- Apple’s new Digital ID allows travelers to store their passports within Apple Wallet.
- The TSA will accept digital passports from iPhones and Apple Watches, but only on domestic flights.
- The new feature is not a replacement for a passport. You will still be required to show your physical passport to fly internationally.
Domestic travel Certain smartphone users in the U.S. will soon be able to enjoy a more convenient experience.
Apple has announced that a new digital ID will be soon available for Apple Wallet customers on iOS. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), instead of accepting a physical ID, will accept a digital ID for boarding domestic flight. Apple announced this new feature on June 9 at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference.
The digital ID will allow many Apple watch and smartphone users to fly domestically more easily. However, it is not a substitute for a passport and only works for domestic flights. The TSA will not accept it for international flights. Travelers flying internationally will still need to present their passports in order to board flights.
Apple’s website says: “When you present your ID or license at a TSA Checkpoint, you must authenticate using the Face ID or Touch ID that is associated with it before your phone displays your information to an identity reader.” There may be other requirements depending on where you show your ID or license. When you present your ID or license to the TSA for example, their identity scanner captures your picture and compares it with the image from your ID or license in Apple Wallet.”
There are exceptions when it comes to digital ID. Apple Wallet requires iOS 16.5 or newer and iPhone 8 or later to use the ID. In California the ID requires an iPhone XS with iOS 17.5 and above. Puerto Rico requires the same iPhone XS or newer model but iOS 18.1 is required.
It is important that travelers confirm their device’s support for digital ID before using it at the airport.
Across U.S. Airports, new Real ID The new regulations came into force on May 7. According to the new rules, domestic flight passengers must use state-issued IDs or drivers’ licenses that are more recent to board their flights. (Domestic passengers can also board their flights using passports.) Apple Digital ID may offer an alternative option for domestic travelers who want to be able to show multiple IDs when flying.
