ID Card Requirements Update: What Changed in 2025
ID card requirements across the United States have undergone the most significant changes in two decades. REAL ID enforcement began on May 7, 2025, while November brought new digital ID options and a controversial $18 fee proposal from TSA.
These changes affect every American who flies domestically, visits federal facilities, or needs government-issued identification. Whether you're planning holiday travel or simply need to renew your license, understanding these new requirements is essential.
Key ID Card Requirement Changes in 2025
Here are the most important updates you need to know:
- REAL ID Enforcement Active: Since May 7, 2025, TSA requires REAL ID-compliant identification for all domestic flights and federal facility access
- Apple Digital ID Launch: On November 12, 2025, Apple launched Digital ID in Apple Wallet, allowing passport holders to create digital identification
- Virginia Mobile ID: Virginia became the first state to offer a fully digital driver's license accepted by DMV, law enforcement, and TSA
- Illinois Digital ID: Illinois launched mobile ID capabilities on November 18, 2025, adding to states with Apple Wallet integration
- TSA $18 Fee Proposal: TSA proposed charging $18 for travelers without compliant IDs to use alternative verification
- 94% Compliance Rate: Approximately 94% of Americans now have REAL ID-compliant identification, up from 81% in May 2025
The REAL ID star symbol on the top right corner of your driver's license confirms compliance. If your license lacks this marking, you'll need an alternative like a passport or passport card for domestic air travel.
Who Is Affected by New ID Requirements
These ID card requirement changes impact different groups in specific ways.
For Domestic Air Travelers
All passengers 18 and older must present REAL ID-compliant identification or acceptable alternatives at TSA checkpoints. Standard driver's licenses without the REAL ID star are no longer accepted for boarding domestic flights.
For iPhone and Apple Watch Users
Users with iPhone 11 or later can now create a Digital ID using their U.S. passport. This digital identification is accepted at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports nationwide, providing a convenient backup to physical documents.
For Virginia and Illinois Residents
Residents in these states can download free mobile ID apps to carry digital versions of their driver's licenses. Virginia Mobile ID works at DMVs, select ABC stores, with state police, and at TSA checkpoints. Illinois mobile ID integrates directly with Apple Wallet.
For Travelers Without Compliant ID
Under TSA's new proposal, travelers lacking REAL ID can pay $18 for alternative identity verification. This fee provides access for 10 days and is non-refundable, even if verification fails.
How to Get Your REAL ID - Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license:
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security card, and two proofs of current address
- Visit Your State DMV Website: Check your state's specific requirements as some states require additional documentation
- Schedule an Appointment: Many DMVs require or recommend appointments for REAL ID applications
- Bring Original Documents: Photocopies are not accepted—bring original documents or certified copies
- Pay the Fee: REAL ID fees vary by state, typically ranging from $25-$45
- Receive Your Card: Most states mail REAL ID cards within 2-4 weeks after approval
How to Set Up Digital ID on iPhone
Apple's Digital ID offers a convenient digital backup for your identification:
- Update Your iPhone: Ensure you have iOS 26.1 or later on iPhone 11 or newer
- Open Apple Wallet: Tap the plus (+) button to add a new card
- Select Digital ID: Choose the Digital ID option from available cards
- Scan Your Passport: Use your camera to scan the photo page of your valid U.S. passport
- Read the Chip: Hold your phone against the back of your passport to read the embedded chip
- Complete Face Verification: Take a selfie and complete facial movement prompts
- Wait for Approval: Your Digital ID will be added to Wallet after verification
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates for ID card requirements:
- May 7, 2025: REAL ID enforcement began at all TSA checkpoints nationwide
- November 12, 2025: Apple Digital ID and Virginia Mobile ID launched simultaneously
- November 18, 2025: Illinois launched mobile ID with Apple Wallet integration
- November 20, 2025: TSA published proposed $18 alternative verification fee
- December 31, 2025: EU citizens must have biometric ID cards for UK entry
- 2026 (Expected): Illinois mobile ID expansion to Android devices via Google and Samsung Wallets
Acceptable Alternatives to REAL ID
If you don't have a REAL ID, these documents are accepted at TSA checkpoints:
- U.S. Passport: Valid passport book accepted for all domestic and international travel
- U.S. Passport Card: Accepted for domestic flights and federal facilities
- Military ID: Active duty, reserve, and dependent military identification cards
- Global Entry Card: Trusted Traveler Program cards with photo
- Enhanced Driver's License: EDLs from Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont
- Digital ID: Apple Digital ID and state mobile IDs at participating airports
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Replace My Current Driver's License?
Not immediately for driving purposes. Your current license remains valid for operating a vehicle. However, you'll need a REAL ID or acceptable alternative for domestic flights and federal facility access. Consider upgrading at your next renewal.
Can I Use Digital ID Instead of Physical ID at Airports?
Yes, at participating locations. Apple Digital ID and state mobile IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints in over 250 U.S. airports. However, you should still carry physical identification as backup since not all situations accept digital IDs.
What Happens If I Arrive at the Airport Without Proper ID?
TSA's new alternative verification program allows you to pay an $18 fee for identity verification through biometric kiosks. This provides 10-day access but doesn't guarantee entry—TSA must successfully verify your identity. The fee is non-refundable.
Is Digital ID Safe and Private?
Yes, digital IDs use encryption and allow selective data sharing. Apple states it cannot see when or where you use your Digital ID. Virginia's Mobile ID lets you share only necessary information—for example, confirming you're over 21 without revealing your full address.
Which States Offer Mobile ID in Apple Wallet?
As of November 2025, these states support driver's license or state ID in Apple Wallet: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Virginia, and West Virginia.
What You Need to Know
The ID card requirements update of 2025 represents the biggest change to American identification since the REAL ID Act passed in 2005. With enforcement now active, approximately 56 million Americans still need to upgrade their identification. Digital options provide convenient alternatives, but physical REAL ID remains the most universally accepted form of identification.
Before your next trip, verify your ID meets current requirements. If you need to apply for a passport or renew your driver's license, ensure your passport photo meets all official specifications. VisaPics can help you create compliant photos for passports, visas, and other identification documents accepted at government offices worldwide.