California Unveils Digital Driver's License: Apple Wallet Integration Brings IDs to iPhones
California Launches Digital Driver’s License Program with Apple Wallet
California residents can now add their driver’s licenses or state identification cards to their Apple Wallets, as announced by Apple as part of the state’s mobile driver’s license (mDL) pilot program. Up to 1.5 million eligible participants can now take advantage of this digital convenience.
The process involves scanning the physical driver’s license or state ID card using an iPhone. As an additional security measure, users must also complete a facial scan with specific head movements. State verification is required before the documents become available in the Apple Wallet.
While this digital option offers increased convenience, users are advised to continue carrying their physical IDs, as usage of the digital version is currently limited to specific authorized locations.
At present, the digital IDs can be used at select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints in airports, including San Francisco International, Los Angeles International, and San Jose Mineta International. Travelers can present their digital IDs without needing to hand over their physical licenses, IDs, or iPhones.
Beyond air travel, the digital IDs can also be presented to participating businesses and venues as valid proof of identity and age.
Apple emphasizes the security and privacy features of this new system. The IDs stored in Apple Wallet are encrypted, as is the history of ID presentation. Neither Apple nor the state issuing the ID can access this data. Users can only access their information using Face ID or Touch ID, and displaying the ID does not require the device to be fully unlocked.
California joins six other states already supporting Apple Wallet IDs: Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Hawaii, and Ohio. Looking ahead, Montana, New Mexico, and West Virginia are set to implement similar programs in the future.
This initiative marks a significant step towards modernizing identification systems and enhancing user convenience while maintaining robust security measures.
