You can now store passport, driver's license on your iPhone
What's the story
Apple has launched a new feature, Digital ID, to simplify airport check-ins. The innovative tool lets the travelers store and present their passport or driver's license directly from their iPhone or Apple Watch. The feature aims to provide a faster and more secure way of identity verification at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints across the US.
Feature details
How Digital ID works
The Digital ID feature allows users to digitize their passport or driver's license information in the Apple Wallet. This way, they can quickly and securely verify their identity at TSA checkpoints. Even though it can't replace a physical passport, Apple says this feature lets more people "create and present an ID in Apple Wallet even if they do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or state ID," by using information from their US passport.
Usage restrictions
Limitations of Digital ID
Apple has clarified that the Digital ID feature isn't a substitute for a physical passport and can't be used for international travel/border crossings. This clarification highlights the limitations of this new digital tool.
Acceptance
Where will it be accepted?
Digital ID will be accepted at TSA checkpoints in more than 250 airports across the US. While a comprehensive list of participating airports is yet to be released, Apple has confirmed that it will expand the program gradually in partnership with the TSA. This strategic move highlights Apple's commitment to making travel easier and more efficient for its users.
Setup requirements
How to add a Digital ID in Apple Wallet
To add a Digital ID in Apple Wallet, users need an iPhone 11 or later, or an Apple Watch Series 6 or later. The device must be running the latest version of iOS or watchOS with Face ID/Touch ID enabled and Bluetooth turned on. An Apple account with two-factor authentication enabled is also required along with an unexpired US passport and a US-based Apple device.