Apple Wallet's Digital IDs: Which States Are Onboard and What's Next?
- Digital IDs in Apple Wallet could revolutionize how we use IDs, but only a few states are onboard.
- California is testing digital IDs, but Apple Wallet integration isn't in the cards yet.
- The TSA is piloting digital IDs at airports—will your state be next?
One of the most anticipated features from Apple’s WWDC 2021 was the ability to store IDs in the Apple Wallet app, heralded as the final step to being "fully free of your physical wallet." Yet, this promising feature is currently supported by a mere handful of states.
As of now, only Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, and Georgia have launched support for digital IDs through Apple Wallet on iPhone and Apple Watch. This initial rollout is quite limited, but it's a start. In the meantime, over 20 states are reportedly working towards adopting digital IDs for their citizens, according to the Secure Technology Alliance.
Image credit: NFCW
In an intriguing development, the TSA is running a pilot program to accept digital IDs at select airports. Apple has indicated that TSA security checkpoints might soon be the first places you can use your digital ID. However, the specifics of this program and its expansion remain to be seen.
California is an interesting case. The state is testing digital IDs but through its standalone app, the "CA DMV Wallet," rather than integrating with Apple’s system. This app allows residents to verify their identity and access a digital version of their ID, though everyone is advised to still carry physical ID cards as the program is in its pilot phase.
The list of states exploring mobile digital licenses includes Alabama, Florida, New York, and Texas, among others. Not all of these will necessarily support Apple Wallet’s implementation, but it's clear that many states are at least considering the concept of digital IDs.
Image credit: Vox
Apple has faced delays and discrepancies in the rollout of this feature, often working on a state-by-state basis. This has led to some confusion, with lists of participating states varying between sources. The complexity of negotiating with individual state governments has undoubtedly contributed to the slower-than-expected adoption.
Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom had hinted earlier this year that digital IDs would be available soon. The state has indeed expanded the availability of digital IDs, though not through Apple Wallet. The CA DMV Wallet app is now open to the public, allowing residents to begin the process of obtaining a digital ID, with a pilot cap set at 1.5 million participants.
Security checkpoints at major California airports like LAX and SFO are already equipped to handle mobile driver’s licenses. This is a significant step forward, even if full integration with Apple Wallet remains a future goal. The progress of digital IDs in the US is evolving, albeit slowly, and Apple enthusiasts are eagerly watching to see when their state might support this futuristic feature.
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Thank you for visiting Apple Scoop! As a dedicated independent news organization, we strive to deliver the latest updates and in-depth journalism on everything Apple. Have insights or thoughts to share? Drop a comment below—our team actively engages with and responds to our community. Return to the home page.30th June, 2024 at 1:27 pm by Carlos
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