How to Add Your Driver's License to Your iPhone

Adding your driver's license to Apple Wallet

You can store your driver's license or state ID directly in the Wallet app on your iPhone, where it appears alongside your credit cards and passes. When you're ready to show it, you unlock your phone and tap the ID in Wallet — you don't hand over your phone. The process takes about five minutes and works on iPhone XS and newer models running iOS 15.1 or later.

Not every state offers this feature yet. As of now, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, Oklahoma, and Utah have rolled out digital ID support through Apple Wallet. More states are expected to add the feature over time. If your state isn't listed, you'll need to wait for your state's DMV to partner with Apple, or continue carrying your physical license.

Key Takeaways

You need an iPhone XS or newer running iOS 15.1 or later, and your state must support digital IDs in Apple Wallet.
The process starts in the Wallet app by tapping the plus sign and selecting "Driver's License or State ID."
You'll photograph the front and back of your physical license, then take a selfie and verify your identity through facial recognition or a security code.
Once added, you can show your ID by unlocking your phone and tapping it in Wallet — you don't need to hand over your device.

Check your iPhone model and iOS version first

Before you start, confirm your phone can support a digital ID. Open Settings, tap General, then About. Look for the iOS version number — you need iOS 15.1 or later. If your version is older, go to Settings, tap General, then Software Update to install the latest version.

Your iPhone model also matters. The feature works on iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, and any newer model. If you have an iPhone X or earlier, your phone cannot store a digital ID in Wallet, even with the latest iOS. You can still use Apple Wallet for credit cards and passes, but not for government-issued ID.

Open Wallet and start the ID process

Tap the Wallet app on your home screen. In the bottom right corner, you'll see a plus sign (+). Tap it, then look for the option that says "Driver's License or State ID" — it may appear under a section labeled "Other" or at the top of the menu. Tap that option.

The app will ask you to confirm your state. Select the state that issued your license. If your state isn't listed, the app will tell you that digital ID isn't available yet in your state, and you won't be able to proceed. In that case, you'll need to carry your physical license until your state launches the feature.

Photograph your license and take a selfie

The app will ask you to photograph the front of your license first. Place your license on a flat surface with good lighting, then position your phone's camera directly above it. The app will guide you to center the license in the frame. Once the app detects the license clearly, it captures the image automatically — you don't tap a button.

Next, you'll photograph the back of your license the same way. After both sides are captured, the app asks you to take a selfie. Follow the on-screen instructions to position your face in the frame. The app uses this photo to verify your identity and prevent fraud. You'll also be asked to look in specific directions or blink to confirm you're a real person.

Verify your identity and complete setup

After your selfie, the app will ask you to verify your identity. You can choose between two methods: Face ID (if your phone has it) or a six-digit security code sent to your phone number on file with your state's DMV. If you choose Face ID, look at your phone's screen and let it scan your face. If you choose the security code, you'll receive a text message with a code to enter.

Once you've verified your identity, the app sends your information to your state's DMV to confirm it matches their records. This verification usually takes a few minutes, but can take up to 24 hours. You'll see a notification when the process is complete. Your digital ID then appears in Wallet and is ready to use.

How to show your ID when you need it

When someone asks to see your ID — at a store, airport, or police stop — open Wallet and tap your driver's license. Your phone will ask you to unlock it using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode. Once unlocked, your ID appears on the screen. The person checking your ID can see the front of your license, and you control what they see — you don't hand over your phone.

If they need to see the back of your license, swipe left on the ID to reveal it. You remain in control of the interaction at all times. Your physical license stays in your wallet as a backup. Many places still accept only physical IDs, so keep carrying your license until digital ID becomes more widely accepted.

Troubleshooting common problems

If the app says your state isn't supported, you're in a state that hasn't partnered with Apple yet. Check back periodically — your state's DMV website will announce when digital ID becomes available. If your state is supported but the app won't let you proceed, make sure your iOS version is fully updated and you're using an iPhone XS or newer.

If verification fails, the app will tell you why — usually because the information on your license doesn't match your DMV records, or the photos weren't clear enough. You can try again, making sure your license photos are well-lit and centered. If you keep getting rejected, contact your state's DMV directly to confirm your information is correct in their system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I delete my digital ID from my iPhone?

Yes. Open Wallet, tap and hold your driver's license, then tap the three dots in the corner and select "Remove." Your digital ID is deleted from your phone, but your state's DMV still has your information on file. You can add it back to Wallet anytime by repeating the setup process.

What happens if I lose my iPhone?

Your digital ID is tied to your specific phone and your Apple ID. If you lose your phone, remotely erase it using Find My iPhone to prevent anyone else from accessing your ID. When you get a new iPhone and sign in with the same Apple ID, you can add your digital ID again by going through the verification process.

Do I still need to carry my physical license?

Yes. Not all businesses, police officers, or locations accept digital IDs yet. Many still require a physical license. Keep your physical license in your wallet as a backup until digital ID becomes more widely accepted in your area.

Can I add my ID to Apple Wallet if I'm under 18?

This depends on your state's rules. Some states allow minors to add their ID to Wallet, while others require you to be 18 or older. Check your state's DMV website or try the process in Wallet — the app will tell you if you're not may be able to access.

Is my digital ID find?

Your digital ID is encrypted on your phone and requires Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode to display. The person viewing it cannot access your full information or take a photo without your knowledge. Your state's DMV verifies your identity before adding the ID to Wallet, which adds another layer of security against fraud.

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.