You can store your driver's license on your iPhone using the Wallet app, but only if your state participates and your phone meets the requirements

Apple's digital ID feature lets you add your driver's license or state ID to your iPhone's Wallet app, so you can show it on your phone instead of carrying the physical card. Not every state offers this yet — as of now, only a handful of states have rolled it out, with more expected to follow. Even if your state participates, you'll need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or newer to use the feature. The process involves verifying your identity through your phone's camera and biometric security (Face ID or Touch ID).

Your digital ID has the same legal status as your physical license at TSA checkpoints and participating retailers. You should still carry your physical license as a backup, especially when traveling outside your state or to places that may not accept digital IDs yet.

Key Takeaways

  • Digital ID storage is only available in a limited number of states right now, so check your state's DMV website first to see if it's offered.
  • You need an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max to store a digital ID — older iPhone models cannot use this feature.
  • The setup process requires you to take photos of your license and verify your identity using your phone's camera and Face ID or Touch ID.
  • You can add your digital ID to Wallet alongside your physical license and use it at TSA checkpoints and some retail locations.

Check whether your state offers digital ID storage

Before you start, confirm that your state's DMV has partnered with Apple to offer digital ID. As of now, only a small number of states have launched this feature, and the rollout is gradual. Visit your state's DMV website and search for "digital ID" or "Apple Wallet" to see if it's available. You can also search Apple's support page for a current list of participating states.

If your state doesn't offer digital ID yet, you still need to carry your physical license. Some states have announced plans to add the feature in the future, so check back periodically if yours isn't listed.

Verify your iPhone model and iOS version

Digital ID requires an iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max. If you have an older iPhone — including the standard iPhone 15 or iPhone 15 Plus — you cannot store a digital ID, even if your state offers it. The feature relies on the advanced camera and security features in the Pro models.

Make sure your phone is running the latest version of iOS. Go to Settings, tap General, then Software Update to check for and install any available updates. Your Wallet app should also be up to date.

Open Wallet and start adding your ID

On your iPhone, open the Wallet app. Tap the plus sign (+) in the upper right corner to add a new card or ID. Select "Driver's License or State ID" from the menu. You'll be prompted to choose which state's ID you want to add.

The app will explain what information you'll need and what the process involves. Read through this carefully — it tells you exactly what photos and identity verification steps come next.

Take photos of your license and verify your identity

The Wallet app will guide you through taking photos of the front and back of your driver's license using your iPhone's camera. Make sure the photos are clear, well-lit, and show all the text and security features on your card. The app will check that the photos meet quality standards before moving forward.

Next, you'll complete an identity verification step using your phone's camera. This typically involves taking a selfie and following on-screen instructions — you may be asked to look in certain directions or blink. This step confirms that you're the person on the license. You'll also use Face ID or Touch ID to authorize the addition of your ID to Wallet.

The verification process is encrypted and handled by Apple and your state's DMV — your photos and biometric data are not stored on Apple's servers in a way that lets Apple see them.

Wait for approval from your state DMV

After you submit your information, your state's DMV will review and verify your identity. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to several days, depending on the state and how busy the DMV is. You'll receive a notification on your phone when your digital ID is approved and ready to use.

If there's a problem with your photos or identity verification, the DMV will let you know and give you the chance to resubmit. Keep your physical license with you until your digital ID is fully approved and active.

Use your digital ID at TSA checkpoints and participating locations

Once your digital ID is approved, you can show it at TSA security checkpoints at participating airports. You can also use it at some retail locations and other venues that accept digital IDs. To show your ID, open Wallet, select your driver's license, and hold your phone up to the reader or to the person checking your ID. You'll need to use Face ID or Touch ID to authorize each use.

Your digital ID has the same legal status as your physical license — it's not a replacement, but a second way to show your identity. You should still carry your physical license as a backup, especially when traveling outside your state or to places that may not accept digital IDs yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my state doesn't offer digital ID yet?

You'll need to carry your physical driver's license. Check your state DMV's website periodically for updates on when digital ID will be available. In the meantime, your physical license is the only accepted form of ID.

Can I use my digital ID at the airport if I don't have my physical license?

At TSA checkpoints, yes — your digital ID in Wallet is accepted. However, for other travel purposes or if you're leaving the country, you may still need your physical license or passport. Check TSA's website for the most current list of accepted forms of ID.

What happens if I lose my iPhone or it gets stolen?

Your digital ID is tied to your phone's security. If you lose your phone, you can remove the ID from your account through iCloud or by contacting your state's DMV. You'll still have your physical license to use in the meantime.

Do I need to delete my digital ID if I renew my license?

When you renew your physical license, you'll need to add the new license to Wallet as a separate digital ID. You can keep the old one in Wallet until it expires, or delete it manually. Your state DMV will guide you through the renewal process.

Is my personal information safe when I show my digital ID?

Your digital ID only shows the information that's on your physical license. When you present it, the reader sees the same details as they would from a physical card. Face ID or Touch ID authorization adds a layer of security — only you can authorize the display of your ID.