Traveling can be a hassle, especially when it comes to airport security. Apple is aiming to alleviate some of that stress with its new digital ID feature, now available in select states. You can seamlessly add your driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet on your iPhone or Apple Watch, allowing for a quick tap at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints.
Imagine a future where you can swipe effortlessly from your flight’s boarding pass to your digital ID right from your device. If you’re in one of the supported states, that future is already becoming a reality. Adding your ID to your iPhone simplifies the travel experience significantly. I had the chance to test this feature in California, and I was pleasantly surprised by how easy the setup process was.
To utilize this feature, you’ll need an iPhone 8 or newer and must ensure that your device is running the correct version of iOS. While some users may face issues depending on their state’s rollout, this small technological shift has the potential to make your travel day far more convenient.
Currently, you can mainly use digital IDs at TSA checkpoints for domestic flights, but future applications may broaden their reach further, like for nightlife or bar entry.
In this article, I’ll share my experience, the challenges I faced, and essential information for those who wish to add their driver’s license to Apple Wallet. I’ll also provide a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to do this.
Supported States for Digital IDs on iPhones
Currently, only a select few states support digital IDs in Apple Wallet. The implementation varies by state, with states like Louisiana, New York, Utah, and Virginia requiring separate apps for mobile driver’s licenses.
Here are the states and regions currently supporting digital IDs:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Iowa
- Maryland
- New Mexico
- Ohio
- Puerto Rico
While this number is promising, it’s important to note that it represents only about half of what the TSA currently accepts across various platforms.
iPhone Requirements for Adding Your Driver’s License to Apple Wallet
To add your driver’s license, you need to meet specific requirements:
- An iPhone 8 or later with the latest version of iOS
- Face or Touch ID must be enabled
- Two-factor authentication on your Apple account
- A license from a participating state
- Your device’s region must be set to the United States
It’s worth noting that I encountered a hiccup when I initially tried adding my ID using an iPhone 8 Plus.
My Experience Adding My ID to My iPhone
During my testing, I used an iPhone 16E. The process of adding my ID was straightforward. I scanned both the front and back of my ID, and then verified my identity with a quick live photo that took just a couple of seconds.
The next phase involved additional verification, which required me to follow prompts for facial movements like closing my eyes and smiling. This took about three minutes, or longer for me since I got distracted taking notes.
Once everything was submitted, I was pleasantly surprised to receive a notification within ten minutes that my ID was ready. That’s a seamless experience!
What About Older iPhones?
Not all iPhones are compatible. Initially, I tried adding my ID with an iPhone 8 Plus, but the setup page did not list California as an option. It turns out that for California, Apple’s digital ID feature requires an iPhone XS or later, along with updated software.
If you’re using an older model, you won’t be able to add your digital ID until you upgrade. This limitation can catch users off guard, especially if they’re unaware of the specific requirements for their state.
How to Add Your ID or Driver’s License to Apple Wallet
If you’re in one of the states that support digital IDs, adding yours is simple:
- Open Apple Wallet.
- Tap the Add button.
- Choose Driver’s License or ID and select your location.
- If prompted, decide whether to add your ID to only your iPhone or both your iPhone and Apple Watch.
- Follow the steps to scan your ID.
Be sure to scan your ID in a well-lit area to ensure the image is clear and focused. Once scanned, you’ll confirm your identity with a selfie, which may require some facial movements.
After all steps are complete, you’ll need to use Touch or Face ID to finalize the process, which ties your biometric data to the digital ID for secure usage.
Transferring Your Digital ID to Another iPhone
When upgrading your iPhone, you can easily transfer your digital ID:
- During the initial setup, tap Wallet.
- Select your ID.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Confirm that you want to move your driver’s license or ID to the new device.
What’s Next?
Your digital ID isn’t just a simple image stored on your device. To view essential information, tap on your ID card in Apple Wallet, and then select the relevant information.
It’s important to note that TSA checkpoints using digital IDs will require specific scanners, meaning the experience might not always be quicker than showing a physical ID.
Digital ID technology is still evolving, and while it’s convenient, its limited applications currently mean we’re still a while away from fully ditching physical IDs.
Cleaning Up Before Selling or Trading Your iPhone
When parting with your iPhone, remember to remove your digital ID for security reasons:
- Open Apple Wallet and select your ID.
- Tap the “i” button at the top-right.
- Select Remove State ID.
- Confirm your choice when prompted.
Future Features: Digital Passports and More
Apple plans to introduce digital passports with iOS 26, enabling iPhone users to scan their passports for easier identity verification at TSA checkpoints. While it won’t replace your physical passport, it will offer added convenience for domestic travel.
The upcoming feature titled “Verify with Wallet” will simplify age verification using your digital ID for activities like alcohol delivery services. Supported by several popular apps, this could reshape how you prove your identity in various situations.