Apple’s TSA-Approved Digital ID is now available in 5 states and coming to more states soon
The days of struggling to find a driver’s license at a security checkpoint are coming to an end.
Apple releasing already Digital state ID in the iPhone Wallet app in 2022, starting with support for Arizona and Maryland.
Since then, the tech giant has worked to roll out the technology in three more states (Colorado in 2022, Georgia in 2023, and Ohio in 2024) as part of a nationwide rollout. We’ll break it down in more detail below.
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Add a Digital ID to Your iPhone
To add a digital ID to your iPhone, open the Wallet app and tap the “+” button in the upper-right corner. From there, you can select “Driver’s License or State ID” and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup and verification process.
Each state is responsible for the verification process, and you’ll likely have to make a series of facial and head movements during setup to confirm your identity.
Once the state approves your application, a digital ID will be created and stored on your iPhone. You can also add the ID to your Apple Watch for easy access on the go.
Note that you’ll need an iPhone 8 or later (running iOS 16.5 or later) or an Apple Watch Series 4 or later (running WatchOS 9.5 or later) to add a digital ID to your device.
Your personal information won’t be shared with Apple during setup, and for added privacy, you won’t even be able to take screenshots of your digital ID.
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Use your digital ID at TSA checkpoints
Once your state ID is stored on your iPhone, you can present it at TSA-supported checkpoints nationwide. (You can find a map of supported inspection lanes on Dedicated TSA website.) It works like this.
When you get to the security line, you’ll be asked to tap your iPhone near the identity reader. Your iPhone will then prompt you to perform a Touch ID or Face ID scan and confirm whether you’re comfortable sharing your identity information with TSA.
After authenticating on your iPhone, the ID reader will take a photo of you to confirm that it matches the photo on your ID. Then you can go.
You’ll never need to show or hand over your device to a TSA agent — everything is handled digitally and touchless.
Note that TSA says all passengers must continue to carry their physical driver’s license, ID card, or other acceptable form of identification (and have it on hand) when traveling through the airport. TSA officers may request physical identification to complete verification.
State and TSA Support
Apple’s new digital ID is now available in five states:
- Arizona (as of March 23, 2022)
- Maryland (as of May 25, 2022)
- Colorado (as of November 9, 2022)
- Georgia (as of May 18, 2023)
- Ohio (as of July 31, 2024)
Some TSA security checkpoints at multiple airports nationwide are equipped to accept Apple’s digital ID. As more states begin allowing the use of digital ID, TSA will add compatible identity verification machines at more airports, the agency said. recently said in a statement.
Apple is actively working with other states to roll out the technology. The company has confirmed that the following states and territories will offer digital ID in the coming weeks and months:
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- State of Iowa
- State of Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- Puerto Rico
- State of Utah
Hopefully this list will expand to include more states.
Last line
It’s great to see Apple’s new digital ID evolving and now starting to expand.
The tech giant has revealed new capabilities in developer conference june 2021and I’ve been eager to check it out ever since. While the launch is limited to five states so far, the technology will soon be rolled out to other states.
Apple’s digital ID is certainly more convenient than digging through your bag for a physical card, but it still requires a few steps at an airport card reader. You have to authenticate your device and take a photo, which takes time. (Delete member Those with access to a digital ID may still want to use the dedicated Clear lane for priority security access.)
Digital ID is just the latest enhancement to the iPhone Wallet app. Over the past few years, Apple has partnered with Hyatt Hotel ARRIVE The first digital room key allows you to skip the check-in counter.
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