Imagine a world where your phone replaces your wallet entirely. With mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay, you can easily ditch the cash and still shop freely. Even better, these apps allow you to withdraw cash directly from ATMs, eliminating the need for physical debit cards.
But it doesn’t stop there. Your phone can now hold important documents like insurance cards and other essentials, making it your one-stop shop for everyday needs. If you are ready to embrace a lighter, more streamlined way of life, the mobile-only future is closer than you think.
Ready to learn about using your digital ID? In this article, we’ll cover
- Supported states: See if your state allows adding your ID to Apple Wallet.
- Adding your ID: Step-by-step instructions for getting your ID on your iPhone.
- Using your digital ID: Learn when and how to use the digitized version.
Note: You will need your ID or driver’s license (US only) available to complete the process.
How to add your driver’s license or ID to the Wallet app
Step 1 – Open the Wallet app
- Open the Wallet app and tap the “+” sign in the top right corner.
- Then, choose “Driver’s License or State ID” and select your state.
- You will have options for four states–Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland.
Step 2 – Scan ID and follow prompts
- Scan your ID and follow the prompts for facial verification.
Step 3 – Take a picture and submit information to DMV
- Snap a selfie and provide all the necessary information to the state’s DMV.
Processing times and completion
Following submission, processing times may vary from person to person and be determined by other factors relating to the DMV review process. Once completed, the ID will appear below, which is different from your typical ID or driver’s license. Generally, IDs and driver’s licenses will provide personal details such as date of birth, address, etc.
You can access the Wallet by double-tapping the Side (power) button, which will bring up your cards, including your newly added ID or driver’s license. Below is a sample of a newly added Colorado driver’s license.
Current list of states that accept Apple’s digital ID
While several states have already launched Apple’s digital ID feature in Wallet, discussions are ongoing with at least 30 additional states to expand its reach. Apple hasn’t confirmed the exact launch dates, but they have shared a list of states (below) that are expected to offer digital IDs in Apple Wallet soon.
- Connecticut
- Hawaii
- Iowa
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Puerto Rico
- Utah
Final thoughts
All in all, adding IDs to your Wallet app can be a great option, especially if you want to have them stored somewhere just in case something happens to your ID. Furthermore, if your school or company participates, you can conveniently store your employee badge or student ID in the Wallet app on your iPhone or Apple Watch. This allows you to seamlessly access your workplace using your device instead of a physical badge and access locations where your student ID card is accepted, such as your dorm, the library, and campus events.
