Apple's Digital ID feature lets users use their passport on their iPhone

Apple recently launched a new Digital ID feature. This update allows US passport holders to add their passport information to Apple Wallet for easier identity verification at TSA checkpoints.

Overview of Apple's Digital ID feature

The new update lets you store a verified digital version of your US passport inside Apple Wallet. This creates a secure ID token on the device that can be used for identity checks at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports.

Apple's Digital ID feature lets users use their passport on their iPhone Picture 1

Unlike state-issued Digital IDs, this rollout applies to all US passport holders. Apple uses on-device processing, so your identity data never leaves your iPhone. It's an early step toward a future where physical IDs aren't always needed.

Device and installation requirements

Users need an iPhone XS or newer running iOS 18.1 or later to add a passport to Apple Wallet. Apple Watch Series 4 or later can also display the ID when checking. Other basic requirements include a current US passport, Face ID or Touch ID , Bluetooth turned on, and two-factor authentication associated with an Apple ID in the US.

If you're setting up Wallet for the first time, our Apple Pay setup guide explains the basics.

Add passport to Wallet

To add your passport to Apple Wallet, open the Wallet app and tap the plus sign (+). Select Driver's License or ID Cards , then select Digital ID for your passport.

Apple's Digital ID feature lets users use their passport on their iPhone Picture 2

Use your iPhone's camera to scan the photo page and hold it over the passport's NFC chip.

Apple's Digital ID feature lets users use their passport on their iPhone Picture 3

Follow the prompts to take a selfie and move your head for a quick identity check. Apple processes everything locally and deletes your face data after approval. This process takes about 10 minutes.

Apple's Digital ID feature lets users use their passport on their iPhone Picture 4

If verification fails, try again in better lighting or make sure your NFC is aligned correctly.

Using Digital ID

Once your Digital ID is ready in Apple Wallet, double-click the side button on your iPhone. Select ID, authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID, and hold your phone near a compatible reader at TSA checkpoints. Select the information you want to share, like your name or date of birth.

Apple's Digital ID feature lets users use their passport on their iPhone Picture 5

Currently, Digital ID only works with domestic flights at certain airports, but Apple is expected to soon expand support to hotels, apps, and government services.

Privacy, security and restrictions

One of the strengths of Apple's Digital ID is privacy. Your passport data is encrypted and stored only on your device, not on Apple's servers. The company says it can't tell when or where your ID is used. Plus, because the verification is based on Face ID or Touch ID, only you can access and present it.

There are a few limitations to be aware of, however. TSA acceptance varies by location, as not all checkpoints support Digital ID, and even some listed airports may have limited functionality.

This raises the question of adoption speed, so it's best to consider this a convenience feature rather than a complete replacement for physical IDs at this point.

Additionally, the move ties more personal identification functions to Apple's ecosystem, raising concerns that users will be locked into it long term. Additionally, using only one device also increases the risk if something goes wrong.

On the plus side, adding your passport to Apple Wallet simplifies TSA screening for domestic travel, improves security, and gives you more control over your data. However, keep a physical copy of your passport as a backup until more widespread support becomes available.