Major ID Card Requirements Update: TSA Announces $45 Fee for Non-Compliant Travelers
ID card requirements update for December 2025 brings significant changes affecting millions of travelers. The Transportation Security Administration announced on December 1, 2025, that air travelers without REAL ID will face a $45 non-refundable fee beginning February 1, 2026.
This marks the latest phase of REAL ID enforcement, which officially began on May 7, 2025. According to the Department of Homeland Security, approximately 56 million Americans still lack REAL ID-compliant identification, making this update critical for domestic air travel.
Key ID Card Requirements Changes for December 2025
Several major developments are reshaping identification requirements across the United States and internationally.
- TSA $45 Fee: Non-refundable fee for travelers without acceptable ID starts February 1, 2026
- REAL ID Enforcement: Already active since May 7, 2025—standard licenses without the star symbol no longer accepted
- Digital ID Expansion: Apple Digital ID now available in 14 states, accepted at 250+ airports
- EU Biometric Deadline: Non-biometric ID cards expire for UK travel on December 31, 2025
- 94% Compliance Rate: DHS reports most travelers already have acceptable identification
The TSA originally proposed an $18 fee but increased it after determining operational and technology costs were higher than anticipated. This fee applies only when travelers lack both REAL ID and any acceptable alternative identification.
Who Is Affected by These ID Card Requirements Updates
These changes impact different groups of travelers in specific ways. Understanding your category helps you prepare appropriately.
For Domestic Air Travelers
If your driver's license lacks the star symbol (★) in the upper corner, you'll need to upgrade to REAL ID or use an alternative. Without compliant ID after February 1, 2026, expect to pay $45 and wait 10-30 minutes for identity verification through TSA's Confirm.ID process.
For EU/EEA Citizens Traveling to the UK
Citizens with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme can use non-biometric ID cards until December 31, 2025. After this deadline, only ICAO-compliant biometric ID cards will be accepted indefinitely. Check your card for the biometric chip symbol—a small rectangle with a circle inside.
For Digital ID Users
Travelers in participating states can now use Apple Wallet digital IDs at TSA checkpoints. However, digital IDs cannot replace physical passports for international travel or border crossings. Always carry your physical REAL ID or passport as backup when traveling.
How to Get REAL ID Compliant—Step by Step
Follow these steps to obtain your REAL ID-compliant identification before the February deadline.
- Check Current ID: Look for the star symbol (★) on your driver's license—if present, you're already compliant
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare proof of identity (U.S. birth certificate, passport, or Permanent Resident Card), Social Security number documentation, and two proofs of residential address
- Schedule DMV Appointment: Visit your state's DMV website to book an appointment—walk-ins may face longer wait times
- Apply In Person: REAL ID cannot be obtained online; you must visit the DMV with original documents
- Allow Processing Time: Physical cards may take up to 3 weeks to arrive—TSA does not accept temporary paper cards
Important Dates and Timeline for ID Card Requirements
Mark these critical deadlines on your calendar to stay compliant with new identification requirements.
- May 7, 2025 (Already Passed): REAL ID enforcement began—non-compliant licenses no longer accepted at TSA
- November 12, 2025: Apple Digital ID launched for U.S. passport holders nationwide
- December 31, 2025: EU/EEA non-biometric ID cards expire for UK travel with settled status
- February 1, 2026: TSA's $45 fee begins for travelers without acceptable identification
- 2029: UK's mandatory digital ID scheme ("BritCard") planned for implementation
Frequently Asked Questions About ID Card Requirements
What happens if I forget my ID at the airport?
Starting February 1, 2026, you can pay $45 through TSA's Confirm.ID system for a 10-day travel period. Payment can be made online before arriving or at the airport. However, paying the fee doesn't guarantee verification—travelers whose identities cannot be confirmed may be turned away.
Can I use my passport instead of REAL ID?
Yes, U.S. passports, passport cards, military IDs, Global Entry cards, and other trusted traveler program cards remain acceptable alternatives. If you already have a valid passport, you don't need to obtain a REAL ID specifically for domestic air travel.
Which states support digital driver's licenses in Apple Wallet?
As of December 2025, 14 states support mobile IDs: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Puerto Rico, and West Virginia. Arkansas and Virginia have committed to future support.
Do I need REAL ID for international travel?
No, REAL ID is only for domestic purposes. International travel requires a valid passport. REAL ID cannot be used for border crossings into Canada, Mexico, or other countries. Ensure your passport photo meets requirements when applying for or renewing your passport.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line on ID Card Requirements
The December 2025 ID card requirements update introduces significant changes that affect millions of travelers. With TSA's $45 fee starting February 1, 2026, and EU biometric requirements taking effect on December 31, 2025, now is the time to verify your identification status and take action.
Whether you need to upgrade to REAL ID, check your EU national ID card for biometric compliance, or explore digital ID options, don't wait until the last minute. Visit your local DMV to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, and ensure your passport photos meet official specifications if you're applying for alternative identification. VisaPics can help you prepare compliant photos for all your identification document needs.