Apple Launches Digital ID: A Game-Changing Way to Carry Your Passport and ID in Apple Wallet
Apple has officially introduced the Apple Digital ID, a revolutionary feature that brings passports and state IDs directly into the Apple Wallet app. The update, rolling out with iOS 26, allows users to securely store and present their identification through their iPhones or Apple Watches at supported TSA checkpoints, airports, and even select states across the U.S.
The Apple Digital ID simplifies how people identify themselves during travel, check-ins, and verifications. Instead of pulling out a physical ID or passport, users can now tap their iPhone or Apple Watch to confirm their identity within seconds.
A Secure, Seamless Way to Verify Identity
Apple designed the Digital ID feature with privacy and security at its core. Every digital ID is encrypted and stored locally on the device. The user controls when and how their information is shared. With Face ID and Touch ID, Apple ensures that only the rightful owner can access and present their ID.
The Apple Wallet Digital ID can be used in airports, making TSA screening faster and more secure. According to Apple, it currently works at selected TSA checkpoints, with more locations being added regularly.
Apple highlighted that its Digital ID feature complies with state and federal guidelines to maintain data privacy. When users present their ID, the system shares only the required information—nothing more.
Supported States and Expansion Plans
Currently, Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, and Georgia support the Apple Wallet Digital ID. Apple confirmed that it’s in talks with other states such as New York, California, Florida, Texas, and Ohio to expand compatibility soon.
Users in participating states can add their driver’s license or state ID to the Apple Wallet by scanning it within the app and verifying through their state’s DMV system.
This rollout marks a significant milestone in Apple’s digital transformation roadmap. The company plans to expand Apple Digital ID states to include most of the U.S. and eventually extend availability to Canada, the U.K., and Europe.
For travelers, this means easier movement through airports that support Apple Digital ID TSA checkpoints, reducing paperwork and improving identity verification speed.
Apple Wallet: More Than Just Payments
The Apple Wallet app has evolved from being a simple payment tool to becoming a central hub for identity, tickets, car keys, and digital access. With Apple Digital ID, users can now carry their passports, boarding passes, and driver’s licenses all in one place.
Apple says the Apple Wallet Digital ID will soon integrate with government and enterprise systems, allowing people to use it for hotel check-ins, car rentals, and even proof-of-age verifications.
This evolution positions Apple Wallet as not just an app—but an ecosystem that connects digital identity with convenience and security.
Apple Digital ID and TSA Partnership
The partnership between Apple and TSA is a major step toward frictionless travel. Travelers who use Apple Digital ID at airports can simply hold their device near an identity reader at TSA checkpoints. The process instantly verifies their ID with facial authentication.
No more fumbling for cards or waiting in lines to show physical identification. Apple’s system ensures faster boarding and fewer errors during security checks.
This feature is currently available at select airports, including Phoenix Sky Harbor, Denver International, and Baltimore/Washington International. More airports in New York, California, Florida, and Texas are expected to join soon.
How to Get Apple Digital ID
To set up Apple Digital ID, users must have an iPhone running iOS 26 or later. Open the Apple Wallet app, tap the “+” button, and select “Driver’s License or State ID.” The app guides users through scanning their ID and verifying their identity with the state DMV.
Once verified, the digital ID appears in Apple Wallet alongside credit cards, tickets, and passes. The setup process takes a few minutes and is fully handled through Apple’s secure environment.
For users in states that haven’t yet rolled out support, Apple says new regions will be added throughout 2025 and 2026 as local governments approve digital identity verification systems.
Beyond the United States: Global Expansion
Apple’s ambition for Digital ID goes beyond the U.S. market. Plans for Apple Digital ID in the UK, Canada, and other countries are already in early stages. The system will allow citizens to link their passports digitally, creating a unified and secure global identity ecosystem.
This could make international travel smoother than ever before. Passengers might eventually pass immigration and security without showing physical documents—just an Apple Wallet scan.
Apple’s Commitment to Privacy and Security
Apple has reiterated that user privacy remains its top priority. The company states that all Apple Digital ID login attempts, data verifications, and airport scans use end-to-end encryption. Apple cannot access or store users’ identity data.
No data is shared with third parties unless explicitly approved by the user. This transparent approach builds trust among users, especially in an era where data protection concerns dominate public discussion.
What States Support Apple Digital ID?
As of now, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, and Georgia fully support Apple Wallet Digital ID. States like New York, California, Florida, Texas, and Ohio are in progress.
The feature continues to roll out with local partnerships. Apple expects full nationwide support by 2026, alongside federal agency integration for passports and immigration checks.
The Future of Digital Identity
With Apple Digital ID, the company has moved one step closer to replacing physical wallets altogether. As more countries and organizations adopt digital identity systems, Apple stands at the center of this global shift.
This innovation could reshape how people travel, shop, and interact with public services. The convenience, speed, and privacy of Apple’s system may soon make traditional IDs a thing of the past.
FAQs
Apple Digital ID is a new feature in the Apple Wallet app that allows users to store and present their driver’s license or passport digitally for verification at TSA checkpoints and supported airports.
It uses secure encryption and Face ID to verify your identity. You can scan your physical ID, verify with your DMV, and present your digital ID at supported locations using your iPhone or Apple Watch.
Currently, states like Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, and Georgia support Apple Digital ID. Expansion is underway for New York, California, Florida, Texas, and Ohio.
Apple is working with authorities to extend Digital ID support to passports and travel documentation. Future updates aim to include the U.K., Canada, and more countries.
Update your iPhone to iOS 26 or later, open Apple Wallet, tap “+”, select “Driver’s License or State ID”, and follow the verification steps provided by your state DMV.
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