Apple has introduced a new way for California residents to present their driver’s licenses and state IDs through Apple Wallet, available on iPhone and Apple Watch. This new feature is part of the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) mobile driver’s license (mDL) pilot program, representing a major step forward in the secure and private digitization of identification documents.
The arrival of digital IDs in Apple Wallet
Apple announced that California driver’s licenses and state IDs can now be added to Apple Wallet, allowing residents to seamlessly and securely present their IDs using their iPhone or Apple Watch. This feature is being rolled out as part of the DMV’s pilot program, which has been running since last year and currently includes 1.5 million participants.
According to Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s Vice President of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, “enabling California residents to add and present their IDs with their iPhone or Apple Watch replaces the traditional wallet with a more secure and private digital alternative.” Bailey also emphasized the importance of this launch, noting that California is not only one of the largest states in the U.S., but also Apple’s home state.
California’s government backs the initiative
California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed support for this innovation: “Now, Californians have the option to add their driver’s license or state ID to their iPhone or Apple Watch using Apple Wallet,” said Newsom. He also noted that this integration is part of the state’s broader mission to better serve its citizens in the digital age.
Expanding to other states and going international
California isn’t the only state adopting this technological advancement. Hawaii, Ohio, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland have already implemented digital IDs in Apple Wallet. Other states, including Montana, New Mexico, and West Virginia, have also committed to adopting the feature soon. Furthermore, Japan plans to integrate its My Number Card into Apple Wallet, marking the first international expansion of the digital ID system.
How to add an ID to Apple Wallet
The process for adding a driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet is straightforward. Users can tap the Add (+) button at the top of the Wallet app on their iPhone, select “Driver’s License or State ID,” and follow the on-screen prompts to begin the setup and verification process.
California residents will need to scan their physical license or ID card using their iPhone and take a selfie, which will be securely sent to the issuing state for verification. As an extra layer of security, users will be asked to complete facial and head movements during the setup process. Once verified by the state, their ID will be added to Apple Wallet.
Using IDs
Once the ID is added, users can securely present their IDs both in person and within apps, whether to verify age or identity. To present an ID in person, users simply open Apple Wallet, select their ID, and hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near an identity reader. After reviewing the requested information, they authenticate the transaction using Face ID or Touch ID.
Currently, Apple Wallet IDs can be used at select TSA checkpoints, businesses, entertainment venues, and Apple Stores across the U.S., where they can be used for order pickups or Genius Bar appointments. There are also apps, like Tap2iD Mobile, VeriScan, and Mobile ID Verify, that securely accept mobile IDs without needing any additional hardware.
Users will be able soon to present their digital IDs for services like CLEAR, streamlining the process of member enrolment and other everyday activities.
Presenting IDs in apps
To use their ID in apps, users can select the “Verify with Apple Wallet” or “Continue with Apple Wallet” option. From there, they can review the information requested and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID before sharing their data. Currently, apps like Turo support Apple Wallet IDs, and other partners such as Uber Eats and MyChart are expected to integrate this feature soon.
Ensuring security and privacy in Apple Wallet
Apple places a strong emphasis on the privacy and security of its digital ID features. When users add their ID to Apple Wallet, the state receives only the necessary information to approve or deny the request. The data is then encrypted and stored securely on the user’s device, meaning neither Apple nor the issuing state can access the ID unless the user chooses to present it.
Moreover, the user’s presentation history is encrypted and stored only on their device, so Apple cannot view or access this information. When presenting an ID, only the information required for that specific transaction is shared, and the user can review and authorize the data before sharing it using Face ID or Touch ID. There is no need to unlock or hand over the device to share an ID.
The introduction of California driver’s licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet is a major step forward in the digitization of important documents. With this feature, Californians can now present their IDs quickly, securely, and privately, reflecting Apple’s commitment to privacy and innovation.
