REAL ID Enforcement Now in Effect for Air Travel
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began full enforcement of REAL ID requirements on May 7, 2025, marking the most significant change to U.S. identification requirements in two decades. All airline passengers aged 18 and older must now present REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable alternative at TSA security checkpoints nationwide. State-issued driver's licenses and ID cards that do not meet REAL ID security standards are no longer accepted for domestic air travel.
This enforcement follows the REAL ID Act of 2005, which Congress passed based on recommendations from the 9/11 Commission to establish minimum security standards for state-issued identification. The deadline has been extended multiple times since its original passage, but as of May 2025, the grace period has officially ended for millions of American travelers.
Key Changes to ID Card Requirements in 2025
Multiple countries have implemented stricter ID card and identification photo requirements throughout 2025, affecting travelers, workers, and residents worldwide. Here are the major updates:
- United States (May 7, 2025): TSA now requires REAL ID-compliant licenses or acceptable alternatives for all domestic flights; non-compliant IDs are rejected at security checkpoints
- United Kingdom (Announced September 2025): Mandatory digital ID cards for right-to-work checks by 2029; voluntary for other purposes but stored on smartphones via GOV.UK Wallet
- Germany (May 1, 2025): All passport and ID card applications require digitally transmitted photos only; printed photos no longer accepted at any citizens' office nationwide
- India (September 2025): Mandatory ICAO-compliant photos with strict 630 x 810 pixel specifications required at all embassies and consulates worldwide
- Global Standard (January 1, 2026): ISO/IEC 39794 biometric format implementation scheduled across all international border control systems
These changes follow over 300,000 U.S. passport application rejections in 2024 due to non-compliant photos. The stricter standards aim to improve security, prevent identity fraud, and standardize biometric identification across borders.
Who Is Affected by the New ID Card Requirements
The REAL ID enforcement and global ID card updates affect distinct groups differently. Understanding your category helps ensure compliance and avoid travel disruptions.
For Domestic Air Travelers in the United States
If you plan to fly domestically within the U.S., you must present a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card at TSA checkpoints. This requirement applies to all passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck members. Even frequent travelers who previously sailed through security may face additional screening or denial of boarding if presenting non-compliant identification.
For Workers in the United Kingdom
UK residents will be required to use digital ID cards for right-to-work checks by 2029 under Prime Minister Keir Starmer's "BritCard" initiative announced September 25, 2025. The digital ID will be stored on smartphones via the GOV.UK Wallet and include name, date of birth, nationality, residency status, and photo. While mandatory for employment verification, the government states people will not be required to carry or produce it in other situations.
For International Passport and Visa Applicants
Anyone applying for passports, visas, or national ID cards must now ensure their passport photos meet enhanced ICAO biometric standards. The U.S. implemented zero tolerance for digital editing, filters, or AI enhancements in October 2025, with automatic rejection for altered photos. Photos taken before October 2025 may still be rejected even if previously compliant, affecting first-time applicants, renewal applicants, and parents applying for children's passports.
How to Get a REAL ID-Compliant License - Step by Step
If your current driver's license or ID card is not REAL ID-compliant, follow these steps to obtain one before your next domestic flight:
- Check Your Current ID: Look for a star symbol in the upper right corner of your license; if present, you already have a REAL ID-compliant card
- Gather Required Documents: Collect proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), Social Security number, and two proofs of residency (utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements)
- Visit Your State DMV: Schedule an appointment at your local Department of Motor Vehicles office; most states require in-person visits for REAL ID applications
- Complete the Application: Fill out the REAL ID application form and submit all required documentation for verification by DMV staff
- Pay the Fee and Get Your Card: Pay the applicable fee (varies by state, typically $20-$40) and receive your REAL ID-compliant license, usually within 2-4 weeks by mail
Important Dates and Timeline for ID Card Requirements
Mark these critical dates to ensure compliance with new identification requirements across multiple countries and systems:
- May 7, 2025: TSA began full REAL ID enforcement at all U.S. airport security checkpoints nationwide
- September 2025: UK announced mandatory digital ID cards by 2029; India implemented mandatory ICAO-compliant photo standards
- October 2025: U.S. zero tolerance policy for edited passport photos went into effect with automatic rejections
- January 1, 2026: Global implementation of ISO/IEC 39794 biometric format across international border control systems
- 2029: UK digital ID cards become mandatory for right-to-work verification checks for all employees
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If I Don't Have a REAL ID at the Airport?
If you present a non-compliant state ID at TSA checkpoints without an acceptable alternative, you will be notified of your non-compliance and may be directed to a separate screening area. You may receive additional screening, but ultimately you will not be permitted to board your domestic flight. Acceptable alternatives include a valid U.S. passport, passport card, Global Entry card, SENTRI card, or active military ID.
Are Enhanced Driver's Licenses Accepted Instead of REAL ID?
Yes, Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) issued by Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are considered acceptable alternatives to REAL ID-compliant cards. These EDLs meet federal security standards and will be accepted for official REAL ID purposes, including boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities. All five states continue to issue EDLs as an alternative to standard REAL ID licenses.
Can I Still Use My Passport for Domestic Flights?
Absolutely. A valid U.S. passport or passport card remains an acceptable form of identification at TSA checkpoints and does not require you to obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver's license. In fact, passports are often the easiest solution for travelers who haven't yet upgraded their state ID. Just ensure your passport photo meets current requirements if you need to renew it soon.
What Makes a Photo ICAO-Compliant for ID Cards and Passports?
ICAO-compliant photos must meet strict biometric standards including neutral facial expression, eyes open and clearly visible, no glasses or headwear (except religious purposes), plain white or off-white background, and specific dimensions based on document type. Photos cannot be digitally edited, filtered, or AI-enhanced. Services like VisaPics can help ensure your passport photo meets all current ICAO requirements with AI-powered compliance checking before submission.
What You Need to Know About ID Card Requirements Moving Forward
The shift to stricter ID card requirements and enhanced biometric standards represents a global trend toward improved security and fraud prevention. Whether you're planning domestic air travel in the U.S., applying for employment in the UK, or renewing your passport, understanding these new requirements is essential to avoid delays, rejections, and additional costs.
If you're preparing for international travel or visa applications, ensure your passport photo meets all current requirements using professional services. VisaPics offers AI-powered photo compliance checking for over 952 document types across 172 countries, helping you avoid the frustration of rejected applications. Check our comprehensive visa photo specifications to ensure your documents are processed smoothly the first time.