At security checkpoints, the days of fumbling for your driver's license are gradually coming to an end.
Arizona and Maryland were the first two states where Apple formally introduced digital state IDs in the iPhone Wallet app.
The digital juggernaut has since moved to make this technology available in two other states (Colorado and Georgia) as part of what appears to be a nationwide deployment. Below, we'll outline the specifics.
Installing a digital ID on your iPhone
Open the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap the "+" button in the top right corner to add a digital ID. The setup and verification process can then be finished by selecting "Driver's License or State ID" and then adhering to the on-screen instructions.
You'll probably be required to make a series of facial and head motions during the setup procedure to verify your identification. Each state is in charge of the verification process.
A digital ID will be generated and saved on your iPhone once the state has approved your submission. For convenient access, while you're out and about, you may also add the ID to your Apple Watch.
It should be noted that to add a digital ID to your device, you must have an iPhone 8 or later (running iOS 15.4 or later) or an Apple Watch Series 4 or later (running WatchOS 8.4 or later).
During the setup procedure, Apple won't receive any of your personal information, and for further protection, you won't even be able to screenshot your digital ID.
Using your digital ID at TSA checkpoints
You can use your iPhone to present your state ID at TSA checkpoints that accept it once it has been saved there. Here's how it functions.
When you get to the front of the security line, you will be requested to tap your iPhone close to the identity scanner. Your iPhone will then ask you to complete a Touch ID or Face ID scan and confirm that you are okay with the TSA having access to your identifying information.
The identification reader will snap your image when you authenticate with your iPhone to make sure it matches the one on your ID. After that, you will leave.
The TSA agent won't ever ask you to show them your device; all processing is done digitally and without touching you.
Keep in mind that the TSA requires all visitors to the country to maintain physical possession of a driver's license, identification card, or other recognized form of identification (and to have it on hand at all times) when transiting through an airport. The TSA officer may request a physical ID to finish the verification process.
State and TSA support
In four states, Apple's new digital ID is already available:
• Arizona (as of 23 March 2022).
• Maryland (as of May 25, 2022).
• Colorado (as of November 9, 2022).
• Georgia (as of May 18, 2023).
Apple's Digital ID can be used at a few TSA security checkpoints at the following airports. The TSA will install appropriate identification verification devices at airports across the country as additional states begin adopting digital IDs, the agency stated in a statement.
To make the technology available, Apple is aggressively collaborating with other jurisdictions. In the upcoming weeks and months, the following states and territories will offer digital ID, according to the company:
• Connecticut.
• Hawaii.
• Iowa.
• Kentucky.
• Mississippi.
• Ohio.
• Oklahoma.
• Puerto Rico.
• Utah.
We can only hope that this list will grow to include additional states.
In conclusion
The success and expansion of Apple's new digital IDs are wonderful to watch.
I've been curious to test out the new feature ever since the tech behemoth introduced it at its developer conference in June of 2021. The technology will soon be made available in additional states, even if the first rollout is just in four states.
Apple's digital IDs are undoubtedly more convenient than digging through your suitcase for your actual card, but they still require a few extra steps at the airport identity scanner. It takes time to validate your device and take a photo. (Clear members with access to digital IDs will probably still choose to use the specific Clear lane for enhanced security access.)
The iPhone Wallet app has received a new update that includes digital IDs. Apple has expanded support for digital vaccination cards during the last few years. Additionally, it collaborated with Hyatt to introduce electronic room keys that let guests check-in online.
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