ID Card Requirements Update: Major Changes in November 2025
ID card requirements have undergone significant changes in November 2025, with the U.S. REAL ID enforcement now fully active, Apple's Digital ID launching for passport holders, and the European Union advancing its digital identity wallet program. These updates affect millions of travelers and citizens worldwide.
Whether you're planning domestic air travel, need to access federal facilities, or want to embrace digital identification technology, understanding these new ID card requirements is essential for seamless travel and compliance.
Key ID Card Requirement Changes in November 2025
Several major updates have transformed identification standards across multiple countries and platforms.
- U.S. REAL ID Enforcement: As of May 7, 2025, REAL ID-compliant licenses are now required for domestic flights and federal facility access—non-compliant IDs are no longer accepted
- Apple Digital ID Launch: On November 12, 2025, Apple introduced Digital ID in Wallet, allowing U.S. passport holders to store identification on iPhone and Apple Watch for TSA checkpoints
- EU Digital Identity Expansion: 83 million EU digital ID wallets projected by end of 2025, with France and Nordic countries leading adoption
- Biometric Requirements: Some states now require fingerprint scans or facial recognition when issuing or renewing driver's licenses
- State ID Availability: Driver's licenses and state IDs are now available in Apple Wallet in 12 states plus Puerto Rico
These changes represent a fundamental shift toward digital and standardized identification. However, physical IDs remain valid and necessary for many purposes, including international travel.
Who Is Affected by New ID Card Requirements
The November 2025 ID card updates impact different groups in specific ways. Understanding your category helps ensure proper preparation.
For U.S. Domestic Travelers
If your driver's license lacks the REAL ID star marking (★), you cannot use it for domestic flights or federal building access. You'll need either a REAL ID-compliant license or an alternative such as a valid U.S. passport. Currently, 81% of U.S. travelers already have compliant identification.
For iPhone and Apple Watch Users
U.S. passport holders with iPhone 11 or later (iOS 26.1+) or Apple Watch Series 6 or later (watchOS 26.1+) can now create a Digital ID. This provides an alternative for those without REAL ID-compliant licenses, though it's currently limited to TSA checkpoints at over 250 airports.
For European Union Citizens
The EU Digital Identity Wallet rollout continues, with full government implementation required by November/December 2026. Early adopters in France, Italy, and Nordic countries can already access digital wallet services. By 2027, businesses must accept digital wallet identification for customer verification.
How to Get a REAL ID - Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain your REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state identification card.
- Gather Required Documents: Full legal name documentation (birth certificate or passport), Social Security number proof, and two documents showing your current address (utility bills, bank statements)
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Visit your state's DMV website to book an in-person appointment—many states require appointments for REAL ID applications
- Complete Application: Fill out the REAL ID application form and indicate you want the REAL ID-compliant option
- Visit DMV in Person: Bring all original documents (no copies) to your appointment for verification and photo capture
- Pay Applicable Fees: Fees vary by state—typically $25-$65. Your new card with the star marking will arrive by mail within 2-4 weeks
How to Set Up Apple Digital ID
Creating your Digital ID in Apple Wallet requires a valid U.S. passport and compatible device.
- Update Your Device: Ensure your iPhone has iOS 26.1 or later, or your Apple Watch has watchOS 26.1 or later
- Open Apple Wallet: Tap the "+" button and select "Digital ID" from the available options
- Scan Your Passport: Take a photo of your passport's information page, then use your iPhone to read the embedded chip on the back cover
- Complete Verification: Take a selfie and perform facial movements to confirm your identity
- Activate at TSA: Your Digital ID is now ready for use at participating TSA checkpoints—look for the Apple Wallet symbol at security lanes
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical deadlines for ID card requirement changes.
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement began—non-compliant IDs no longer accepted for domestic flights
- November 12, 2025: Apple Digital ID launched for U.S. passport holders in Wallet
- End of 2025: 83 million EU digital ID wallets projected to be in circulation
- November/December 2026: All EU governments must offer certified digital identity wallet options
- December 2027: EU businesses must accept digital wallet for customer identification
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don't have a REAL ID for my flight?
Without a REAL ID-compliant license, you must present an alternative form of federally accepted identification such as a valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or Enhanced Driver's License. TSA will not accept standard driver's licenses without the star marking for domestic air travel.
Can Apple Digital ID replace my physical passport for international travel?
No. Apple Digital ID is not a replacement for your physical passport and cannot be used for international travel or border crossings. It currently only works at TSA checkpoints for domestic travel identity verification. Always carry your physical passport for international trips.
Which states offer driver's licenses in Apple Wallet?
As of November 2025, 12 states plus Puerto Rico offer driver's licenses or state IDs in Apple Wallet. Montana, North Dakota, and West Virginia were added in the past six months. Check Apple's website for the current list of participating states.
Are REAL ID requirements the same for all states?
Yes, all 50 states, Washington D.C., and U.S. territories are REAL ID compliant and issuing compliant licenses. However, the application process and fees vary by state. Contact your local DMV for specific requirements and costs in your area.
What You Need to Know About ID Card Requirements
The November 2025 ID card requirements updates mark a significant transition toward standardized and digital identification. U.S. travelers must ensure REAL ID compliance for domestic flights, while digital alternatives like Apple Digital ID provide new options for tech-savvy users. EU citizens should prepare for the upcoming digital wallet mandates.
Before traveling, verify your ID meets current requirements and ensure your passport photo meets specifications if you need to obtain or renew identification documents. For those applying for new IDs, remember that proper visa photo requirements and document photos are essential for successful applications. Stay informed about these evolving standards to avoid travel disruptions and maintain access to federal facilities.
--- Sources: - [TSA REAL ID](https://www.tsa.gov/real-id) - [Apple Digital ID Newsroom](https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/11/apple-introduces-digital-id-a-new-way-to-create-and-present-an-id-in-apple-wallet/) - [TechCrunch - Apple Digital ID Launch](https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/12/apple-launches-digital-id-a-way-to-carry-your-passport-on-your-phone-for-use-at-tsa-checkpoints/) - [USAGov - REAL ID](https://www.usa.gov/real-id) - [European Commission - Digital Identity](https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/europe-fit-digital-age/european-digital-identity_en)