How To Add A Digital ID To Your iPhone’s Wallet
Apple continues to expand the capabilities of its Wallet app, and one of the most significant recent additions is the ability to add a U.S. passport as a Digital ID. This provides a secure and convenient alternative for users whose states don’t yet support driver’s licenses in Wallet or for those who prefer to use their passport as their primary form of identification.
How to Add Your Digital ID
The process of adding a Digital ID to Apple Wallet is straightforward and can be completed in just a few minutes directly from your iPhone.
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Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
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Tap the “+” plus icon in the top-right corner.
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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 begin.
The Verification Process
To ensure security and authenticity, Apple requires a multi-step verification:
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Scan Your Passport: You will need to scan the photo page of your physical U.S. passport.
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Scan the NFC Chip: Hold your iPhone near the back cover of your passport to read the embedded chip. This step verifies the document’s legitimacy.
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Facial Verification: You will be asked to take a selfie and complete a series of facial and head movements to confirm your identity matches the passport photo.
Using Your Digital ID
Once added, you can present your Digital ID by double-clicking the Side button (or Home button on older iPhones) to access Apple Wallet and selecting your Digital ID.
Important Notes
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This feature is currently in a beta phase at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports across the United States.
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Apple has stated that additional use cases for the Digital ID will be announced in the future.
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The feature does not require a specific iOS update beyond the general availability of the Digital ID system.
By storing your passport in Apple Wallet, you can experience a more streamlined and contactless identity verification process, starting with air travel.
