Apple has announced a new feature called Digital ID, allowing users to create and present a digital identity through the Apple Wallet. This identity is securely generated using information from the user’s passport. The feature is currently being tested at TSA security checkpoints in more than 250 airports across the United States to verify travelers’ identities during domestic flights.
While Digital ID provides a convenient and secure option—especially for users without a driver’s license or a REAL ID—it does not replace a physical passport and cannot be used for international or cross‑border travel.
📌 Launch of Apple’s Digital ID Feature
According to Apple’s official statement, users can easily create and add a digital identity to Apple Wallet using their U.S. passport.
Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s VP of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, said:
“With the launch of Digital ID, we’re excited to expand the ways users can store and present their identity, while keeping the security and privacy built into iPhone and Apple Watch.”
She added that since Apple introduced the option to add driver's licenses and state IDs to Wallet in 2022, user interest has grown significantly—making Digital ID a more accessible solution for even more people across the country.
📲 How to Add a Digital ID to Apple Wallet
Creating a Digital ID is simple if you have a U.S. passport. Just follow these steps:
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Open Apple Wallet and tap the Add (+) button at the top.
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Select Driver’s License or ID Cards.
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Choose Digital ID and follow the on-screen instructions.
To activate the feature, you must:
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Scan the passport page containing your photo.
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Scan the embedded passport chip for authentication.
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Take a selfie with guided head movements to verify that you are the passport owner.
🔐 Benefits & Limitations of Apple’s Digital ID
✓ Advantages
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Allows users to create a digital identity easily and securely.
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Protects against tampering and identity theft.
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Uses Face ID or Touch ID for biometric authentication.
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Only the identity owner can present it.
✗ Limitations
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Not a substitute for a real passport.
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Cannot be used for international travel or border crossings.
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Requires:
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iPhone 11 or later with iOS 26.1 or newer, or
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Apple Watch Series 6 or later with watchOS 26.1 or newer.
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