California joins growing list of states embracing digital IDs on iPhone and Apple Watch
Apple announced today that Californians can now add their driver’s licenses and state identification cards to Apple Wallet, allowing residents to use their iPhone or Apple Watch as a secure form of identification. This initiative is part of the California Department of Motor Vehicles’ (DMV) mobile driver’s license (mDL) pilot program, which currently has a cap of 1.5 million participants.
“Enabling California residents to seamlessly add and present their IDs with their iPhone or Apple Watch represents a significant step in replacing the physical wallet with a more secure and private digital wallet,” said Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet. “The launch also represents an important milestone in the rollout of IDs in Apple Wallet. Not only is California one of the largest states in the U.S., but it’s also our own backyard, and we’re excited to bring an easy and transparent way to present IDs in our home state.”
Governor Gavin Newsom expressed enthusiasm for the new feature. “Californians now have the option of adding their driver’s license or state ID to their iPhone or Apple Watch in Apple Wallet,” he said. “With this new integration, we’re working to better serve the people of California in the 21st century.”
Expanding Digital ID Adoption
California’s adoption of digital IDs in Apple Wallet follows similar launches in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Hawaii, and Ohio. Additionally, Montana, New Mexico, and West Virginia have committed to implementing the feature. On an international scale, Japan plans to introduce its My Number Card to Apple Wallet, marking the first expansion of the service outside the United States.
How to Add Your ID to Apple Wallet
To add a driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet, users can:
- Open the Wallet app on their iPhone.
- Tap the plus symbol (+) at the top of the screen.
- Select “Driver’s License or State ID.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions, which include scanning the physical ID and taking a selfie.
- Complete a series of facial and head movements for verification purposes.
The submitted information is securely sent to the state issuing authority for approval. Once verified, the digital ID is available in the Wallet app.
Using Your Digital ID
Users can present their digital ID in various settings:
- In Person: Hold the iPhone or Apple Watch near a compatible identity reader. After reviewing the information requested, authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID.
- In Apps: Select the “Verify with Apple Wallet” or “Continue with Apple Wallet” option within supported apps. Review the requested information and authenticate to share.
Currently, digital IDs can be used at select TSA checkpoints, participating businesses, venues, and Apple Store locations across the country. Apps like Tap2iD Mobile, VeriScan, and Mobile ID Verify accept IDs in Apple Wallet for age verification without additional hardware. Upcoming integrations include services like CLEAR for member enrollment, MyChart for healthcare access, and Uber Eats for delivery services.
Privacy and Security Measures
Apple emphasizes that privacy and security are central to the digital ID feature:
- Data Encryption: All ID information is encrypted and stored on the user’s device.
- User Consent: Users must authorize any sharing of their ID information, and they can review specific data requested before approval.
- Limited Access: Neither Apple nor the state issuing authority can access personal ID data without user permission.
- Anonymized Transactions: Apple and issuing states do not receive information about when or where IDs are presented.
A Step Toward a Digital Future
The introduction of digital driver’s licenses and state IDs in California represents a significant move toward the broader adoption of digital identification methods. By integrating IDs into Apple Wallet, residents gain a convenient and secure way to verify their identity, potentially reducing reliance on physical documents.
As more states and countries explore digital identification solutions, Apple’s initiative may pave the way for a future where traditional wallets become obsolete.
