Arizona becomes first state where residents can add driver’s license to Apple Wallet

PHOENIX — Arizona on Wednesday became the first state where residents can add their driver’s license or other state identification to their Apple Wallet to use for verification at airport security checkpoints.

The feature is initially available for customers with TSA Pre Check at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, with more customer capabilities coming soon, the airport said in a press release.

Users who tap their iPhone or Apple Watch at the identity reader will have requested information pop up for passage through security.

“Phoenix embraces innovation, and this new technology promises to improve passengers’ experience while ensuring vital security,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in the release. “We are proud to partner with Apple in being an early-adopter of this modernization.”

The technology will be available for those with an iPhone 8 or later running iOS 15.4 and users with an Apple Watch Series 4 or later running at least watchOS 8.4.

A scan of the physical driver’s license or state ID and a picture of the person is required as part of the process and will be securely provided to the issuing state for verification.

Users will also be required to complete a series of facial and head movements during the setup process as an additional security step.

The identification cards are added to the Wallet once verified by the issuing state.

Colorado, Hawaii, Mississippi, Ohio and Puerto Rico are expected to roll out the technology soon.

“We expect Phoenix to be the first of many airports this year to feature this innovation as TSA continues to enable a more efficient checkpoint experience for passengers,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said in the release.

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