REAL ID Enforcement Begins May 7, 2025
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) published its final rule on January 13, 2025, confirming that REAL ID enforcement will begin on May 7, 2025 for all domestic air travel. Every air traveler 18 years of age and older must present a REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license, identification card, or another acceptable form of ID to board commercial aircraft in the United States.
This enforcement deadline affects approximately 118 million U.S. travelers who currently lack compliant identification, as only 81% of travelers at TSA checkpoints present acceptable ID cards. However, TSA confirmed that travelers without REAL ID "will not be turned away" but will face additional screening and verification processes.
Key Changes to ID Card Requirements in 2025
Federal agencies are implementing stricter identification standards across multiple fronts, with enforcement beginning this year:
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID becomes mandatory for all domestic flights in the United States (TSA final rule published January 2025)
- November 12, 2025: Apple launched Digital ID in Apple Wallet for U.S. passport holders at TSA checkpoints nationwide
- December 31, 2025: EU citizens must have biometric ID cards meeting ICAO standards to enter the United Kingdom with settled status
- Ongoing through 2026: All 27 EU member states must provide digital identity wallets under eIDAS 2.0 regulations
- By 2029: United Kingdom will mandate digital ID cards (dubbed "Brit Card") for all residents and workers
All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and 5 U.S. territories are now REAL ID compliant and issuing cards with the distinctive star marking in the top corner. Additionally, Germany became the first major economy to completely ban printed passport photos for official documents starting May 1, 2025, requiring digital-only submissions for all passports and ID cards.
Who Is Affected By These ID Card Changes
The new identification requirements impact travelers, workers, and residents across multiple categories. Understanding which requirements apply to you is critical to avoid disruptions.
For Domestic Air Travelers
19% of current travelers (approximately 118 million Americans) lack REAL ID-compliant identification and will face additional screening starting May 7, 2025. TSA advises arriving at least three hours before flight time if you don't have compliant ID. You can still fly with additional verification, but expect significant delays during the screening process.
For International Travelers and Immigrants
U.S. passport holders can now use Apple's Digital ID at TSA checkpoints starting November 12, 2025. EU citizens with UK settled or pre-settled status must ensure their national identity cards have biometric chips and meet ICAO standards by December 31, 2025. Non-compliant cards will no longer be accepted for UK entry after this deadline.
For Workers and UK Residents
The United Kingdom announced mandatory digital ID cards for all workers by 2029, with implementation beginning in phases. This requirement will affect employers who must verify worker identification and all UK residents who will need digital credentials. Additionally, over 100 countries worldwide are implementing or developing national digital identity systems affecting billions of residents globally.
How to Get REAL ID - Step by Step
Obtaining a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card requires visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles with specific documentation:
- Gather Proof of Identity: Bring your U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Permanent Resident Card (green card)
- Provide Social Security Proof: Present your Social Security card, W-2 form, or recent pay stub showing your full Social Security number
- Show Two Proofs of Residency: Bring utility bills, bank statements, mortgage documents, or lease agreements showing your current address (dated within 60-90 days)
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Visit your state DMV website to book an appointment, as walk-in wait times can exceed 4 hours in high-demand states
- Complete Application and Pay Fee: Fill out the REAL ID application form and pay the processing fee (typically $30-$90 depending on your state)
Important Dates and Timeline for 2025-2029
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to ensure compliance with new ID card requirements:
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement begins nationwide - TSA checkpoints will require compliant identification or acceptable alternatives
- November 12, 2025: Apple Digital ID launched in Apple Wallet for iPhone and Apple Watch users at TSA security checkpoints
- December 31, 2025: EU national identity cards without biometric chips become invalid for UK entry (affects settled status holders)
- December 2026: All 27 EU member states must provide citizens with digital identity wallets under eIDAS 2.0 regulation
- 2029: United Kingdom implements mandatory digital ID cards ("Brit Card") for all residents and workers
Frequently Asked Questions About ID Card Requirements
What Happens If I Don't Have REAL ID on May 7, 2025?
You won't be turned away from the airport, but you'll face additional screening and verification. TSA recommends arriving at least 3 hours before your flight to allow time for the extended verification process. You can still fly with alternative acceptable identification like a valid passport, passport card, Global Entry card, or active military ID.
Can I Use My Passport Instead of REAL ID for Domestic Flights?
Yes, absolutely. A valid U.S. passport or passport card is an acceptable alternative to REAL ID and is accepted at all TSA checkpoints for domestic flights. Other alternatives include DHS Trusted Traveler cards (Global Entry, SENTRI), active duty military IDs, federally-recognized tribal IDs, and Transportation Worker Identification Credentials.
How Do I Know If My Driver's License Is REAL ID Compliant?
Look for a star marking in one of the top corners of your driver's license or state ID card. This star indicates your ID meets federal security standards. If you don't see a star, contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to apply for a compliant card before the May 7, 2025 deadline.
Do Children Need REAL ID to Fly Domestically?
No. The REAL ID requirement only applies to travelers 18 years of age and older. Children under 18 do not need to present identification when traveling with a companion within the United States. However, when traveling internationally, children of all ages must have proper documentation such as a passport.
What You Need to Know About Digital ID Cards
The global shift toward digital identification is accelerating rapidly, with over 100 countries implementing national digital ID systems affecting approximately 5 billion people worldwide. The United States joined this trend on November 12, 2025, when Apple launched Digital ID in Apple Wallet for passport holders.
If you're planning domestic or international travel, verify your identification meets current requirements well before your departure date. For international travel, ensure your passport photo meets requirements using professional services like VisaPics to avoid application rejections. With over 300,000 U.S. passport applications rejected in 2024 due to non-compliant photos, taking time to prepare proper documentation can save significant delays and expenses.
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