic travel, though it cannot replace physical passports for international border crossing. More than 12 states also support adding state-issued mobile driver's licenses.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant - Step by Step
Getting a REAL ID-compliant license before the May 7, 2025 deadline is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Check Your Current ID: Look for a star (★) marking in the top corner of your driver's license or state ID card - this indicates REAL ID compliance
- Gather Required Documents: You'll need proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card or W-2 form, and two documents proving residency (utility bills, bank statements, rental agreements)
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Visit your state DMV website to book an appointment - many states allow online scheduling to reduce wait times
- Visit DMV Office: Bring all required documents and payment (fees vary by state, typically $20-$80) - the DMV will verify documents and take a new photo
- Receive Your REAL ID: Most states mail the new REAL ID-compliant card within 7-14 business days - some provide temporary paper IDs for immediate use
How to Set Up Apple Digital ID - Step by Step
iPhone users can add their U.S. passport to Apple Wallet in minutes. Here's the process:
- Update to Latest iOS: Ensure your iPhone 8 or later is running the most recent iOS version with Digital ID support
- Open Wallet App: Tap the + button in the top right corner and select "Digital ID" from the available options
- Scan Your Passport: Follow on-screen instructions to scan the photo page of your U.S. passport using your iPhone camera
- Complete Facial Scan: Take a selfie and perform facial movements for biometric verification - this ensures the passport belongs to you
- Submit for Verification: Apple verifies your information with the issuing authority (processing typically completes within minutes to a few hours)
- Start Using Digital ID: Once verified, use your Digital ID at participating TSA checkpoints by holding your iPhone near the identity reader
Important Dates and Timeline for ID Card Changes
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to ensure compliance:
- January 13, 2025: TSA published final rule establishing REAL ID enforcement framework and phased implementation schedule
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement begins - non-compliant state IDs no longer accepted at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights
- November 12, 2025: Apple launched Digital ID feature allowing U.S. passport holders to create digital identification in Apple Wallet
- December 2025: UK pubs, clubs, and shops begin accepting digital ID for age verification and alcohol purchases
- May 5, 2027: Deadline for full REAL ID compliance across all federal agencies and services
- 2029: UK mandatory digital ID ("BritCard") requirement takes effect for all workers and Right to Work verification
Frequently Asked Questions About ID Card Requirements
What Happens If I Don't Have REAL ID By May 7, 2025?
If you arrive at a TSA checkpoint without REAL ID-compliant identification, you must present an acceptable alternative such as a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or DHS Trusted Traveler card (Global Entry, SENTRI). Without any acceptable ID, TSA will conduct additional screening to verify your identity, which may cause significant delays. If identity cannot be verified, you will not be permitted to board your flight.
Can I Use Apple Digital ID Instead of REAL ID for Domestic Flights?
Yes, Apple Digital ID created from a U.S. passport can be used at TSA checkpoints as an acceptable alternative to REAL ID. The feature currently works at over 250 airports nationwide for domestic travel. However, you cannot use it for international travel or border crossing - you must carry your physical passport for international trips.
How Do I Know If My State ID Is REAL ID Compliant?
Check for a star symbol (★) in the top corner of your driver's license or state ID card. This marking indicates REAL ID compliance. Some states use a different marking - enhanced driver's licenses (EDL) from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont feature a flag and are also compliant. If your card lacks these markings, visit your state DMV to upgrade before May 7, 2025.
Will Digital ID Cards Replace Physical IDs Completely?
Not immediately. Digital IDs are expanding but remain optional in most jurisdictions. The UK's mandatory digital ID for workers begins in 2029, while U.S. digital IDs remain voluntary alternatives. Furthermore, physical identification remains required for international travel, even if you have a digital version. Experts recommend maintaining both digital and physical IDs during this transition period.
Do Photo Requirements Change With Digital ID Cards?
Yes, digital ID systems often have stricter biometric photo requirements than traditional IDs. Apple Digital ID requires a facial scan matching your passport photo with precise specifications. When renewing your passport or ID, ensure your passport photo meets the latest biometric standards including neutral expression, correct head positioning, and proper lighting. Many applicants use professional passport photo services like VisaPics to ensure compliance with evolving biometric requirements.
What You Need to Know About These ID Card Changes
The ID card requirement updates for 2025 represent a fundamental shift toward digital identification while maintaining traditional security standards through REAL ID enforcement. With the May 7, 2025 deadline approaching, travelers should verify their identification compliance now to avoid last-minute complications. Whether you choose REAL ID, a passport, or Apple Digital ID, having acceptable identification is non-negotiable for domestic air travel.
For international travelers, these changes also highlight the importance of maintaining current passports with compliant photos. As biometric standards evolve alongside digital ID implementation, ensuring your passport photo meets requirements becomes increasingly critical. If you're planning to renew your passport or need a compliant photo for visa applications, verify your photo meets the latest specifications to avoid delays in processing and travel disruptions.