Another State Implements Mobile IDs at TSA Checkpoints

Travelers with Louisiana IDs can now show mobile identification at certain security checkpoints, as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continues to roll out mobile driver’s license (mDL) procedures. 

Rather than handing a physical ID and boarding pass to a TSA agent, Louisiana residents can download the LA Wallet app to their smartphones and use that during the screening process at airports nationwide that have digital ID readers, including Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. 

“We are pleased to introduce this cutting-edge digital ID at our checkpoint. Those travelers who are early adopters of new technologies or are intrigued with this capability will find the mDL to be a convenient option when going through the security process,” said Arden Hudson, TSA’s federal security director for the State of Louisiana. “The TSA continues to embrace technology and we are happy to partner with the State of Louisiana and the leadership at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.”  

The TSA uses Credential Authentication Technology, known as CAT-2, which takes real-time photos of passengers to confirm their identity and scheduled flight. Those who do not wish to participate can still scan their physical IDS on this machine. 

New Orleans is now one of 27 cities whose airport has the CAT-2 technology, and Louisiana is one of eight states with digital ID capabilities, joining Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Maryland, and Utah. Travelers in the participating states need a REAL ID compliant license and to register it with their state’s app, which can be downloaded on the Apple App and Google Play stores.