The holiday season is one of the busiest travel periods in the United States. Whether you are visiting family or taking a vacation, major travel rule changes are taking effect this year — and being unprepared could result in delays or denied boarding.
From REAL ID enforcement to new airline policies and expanded biometric screening at airports, here’s what travelers need to know before booking flights.
1. REAL ID Requirement Takes Effect — May 7, 2025
Starting May 7, 2025, the TSA will only accept REAL ID-compliant identification for domestic flights within the U.S.
If your ID is REAL ID-compliant, it will display a star in the top corner.
Accepted REAL ID Alternatives (for domestic flights)
Travelers without a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license may use:
- State REAL ID-compliant ID card
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Foreign government passport
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Employment Authorization Card (EAD, Form I-766)
- DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, etc.)
- U.S. Military ID or VA Veteran Health ID
Tip: If your license does not have a star, upgrade now to avoid airport issues next spring.
2. Major Airline Policy Changes for 2025–2026
Airlines are updating baggage rules, identification systems, and the boarding experience.
| Airline | Notable Change | What It Means |
| Southwest | Assigned seats begin Jan 27, 2026 | No more open-seating — seat selection will occur at booking |
| American Airlines | Baggage fee increases + holiday season limits | Expect higher luggage fees and stricter weight rules during peak travel |
| Delta Air Lines | Expansion of touchless facial-ID boarding | Eligible travelers can pass checkpoints without showing physical ID |
Tip: Always review airline baggage rules before traveling — costs and limits vary by season.
3. Customs & Immigration Updates for International Travelers
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) continues expanding biometric screening at airports.
What to expect
- Facial recognition scanning required for most non-U.S. citizens upon entry & exit
- Possible visa bond requirement (up to $15,000) for travelers from certain countries with high visa-overstay rates
- Fully refundable if traveler departs on time
Note: U.S. citizens may opt out of facial recognition when available, but may be asked to show passport manually.
Traveling With Minors? Bring a Notarized Consent Letter
If a child under 18 is traveling without both parents — including with one parent, relatives, or guardians — U.S. Customs & Border Protection strongly recommends a notarized Travel Consent Letter.
Why it matters
- Confirms parental authorization for the trip
- Helps prevent child travel disputes or custody concerns
- Reduces risk of travel delays at immigration
What the letter should include
- Minor’s information and travel dates
- Destination and flight details
- Parent/guardian contact information
- For credibility, the letter must be notarized.
Our Service: Travel Consent Letter Assistance
At NotaryProSupport.org, we offer:
- Help preparing a proper consent letter with required details
- Notary services to verify parent/guardian signatures
Fast, simple, and designed for travel peace of mind.
General TSA Reminders for Holiday Travel
- Liquid rule: 3.4 oz max containers, all in one quart-size bag
- Lithium batteries: Must stay in carry-on bags only
- Arrive early:
- Domestic flights: 2 hours before departure
- International flights: 3 hours before departure
Airports are busiest from Thanksgiving through New Year — plan ahead.
Avoid Last-Minute Travel Stress
Whether you need help:
- Upgrading to REAL ID
- Preparing a Child Travel Consent Letter
- Organizing travel documents
We are here to assist.
Contact us to prepare your travel documents and avoid airport delays.
Travel informed, confident, and prepared this holiday season.