Apple’s new Digital ID feature in iOS 26 allows you to securely store a digital version of your government-issued passport information directly in the Wallet app on your iPhone. Once added, you can present it at supported TSA checkpoints, compatible airline apps, and certain ID-verification services—without needing to pull out your physical document. The ID data is encrypted, protected by Face ID or Touch ID, and can be set up entirely from your device.
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How Digital ID Works in iOS 26
A Digital ID is a secure, government-approved version of your passport details that lives inside the Wallet app. Apple has partnered with the U.S. State Department and TSA to make this possible, streamlining identity verification when traveling or using supported apps.
Here’s what makes it work:
- Secure Storage: Your passport data is encrypted and stored locally on your iPhone, not uploaded to iCloud.
- Biometric Protection: Access is restricted to you via Face ID or Touch ID.
- Supported Use Cases: TSA PreCheck lanes, airline apps, and certain ID-checking services. Availability is rolling out gradually, so support may vary by airport or service.
This makes identity checks faster, contactless, and more private.
How to Add a Digital ID to Your Apple Wallet
Adding your passport information is similar to adding a credit card or driver’s license, but with extra verification steps:
- Open Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay.
- Tap Add ID.
- Follow the guided steps:
- Scan your physical passport using the iPhone’s camera and NFC chip.
- Complete facial/head movement verification.
- Provide additional details such as your passport number if required.
- Verification is handled automatically by your iPhone and the issuing agency’s systems. Approval may take minutes to hours.
- Once approved, your Digital ID appears in Wallet under IDs.
Notes:
- Currently supported by U.S. passport agencies and TSA checkpoints.
- You must be 18+ and use an iPhone with Face ID.
- Latest iOS security and Wallet updates may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Functionally yes, for supported uses like TSA PreCheck. But it does not replace your physical passport for international travel—always carry the original.
You can use it at:
– TSA PreCheck checkpoints in select airports
– Supported airline apps and terminals
– Approved ID-checking services
Yes. Your digital passport is:
– Encrypted and stored on-device
– Never uploaded to Apple servers or iCloud
– Accessible only with Face ID or Touch ID
Passport support is separate from state-issued IDs. If your passport-issuing agency supports Digital ID, you can add it, even if your state doesn’t yet support driver’s license integration.
Summary
- Digital ID stores your official passport information in Apple Wallet.
- Protected by Face ID/Touch ID and local encryption.
- Setup requires scanning your physical passport and verifying your identity.
- Works at TSA lanes, apps, and more, but physical passports are still required for full travel.
Conclusion
Apple’s Digital ID feature in iOS 26 brings convenience and security to identity verification. Whether you’re checking in at TSA or using supported apps, you can simply tap your iPhone instead of fumbling for documents. With biometric protection and on-device encryption, your information stays private and secure.
Today is June 7, 2026. I have an iPhone 14 which is on iOS 26.5. Digital ID doesn’t show up in my wallet. The Apple hype says that if my passport issuing agency supports Digital ID then I can add my passport. I am a US citizen and my passprt is US. However, I currently reside in the UK. What is Apple’s major malfunction in overlooking US citizens with US passports who are ex-pats?
I have IOS 26 now, and it is not available, as of 10/10/2026.
Guessing this won’t actually be supported until about 26.2 or 26.3, since it still isn’t in the beta.
“Tap “Add ID” or “Digital Passport”.” option does not exist
The feature is coming soon, but you’ll only see and use it after iOS 26 officially launches (likely in mid-September 2025).