Highlights:
- Digital ID allows users to create an ID in Apple Wallet using their U.S. passport
- The feature launches in beta at over 250 TSA checkpoints across the U.S.
- Apple promises strong privacy and security controls, with no data visibility for the company
A new step in digital identity
Apple has launched Digital ID, a new way for users to create and use an ID directly from Apple Wallet. The feature lets U.S. passport holders generate a secure digital version of their identity that can be presented using an iPhone or Apple Watch.
Initially, Digital ID will roll out in beta at more than 250 TSA checkpoints across the U.S., allowing travelers to verify their identity during domestic flights. The company says more use cases will be added later.
“With the launch of Digital ID, we’re excited to expand the ways users can store and present their identity all with the security and privacy built into iPhone and Apple Watch,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet.
How to set up Digital ID
Users can create their Digital ID by opening the Wallet app, tapping the Add (+) button, and selecting Driver’s License or ID Cards, followed by Digital ID.
The process includes:
- Scanning the photo page of their passport
- Reading the embedded chip to verify authenticity
- Taking a selfie and completing a series of facial movements for identity verification
Once verified, the Digital ID is stored securely in Wallet.
How to use Digital ID
To present their ID, users simply double-click the side or Home button, select Digital ID, and hold their device near an identity reader. They can then review the specific data requested and authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID before sharing.
In the coming months, Apple plans to expand Digital ID usage to select businesses and apps for age and identity verification.
Privacy and security features
Apple emphasizes that Digital ID is built with the same security architecture as other IDs in Wallet. The data is encrypted and stored on the device, not on Apple’s servers.
The company says it cannot see when, where, or how users present their ID. Only necessary information for a transaction is shared, and users must explicitly authorize any data transfer with biometric authentication.
Expanding beyond state IDs
Digital ID builds on Apple’s existing capability to add driver’s licenses and state IDs to Wallet, currently available in 12 states and Puerto Rico. In recent months, the feature expanded to Montana, North Dakota, and West Virginia, and internationally to Japan, where users can add their My Number Card.
With Digital ID, Apple aims to make identification more secure, private, and accessible even for those without a REAL ID-compliant license.
