Apple’s Digital ID Officially Rolling Out for U.S. Travelers

Apple’s new Digital ID feature, which was quietly delayed after being announced earlier this year, is finally, officially rolling out for domestic travelers.

Digital ID will allow Apple users to store their driver’s license in their Apple Wallet and use it to get through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints at more than 250 airports across the U.S. The ID will only be available for those traveling domestically, and it will not replace a physical passport for international travel.

Initially, the rollout will be narrow. Apple says it will be available “first in beta at TSA checkpoints” at the 250-plus airports, though Apple did not identify them in its announcement this week (TMR reached out to Apple for clarification on the airports). Still, the expectation is that its availability will only grow.

Digital ID will also provide a way for travelers who have not yet obtained a REAL ID to fly. Apple says the TSA will accept Digital ID in lieu of a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID, but stressed that it is not a replacement for a physical passport.

How to Set Up and Use Digital ID

To add the ID to an Apple Wallet, iPhone users can tap the Add button (+) at the top of the screen in their Wallet, select Driver’s License or ID Cards, and then follow the on-screen instructions to set up the ID. Only users with the latest iOS (iOS 26.1 or later) on their iPhones will see the option. Those with older versions will only see a state-by-state option for those states that have approved Digital ID.

A passport is required to complete the process, which includes scanning the picture page of the passport and then allowing their iPhone to read the chip embedded on the back of the passport. Users will also need to take a selfie for verification and go through a series of facial and head movements. All the data will then have to be verified, and users will get an email once that process is complete.

Once verified, the Digital ID will be added to their Wallet, next to their credit cards, boarding passes, and event tickets.

To use the ID, users can double-click the iPhone’s side button or home button to access their Wallet and then select the ID. They will be asked to use Face ID, Touch ID, or their security code to authenticate.