With the evolution of the iPhone, Apple continues to transform how we handle identification. Currently, users can add their driver’s licenses and IDs to Apple Wallet, streamlining payments, transit access, and even security checks at the airport.
This significant feature is rolling out in select states, ushering in a future where your iPhone could be your go-to for proving your identity in various situationsâ€â€right now, it’s focused on TSA checkpoints, where quick access to your ID can make travels smoother.
As many states still work on implementing digital IDs, let’s delve into the current landscape of supported states, the steps to add your ID to Apple Wallet, and what exciting features to expect in the upcoming iOS 26 update.
What States Currently Support Digital ID in Apple Wallet?
As of now, only a select few states offer support for digital IDs in Apple Wallet. States such as Louisiana, New York, Utah, and Virginia do allow mobile driver’s licenses but utilize separate apps for authentication.
The states enabled for digital IDs in Apple Wallet are:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Iowa
- Maryland
- New Mexico
- Ohio
- Puerto Rico
It’s worth noting that while some states were initially expected to join the digital ID initiative, they still have yet to implement the system fully.
How to Add Your ID or Driver’s License to Apple Wallet
If you’re in one of the approved states, adding your driver’s license to Apple Wallet is a straightforward process. After adding the ID, you’ll go through a quick identity verification step, which might take a little longer but is easy to follow.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Open Apple Wallet
- Tap the Add button
- Select Driver’s License or ID and choose your state
- If desired, opt to add the ID to both your iPhone and Apple Watch
- Follow the instructions to scan your ID
Ensure you’re in good lighting and that the photo is clear. After scanning, you’ll be asked to take a selfie for identity confirmation. This process includes following specific facial movements as prompted.
To help make the verification smoother, Apple recommends:
- Positioning yourself against a plain background
- Being well-lit, preferably indoors
- Removing sunglasses, masks, or hats
- Keeping your iPhone steady
After finishing up, confirm your details using Touch or Face ID, ensuring that your digital ID is securely bound to you alone.
iOS 26 Will Allow You to Create a Digital Passport in Apple Wallet
Looking ahead, iOS 26 is introducing a digital passport feature that allows users to scan their passports and store them in Apple Wallet. Although this improvement won’t fully replace physical passports, it will facilitate quicker identity verification at over 250 TSA checkpoints.
During Apple’s WWDC keynote, it was mentioned that this digital passport could also be utilized in applications and in-person settings; however, specifics are yet to be detailed.
Verify with Wallet Will Make Proving Your Age Easier
This fall, another exciting feature, Verify with Wallet, aims to simplify age verification for deliveries like alcohol. Instead of showing your ID during delivery, your stored digital ID can authenticate your age seamlessly.
This feature is set to be supported by services such as Chime, Turo, Uber Eats, and U.S. Bank, enhancing user convenience and security.