How to Add Your Driver's License to Apple Wallet

What you need to add your driver's license to Apple Wallet

You can store a digital copy of your driver's license or state ID in Apple Wallet on your iPhone or iPad. To do this, you need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPad Pro with an M2 chip or later. Your device must be running iOS 16.1 or later (for iPhone) or iPadOS 16.1 or later (for iPad). Apple Wallet does not yet support driver's licenses from all states — currently, only a limited number of states have made this feature available to their residents.

Before you start, gather your physical driver's license or state ID and have your device nearby. You will also need to verify your identity during the setup process, which typically involves taking a photo of your ID and a selfie. Make sure you are in a well-lit space and that your face and ID are clearly visible.

Key Takeaways

Only certain states currently allow residents to add their driver's license to Apple Wallet, so check whether your state participates before attempting to add yours.
You need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPad Pro with an M2 chip or later running iOS 16.1 or iPadOS 16.1 or later.
The process involves opening Wallet, selecting the option to add an ID, taking photos of your license and a selfie, and verifying your identity with your state's system.
Once added, you can present your digital ID at TSA checkpoints and some other locations without removing your phone from your pocket or bag.

Step-by-step process to add your ID to Wallet

Open the Wallet app on your iPhone or iPad. Tap the plus sign (+) in the upper right corner, then select "Driver's License or State ID" from the menu. The app will show you which states are currently supported — if your state is not listed, you cannot add your ID at this time.

If your state is available, tap "Continue." You will be asked to take a photo of the front of your driver's license or state ID. Position your ID in the frame shown on your screen, making sure all four corners are visible and the text is clear. Take the photo, then review it. If it is blurry or incomplete, retake it.

Next, you will take a photo of the back of your ID using the same process. After that, the app will ask you to take a selfie. Position your face in the center of the frame, keep your expression neutral, and make sure there is good lighting on your face. You may need to take multiple photos before one is accepted.

Once your photos are submitted, Apple will send your information securely to your state's motor vehicle department for verification. This process can take several minutes to several hours. You will receive a notification when verification is complete. If your state requires additional steps — such as answering security questions or confirming information — you will be prompted to do so within the Wallet app.

Which states currently support digital driver's licenses

As of now, only a handful of states have made digital driver's licenses available through Apple Wallet. These include Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, and Utah. More states are expected to add this feature over time, but the rollout has been gradual.

To find out whether your state is supported, open Wallet, tap the plus sign, and select "Driver's License or State ID." The app will display all participating states. If your state is not listed, you cannot add your ID to Wallet yet, even if you meet all other requirements. Check back periodically, as your state may become available in the future.

How to use your digital ID once it is added

After your ID is verified and added to Wallet, you can present it at TSA checkpoints at participating airports. When you reach the ID scanner at security, hold your iPhone or iPad near the reader. You do not need to unlock your phone or open the Wallet app — the reader will detect your digital ID automatically. Some airports may still ask to see your physical ID as a backup, so keep it with you.

Your digital ID is encrypted and stored securely on your device. Apple cannot see the information on your ID, and merchants or TSA agents cannot store or access your data beyond what they see during the transaction. If your phone is lost or stolen, your digital ID is protected by your device's security features, and you can remove it remotely using Find My iPhone.

What to do if verification fails or takes too long

If your photos are rejected during the upload process, the Wallet app will tell you why — usually because the image is blurry, cut off, or poorly lit. Delete the rejected photo and retake it in better lighting. Make sure your entire ID is visible in the frame and that text is sharp and readable.

If verification is taking longer than expected, check your email for messages from your state's motor vehicle department. Some states may ask you to complete additional steps, such as confirming your address or answering security questions. If you do not receive any communication after 24 hours, you can contact your state's motor vehicle department directly to check the status of your request.

If your state is not yet supported or if you encounter persistent technical problems, you can continue using your physical driver's license. Digital ID is a convenience feature, not a requirement, and your physical ID remains valid for all purposes.

Keeping your digital ID up to date

If you renew your driver's license or state ID, you will need to add the new version to Wallet. Remove the old ID from Wallet by opening the app, selecting your ID, tapping the three dots in the upper right corner, and choosing "Remove." Then follow the same process to add your new ID using the updated photos and information.

If your address, name, or other information changes, update your physical ID through your state's motor vehicle department first. Once your physical ID reflects the changes, you can remove the old digital ID from Wallet and add the new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my digital driver's license everywhere I use my physical one?

Not yet. Currently, digital driver's licenses work primarily at TSA checkpoints at participating airports. Some states are working to expand where digital IDs can be used, but for now, you should carry your physical ID for other situations like traffic stops, age verification at stores, or banking.

What happens if my phone dies or I do not have it with me?

You will need your physical driver's license. Digital ID is a convenience option, not a replacement for your physical ID. Always carry your physical license as a backup.

Is my information safe in Apple Wallet?

Your ID information is encrypted on your device and Apple cannot access it. When you present your digital ID, only the information needed for that specific transaction is shared. Your data is not stored by TSA or other readers.

Can I add my ID if I have an older iPhone?

No. You need an iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPad Pro with an M2 chip or later. Older models do not support this feature due to hardware requirements.

What if my state is not listed as supported?

You cannot add your ID to Wallet if your state has not yet made this feature available. Check the Wallet app periodically to see if your state has been added. In the meantime, continue using your physical driver's license.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.