Major ID Card Requirements Coming Into Effect in 2025
Starting May 7, 2025, millions of travelers and workers face significant ID card requirement changes in both the United States and United Kingdom. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration will begin full enforcement of REAL ID requirements for domestic air travel, while the UK government has announced mandatory digital ID cards for employment verification by the end of this parliament.
These changes represent the most significant updates to national identification requirements in over a decade. Currently, only 81 percent of U.S. travelers present REAL ID-compliant identification at TSA checkpoints, meaning nearly one in five passengers may face delays or denied boarding starting May 7, 2025.
U.S. REAL ID Requirements: What Changes on May 7, 2025
The Transportation Security Administration published its final rule on January 13, 2025, confirming that federal agencies will no longer accept non-compliant state IDs for official purposes.
- Airport Security Checkpoints: All passengers 18 and older must present REAL ID-compliant identification or acceptable alternatives like a U.S. passport to board domestic flights
- TSA PreCheck Members: Even expedited screening members must have REAL ID-compliant documents or alternative acceptable identification
- Federal Facility Access: REAL ID becomes mandatory for entering federal buildings, military bases, and nuclear facilities nationwide
- Visual Identification: REAL ID-compliant cards display a gold or black star in the upper right corner indicating they meet federal security standards
- No Extensions: TSA has confirmed no further deadline extensions after multiple postponements since the 2005 REAL ID Act passage
Passengers presenting non-compliant state IDs without acceptable alternatives can expect delays, additional screening, and potential denial of entry to TSA security checkpoints. Moreover, travelers may be directed to separate screening areas for identity verification procedures.
UK Digital ID Card System: Revolutionary Changes for Workers
The United Kingdom announced a groundbreaking digital identification system in September 2025 that will fundamentally change how residents prove their identity and right to work.
- Mandatory Work Authorization: Digital ID becomes compulsory for right to work checks by the end of this Parliament, affecting all UK employees and job seekers
- Free Digital Credentials: The government will provide free digital ID cards to all UK citizens and legal residents aged 16 and over
- Biometric Security: Digital IDs include name, date of birth, nationality or residency status, and photo with biometric security features
- Device-Based Storage: Credentials store directly on personal devices using encryption technology similar to banking apps and NHS App
- Not Police Enforceable: While mandatory for employment, it will not be a criminal offense to lack a digital ID, and police cannot demand it during stop-and-search procedures
- Age Verification: The system provides proof of age, identity, and residency status for government services and private sector transactions
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Changes
These identification requirement updates impact diverse populations across both countries. Understanding how these changes affect specific groups helps ensure timely compliance.
For U.S. Domestic Travelers
Anyone flying domestically must verify their driver's license displays a REAL ID star or prepare alternative identification like a passport. Travelers without compliant identification face screening delays, potential additional questioning, and possible denial of boarding. Furthermore, frequent business travelers should prioritize obtaining REAL ID immediately to avoid disrupting travel schedules.
For UK Workers and Employers
All UK employees and job seekers must register for digital ID to maintain employment eligibility by the parliamentary deadline. Employers will be legally required to verify digital ID for right to work checks, replacing physical document verification. Additionally, hiring managers should prepare systems to integrate digital ID verification processes into onboarding procedures.
For International Students and Visa Holders
International students studying in the U.S. should ensure passport photos meet current requirements and maintain valid documentation for domestic travel. UK visa holders and residents must register for digital ID to prove work authorization and access government services. However, those planning visa applications should verify their passport photos comply with VisaPics specifications before submission.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant - Step by Step
Obtaining REAL ID requires visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with specific documentation.
- Gather Identity Proof: Bring U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) to verify your identity
- Provide Social Security Documentation: Present original Social Security card, Form W-2, pay stub, or paycheck showing your full Social Security number
- Show Residency Proof: Bring two documents proving your current residential address, such as utility bills, bank statements, or mortgage documents dated within 90 days
- Visit DMV Office: Schedule an appointment at your state DMV or driver's licensing agency to avoid long wait times
- Complete Application and Pay Fee: Fill out the REAL ID application form and pay applicable fees, which vary by state (typically $20-$50)
- Take New Photo: Have your photo taken at the DMV meeting current identification photo standards with neutral expression and plain background
Important Dates and Timeline for ID Requirements
Mark these critical deadlines to ensure compliance with new identification requirements.
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement begins for all TSA airport security checkpoints nationwide with no further extensions
- May 7, 2025: Federal facilities including military bases and nuclear power plants begin accepting only REAL ID-compliant identification
- End of Parliament (Expected 2029): UK digital ID becomes mandatory for all right to work checks across the United Kingdom
- October 2025 - Present: UK digital ID rollout phase with voluntary registration available for early adopters
- Now Through May 2025: Grace period for U.S. travelers to obtain REAL ID before full enforcement begins
Frequently Asked Questions About ID Card Requirements
Can I Still Use My Regular Driver's License After May 7, 2025?
No, TSA will not accept non-REAL ID compliant driver's licenses for airport security checkpoints after May 7, 2025. However, you can use alternative acceptable identification such as a U.S. passport, passport card, Global Entry card, or military ID. Moreover, Enhanced Driver's Licenses from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont remain acceptable alternatives.
How Much Does REAL ID Cost and How Long Does It Take?
REAL ID costs vary by state, typically ranging from $20 to $50 for the application and replacement license. Processing times vary from same-day issuance to 2-3 weeks for mail delivery depending on your state's procedures. Additionally, many states offer online appointment scheduling to reduce DMV wait times to under 30 minutes.
Is the UK Digital ID Really Mandatory?
Yes, digital ID will be mandatory for right to work checks by the end of this Parliament, meaning all employees must have one to maintain employment. However, it will not be a criminal offense to not possess a digital ID, and police cannot demand to see it during routine stops. Furthermore, the digital ID remains free for all UK citizens and legal residents aged 16 and over.
What Happens If I Show Up at the Airport Without REAL ID?
TSA will direct you to a separate screening area for identity verification procedures, causing significant delays. You may undergo additional screening questions and document checks. Ultimately, TSA may deny you access to the security checkpoint if alternative acceptable identification cannot be verified, resulting in missed flights.
Can I Use My Passport Instead of Getting REAL ID?
Absolutely, U.S. passports and passport cards are fully acceptable alternatives to REAL ID for domestic air travel and federal facility access. In fact, passports often provide more versatility for international travel planning. However, ensure your passport photo meets current requirements if applying for renewal—VisaPics can help ensure your passport photo specifications are compliant.
What You Need to Know Before the Deadlines
The May 7, 2025 REAL ID enforcement deadline is firm with no further extensions planned, making immediate action essential for frequent travelers. Currently, 19% of U.S. travelers remain non-compliant, potentially creating significant airport delays in early May 2025. Additionally, UK workers should monitor government announcements regarding digital ID registration timelines to ensure employment compliance.
Don't wait until the last minute to verify your identification documents meet new requirements—DMV offices expect massive surges in applications as the deadline approaches. Whether obtaining REAL ID or preparing passport applications, ensure your passport photo meets requirements using professional services like VisaPics that guarantee compliance with official specifications. Furthermore, travelers should bookmark the TSA's acceptable identification list and verify their visa photo specifications before any international travel planning to avoid costly delays or application rejections.