U.S. Airports Lead The Way In Digital Security As Apple Introduces Its Game-Changing Digital ID To Enhance Domestic Travel And Identity Verification

Published on November 14, 2025

Apple’s introduction of the new Digital ID for iPhone and Apple Watch is set to revolutionize the travel experience for U.S. travelers. This innovation streamlines the identity verification process at airports, offering a secure and convenient alternative to traditional methods. By allowing passengers to present their ID directly from their devices, Apple enhances both privacy and efficiency, providing a seamless solution for identity checks. With the Digital ID, travelers can now enjoy faster, more secure TSA screenings, marking a significant leap forward in digital travel technology.

Apple has introduced a new feature called Digital ID, allowing users to create and store an identification card within Apple Wallet, leveraging information from their U.S. passport. This new digital ID can be presented securely using an iPhone or Apple Watch. The feature will first roll out in beta at TSA checkpoints across over 250 U.S. airports for domestic travel, enabling in-person identity verification. Apple plans to expand the use of Digital ID to other sectors and use cases in the future.

Digital ID offers a viable option for individuals who do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued ID but still want a convenient way to present identification through their Apple device. However, it’s important to note that Digital ID is not a substitute for a physical passport, and it cannot be used for international travel or border crossings. The rollout comes after the ability to add eligible driver’s licenses and state IDs to Apple Wallet, which provides an alternative for users without a U.S. passport.

Setting Up Digital ID in Apple Wallet

Setting up Digital ID in Apple Wallet is straightforward. Users begin by tapping the “Add” button within the Wallet app on their iPhone. From there, they select “Driver’s License or ID Cards” and then choose the “Digital ID” option. The setup process requires users to scan the photo page of their physical passport using their iPhone. Additionally, they must scan the embedded chip on the passport to ensure the authenticity of the data.

To further verify their identity, users will be prompted to take a selfie, and complete specific facial and head movements to ensure a secure and accurate identity verification process. Once the setup is complete, the Digital ID is successfully added to the Wallet app.

Using Digital ID in Apple Wallet

When users need to present their Digital ID, they can easily access it by double-clicking the side or home button on their iPhone or Apple Watch. From there, they can hold their device near an identity reader, where they will be prompted to authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID. This ensures that only the rightful owner of the Digital ID can present it.

In the future, Apple plans to extend Digital ID usage to additional businesses and organizations for identity and age verification in both physical locations and online. This adds even more convenience for users who need to authenticate their identity securely.

Security and Privacy of Digital ID

Digital ID integrates the robust privacy and security features already built into iPhones and Apple Watches. The data is encrypted, and when a user creates their Digital ID, their passport information is securely stored on the device. Apple ensures that it cannot track when or where the Digital ID is used or access the specific data presented.

Furthermore, biometric authentication, either via Face ID or Touch ID, guarantees that only the owner can use their Digital ID, adding an additional layer of security. The information shared during a transaction is limited to what is necessary, and users have the ability to review and approve the data before it’s shared. Importantly, users never have to unlock or physically hand over their device to present their ID.

Expansion of Digital ID

Along with Digital ID, Apple Wallet currently supports the addition of driver’s licenses and state IDs in several U.S. states and Puerto Rico. Recently, the feature expanded to include Montana, North Dakota, and West Virginia. For the first time, Apple Wallet also launched internationally, with Japan’s My Number Card now available for use on iPhones.

As the digital identification landscape continues to evolve, Apple’s Digital ID promises to simplify the way people verify their identity while maintaining a high level of security and privacy. With this new feature, Apple is not only enhancing convenience for travelers but also ensuring that personal information remains protected during the verification process. The continued expansion of Digital ID will provide more users with secure and reliable digital identification solutions.