Apple launches Digital ID, a way to carry your passport on your phone for use at TSA checkpoints

Apple has taken another significant step toward making the iPhone an actual digital wallet.
Starting this week, Apple Watch and iPhone users in the United States can now store a digital copy of their U.S. passport in Apple Wallet, allowing them to use it at TSA checkpoints across more than 250 U.S. airports when travelling domestically.

The feature, known as Digital ID, was first announced with iOS 26 and adds passports to the growing list of supported government IDs in Apple Wallet. Apple says the rollout now includes 12 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, with additional states expected soon.

How Apple's Digital ID Works

With Digital ID in Apple Wallet, users can create and present an official ID, even if they don't have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID. However, the feature does not replace a physical passport and cannot yet be used for international travel or at border crossings.

Image Credits: Apple

Adding a passport to Apple Wallet is simple:

1. Tap the "Add (+)" button in the Wallet app.
2. Select "Driver's License or ID Card", then choose Digital ID.
3. Use your iPhone to scan the passport photo page and the embedded chip on the back for authenticity.
4. Take a selfie and complete facial and head movements for secure verification.

Once added, Digital ID functions much like Apple Pay. To present it, double-click the side or Home button, choose your Digital ID, and hold the iPhone or Apple Watch near an identity reader. Users verify their identity via Face ID or Touch ID and can see exactly which information is being shared before approving.

Image Credits: Apple

Privacy and Security First

Apple emphasises that it cannot see when, where, or how a Digital ID is used. The company also notes that users never need to unlock or hand over their device to show ID, ensuring maximum privacy.

All Digital ID data is encrypted and stored securely on the device, not on Apple's servers.

Still in Beta, But Expanding Quickly

The feature is currently in beta, as not all TSA locations have upgraded their identity readers to support it yet. The TSA website provides an updated list of participating airports and states; however, travellers are still advised to carry a physical ID for now.

Over time, Apple plans to extend Digital ID usage beyond airports to businesses, venues, and online platforms. Future updates could allow users to verify their age at bars or concerts and confirm identity online — for instance, when ordering age-restricted items through apps like Uber Eats.

In these cases, users could prove they're over 21 without revealing personal details like their name, address, or birthdate — a significant leap in privacy-focused identity verification.

One Step Closer to a Wallet-Free World

With passports, payment cards, tickets, and loyalty cards joining Apple Wallet, it's nearly a complete digital replacement for physical wallets.
The addition of Digital ID marks a pivotal move in Apple's long-term goal to make the iPhone an all-in-one identity and payment device.