Domestic U.S. flights to recognize Apple Wallet digital IDs by late 2025.
Digital ID Revolution
Starting this fall, Apple enthusiasts can ditch their physical IDs for a sleek, paperless alternative—the Digital ID—on domestic US flights [1][2]. This game-changing feature, introduced by Apple on June 9, 2025, will let users store their state-issued IDs or passports on their Apple Wallet [3].
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will welcome the Digital ID for domestic flights, making it accessible from the brand-new iPhone operating system [4]. However, international travelers will still require physical passports. Keep in mind that it's essential to ensure your device can handle the Digital ID before relying on it for travel [4][5].
Notably, the service primarily requires an iPhone 8 or later with iOS 16.5 or above [4]. In California, the Digital ID can only work with iPhone XS models or later, featuring iOS 17.5 or higher [5]. Similarly, for Puerto Rico, users need iOS 18.1 or beyond [5].
Explaining the functionality, Apple states that users will have to authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID associated with their ID before Apple Wallet presents their information to the TSA identity readers [2][4]. The TSA's identity reader may also capture the user's image for comparison with the digital ID [2].
Air travel regulations in the US are evolving swiftly. Recently, new Real ID regulations went into effect in early May 2025, requiring standardized state-issue IDs (or driving licenses) for domestic flights [4]. Additionally, upcoming updates to Apple's digital boarding pass apps are set to include terminal mapping assistance and an AirTag luggage tracking feature [2].
Other wallet solutions like Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet are similarly accepted by the TSA, but they recommend carrying a physical ID as a backup [4].
How It Works
- Add your state ID or U.S. passport to Apple Wallet, in a Real ID-compliant, private, and seamless process [2][3].
- Verify your identity by using your Face ID or Touch ID on the associated Apple device at the TSA checkpoint [2][4].
- Your digital ID is presented to the TSA's identity reader for verification [2].
- The TSA's identity reader may capture your image to compare it with the stored photo in your digital ID for additional verification [2].
Device Requirements
- Device Compatibility: Digital ID functionality demands an iPhone (or Apple Watch) operating iOS 26 or higher [2][3].
- State and Region Support:
- State IDs: As of mid-2025, digital state IDs (mobile driver’s licenses) are available for residents of certain states, with adoption expanding.
- Digital Passports: By late 2025, U.S. passport holders can add their digital passports to Apple Wallet for use at major California airports, with a national rollout expected to continue [3][2].
Additional Notes
- Security: Users must use Face ID or Touch ID to present their digital ID, ensuring privacy and security [2][4].
- Expansion: The program is rolling out first in California and select other states, with plans to expand nationwide [3][2].
- Digital Boarding Passes: Apple is also updating its digital boarding pass features to include terminal mapping and luggage tracking with AirTags [2].
- As the Digital ID Revolution unfolds, traveling without physical IDs becomes a reality for Apple users, as they can store state-issued IDs or passports on their Apple Wallet for domestic flights.
- With the integration of technology into travel, not only can one use the Digital ID for flights, but the future also holds advancements such as terminal mapping and luggage tracking with AirTags in Apple's digital boarding pass apps.
