In early 2022, residents of select U.S. states will be able to add their driver's license or state ID to the Wallet app on the iPhone and Apple Watch, providing a convenient and contactless way to display proof of identity or age.
The Security Technology Alliance shared a post stating that the TSA will begin accepting mobile driver's licenses at airports in two U.S. states in February of 2022. It's unclear if digital IDs will be limited to states' own apps at first, or if Wallet app integration will be ready in time.
In September, Apple revealed the first states that would allow residents to add their driver's license or state ID to the Wallet app, with Connecticut, Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Oklahoma, and Utah to follow. The Security Technology Alliance said several other states have piloted mobile driver's license usage.
Residents of participating states will be able to add a driver's license or state ID to the wallet app by simply tapping the plus sign at the top of the app, and then using an identity reader on their phone or Apple Watch to present their ID at the security checkpoint.
After authorizing with Face ID or Touch ID, users don't need to show or give their device to the security officer for their ID, according to Apple.
When adding an ID to the Wallet app, Apple said users will need to take a photo of their face and provide it to the issuing state for verification. Users will be prompted to make a series of facial and head movements during the setup process.
The feature is not enabled in the first iOS 15.3 or watchOS 8.4 versions because Apple has not provided a specific release date. The feature was supposed to launch this year, but it was delayed.
