Before you try walking through a TSA checkpoint with nothing but your iPhone, you need to know something simple but crucial: Apple’s Digital ID isn’t available everywhere yet. It’s rolling out, but not universally. And even in places where you can use it, the rules vary. So let’s break down which states actually support Digital ID in Apple Wallet right now, what that support looks like, and what it means for your next trip.
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What “Digital ID availability” really means
Apple didn’t flip a universal switch here. For you to use your Digital ID, your state has to approve it, and TSA has to support it at their checkpoints. Right now, Digital ID is only accepted at more than 250 TSA checkpoints and only within the U.S., since it can’t replace your physical passport for international travel.
Support depends on two separate things:
- Whether your state allows IDs in Apple Wallet.
- Whether your airport is part of TSA’s digital ID program.
If both are in place, you’re good to go.
States that currently support Digital ID in Apple Wallet
Here’s the thing: the list isn’t massive yet, but it’s growing. Apple confirmed these states (plus Puerto Rico) already support adding a driver’s license or state-issued ID to Apple Wallet:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Iowa
- Maryland
- Montana
- New Mexico
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Puerto Rico
- West Virginia
If you live in one of these states, you can open Apple Wallet, tap the + button, and start adding your ID—either your state ID or a Digital ID pulled from your U.S. passport.
What if your state isn’t on the list?
Then Apple Wallet won’t accept your state-issued ID yet. You still can create a Digital ID using your U.S. passport, but keep expectations realistic: it only works for domestic TSA identity checks right now, not for bars, hotels, or other businesses.
Apple says more states are coming, but no timeline has been announced. If your state doesn’t appear, you’ll have to keep using physical ID for most situations.
Why TSA support matters just as much
Even if your state supports Digital ID, TSA has to recognize it at your airport. Right now, more than 250 TSA checkpoints accept it, but that doesn’t mean every airport in your state does. The rollout is still labeled “beta,” which is Apple’s way of saying: be prepared for growing pains.
Regardless, TSA is clear about one thing: you still need to carry a physical ID. If the tech glitches or your airport isn’t set up for it, they won’t wave you through.
A quick look at how Digital ID is used
If your state qualifies and your airport supports it, the actual process is simple:
- Double-click your iPhone or wake your Apple Watch.
- Tap your Digital ID.
- Hold your device near the TSA identity reader.
- Review what data TSA is requesting.
- Approve the request with Face ID, Touch ID, or a double-click.
TSA will snap a one-time photo for identity comparison. They say the image is deleted afterward, and the process is optional.
The bottom line
If you’re trying to decide whether Apple’s Digital ID will actually make your next trip easier, the answer depends entirely on your state—and sometimes even your specific airport. The tech is here, but the rollout isn’t universal yet.
If your state is on the list above, you’re ahead of the curve. If not, you’re in “wait and see” territory. Either way, keep your physical ID on you. Apple may want a wallet-free future, but we aren’t quite there yet.
Just because we can doesn’t necessarily mean we should. Digital IDs have all the issues, watchouts, and security concerns of anything and everything already digitized…if not more! I’d like to see additional security assurances prior to mass implementation.