In some states of the United States, you can now add your driver’s license or ID card to your Apple Wallet. This can be scanned at TSA checkpoints and other authorized locations. It’s a new update in Apple devices that will make things more convenient for Apple users. Here’s how you can set it up.
From credit cards and car keys to event tickets and transit passes, Apple’s iPhone can now securely store all these physical items that you used to carry in your pocket or wallet. Recently, Apple introduced a feature in Apple Wallet that allows you to securely store your driving license or state ID, which is quite amazing. Residents of certain states can add their ID cards to their iPhone or Apple Watch and use them at specific locations and in certain situations instead of carrying a physical card.
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Many US states and territories offer digital IDs, but only a few are compatible with Apple Wallet. For example, the New York Mobile ID app works with TSA but does not support Apple Wallet. Currently, nine US states and Puerto Rico are part of a mobile ID program that is compatible with Apple Wallet.
Many US states and territories offer digital IDs, but only a few are compatible with Apple Wallet. For example, the New York Mobile ID app works with TSA but does not support Apple Wallet. Currently, 9 US states and Puerto Rico are part of a mobile ID program compatible with Apple Wallet.
In 2021, Connecticut, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Utah were added to the list of states supporting digital IDs in Apple Wallet. However, Connecticut and Kentucky have not yet launched anything. Utah has a separate app that is not available in Apple Wallet and costs $1.99 annually after the first six months. Utah shut down its Mobile ID app because it violated disability people’s rights laws. Now, it is working on a new system expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025.
In 2022, Mississippi was also expected to receive this feature, but nothing has happened yet. This summer, Florida shut down its mobile ID system and plans to introduce a new feature in 2025.
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How to Add the Driver’s License to Apple Wallet
If you also want to connect your driver’s license with your Apple Wallet, follow the steps below. Following these simple steps, you can connect your driver’s license to Apple Wallet.
- Open the Apple Wallet app on the iPhone.
- Tap on the plus sign in the top right corner, select “Driving License” or “State ID,” and choose your state.
- Scan your physical card, both the front and back of your driving license.
- After submitting the photos, you will be notified if further verification is needed, which will be done through facial recognition
The Face ID verification process involves scanning your face, just like when you set up Face ID on your iPhone. From my experience, when I added my California license, I had to hold my phone in front of my face and follow a few on-screen instructions. I was asked to tilt my head, raise it, and then close and open my eyes.
While performing the ID verification process, it might not be immediately obvious, but none of the images taken will be linked to your digital driving license. The picture captured will only be used for verification purposes and won’t appear on your ID. Once the process is completed, you’ll have to wait for the confirmation. There’s no status page, but you will receive a notification on your phone when your driving license is available in the app.
If your verification application is rejected, you can try again. The California Department of Motor Vehicles offers some practical tips that might make the verification process easier, such as having a clean background, ensuring proper lighting, and making sure your phone is not in low power mode.
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Current Practical Uses
The use of digital driving licenses in Apple Wallet is currently limited. Apple presents it as a quick and easy way to verify age, whether in an app or at TSA checkpoints. However, the actual usage will depend on the state. For example, in California, it can only be used at a few airports, such as LAX, and the DMV SF also advises that you should still carry your physical card. Digital IDs are accepted at a few airports, and for a full list, you can check TSA’s official site.