Starting this week, people living in Oklahoma can easily add a digital copy of their driver’s license or state identification card directly to the Apple Wallet app. The state officially became the 16th region in the United States to support the digital identification feature for the iPhone. The move gives residents a simple way to present their credentials without needing to dig through a physical bag or hand over a personal device.
The digital identification works at select airport security lines
To get started, residents simply open the wallet application on their phone and tap the plus icon in the top right corner. After selecting the driver’s license option and choosing Oklahoma from the list, the screen guides users through a quick setup process. The digital ID also syncs with the Apple Watch, allowing people to pull up their details directly from their wrist.
Once set up, travelers can use the digital card at over 250 TSA checkpoints across the country for domestic flights. Users just tap their device near the identity reader. A prompt will ask for Face ID or Touch ID authentication before sharing any information, keeping personal details highly secure. You do not even need to unlock your phone to complete the scan.
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You still need to carry your physical driver’s license
While the new feature is very handy for frequent flyers, Apple clearly notes that it is not a complete replacement for a plastic card just yet. Law enforcement officers do not currently accept digital identification during traffic stops. Because of this, drivers are still legally required to carry a physical license when operating a vehicle.
On top of that, only a small number of everyday businesses and apps have the hardware needed to read the digital cards. The system serves as a great backup option where accepted, but it will take long-term adoption from more states and local shops before it becomes the only identification you need to carry.
With Oklahoma now on board and a handful of other states preparing to launch soon, the push toward fully digital wallets is steadily gaining ground across the country.
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