iPhone Driver’s Licenses Are Heading to Seven More States—Here’s What You Need to Know
Starting in early 2026, millions more Americans will be able to store their driver’s license or state ID directly in Apple Wallet—no plastic card required. Apple is expanding its digital ID program to at least seven additional U.S. states, building on its existing footprint across 13 states and Puerto Rico. The move responds to growing consumer demand for secure, contactless identity verification at airports, retail stores, and within select apps. If you’ve ever fumbled for your license at TSA or a bar, this update could streamline your daily life.
How Apple’s Digital Driver’s License Works
Apple’s digital ID system lets users securely store government-issued identification in the Wallet app on iPhone and Apple Watch. When needed—say, at a TSA checkpoint or to prove your age at a liquor store—you simply bring up your ID via Face ID or Touch ID authentication. The system uses end-to-end encryption and doesn’t share unnecessary personal data. For example, when verifying age at a store, only your birthdate and photo are transmitted—not your address or license number.
Why States Are Racing to Join Apple’s Wallet Ecosystem
Adoption isn’t just about user convenience—it’s a strategic move for states aiming to modernize legacy DMV systems. By partnering with Apple, states gain access to a secure, user-friendly digital identity platform that aligns with federal standards like the REAL ID Act. Plus, it reduces plastic waste and long lines at physical DMV offices. “Digital IDs are the future of secure, efficient identity verification,” said a spokesperson for a participating state DMV. “Apple’s infrastructure gives us confidence in both security and scale.”
The 13 States Already Using iPhone Driver’s Licenses
As of late 2025, residents in Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, Georgia, Ohio, Hawaii, California, Iowa, New Mexico, Montana, North Dakota, West Virginia, and Illinois can already add their license to Apple Wallet. Puerto Rico also supports the feature. Adoption has been strongest in states with high tech engagement—like California and Arizona—but even rural states like Montana report steady uptake, particularly among younger drivers.
Which 7 States Are Next?
While Apple hasn’t officially named all seven incoming states, sources familiar with the rollout confirm that Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Virginia, and Oregon are in advanced stages of integration. Each state must complete rigorous technical and legal alignment with Apple’s platform, including compliance with federal identity guidelines and biometric authentication protocols. Pilot testing in some of these states is already underway, with full launches expected between Q1 and Q3 of 2026.
How to Add Your License to Apple Wallet—If Your State Supports It
Setting up your digital driver’s license is straightforward. Open the Wallet app, tap the + icon, select “Driver’s License or State ID,” and follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll scan your physical license, take a selfie for facial matching, and answer a few security questions. The entire process takes about 10 minutes—and once approved (usually within 1–2 business days), your ID is ready for use. Note: You’ll still need your physical license for non-supported venues, at least for now.
Where You Can Actually Use a Digital ID Today
Right now, the most widespread real-world use is at TSA checkpoints in select U.S. airports, including Phoenix Sky Harbor, Baltimore/Washington International, and Los Angeles International. Major retailers like Walmart and select liquor stores in participating states also accept digital IDs for age verification. Additionally, third-party apps—such as banking or ride-share services—can integrate Apple’s ID verification API, though adoption remains limited outside regulated industries.
Privacy and Security: What Apple Does Differently
Unlike third-party ID apps, Apple’s digital license system stores data locally on your device, not in the cloud. When you present your ID, you manually approve each data-sharing request, and Apple never sees your information. The company also uses on-device machine learning to verify document authenticity during setup, reducing fraud risk. According to Apple’s 2025 transparency report, zero digital ID accounts have been compromised due to platform vulnerabilities—a strong endorsement of its security model.
Will Your State Ever Get an iPhone Driver’s License?
Not every state is on board—yet. Some, like New Jersey and Massachusetts, cite budget constraints or regulatory hurdles as barriers. Others remain cautious about biometric data handling. However, with federal incentives for digital identity modernization and rising public demand, holdout states may soon reconsider. “Once three or four of the largest states fully adopt it, the pressure becomes unavoidable,” predicts a digital government analyst at Brookings Institution.
What This Means for the Future of Physical IDs
While plastic licenses won’t disappear overnight, Apple’s expansion signals a tipping point. As more states join and merchants adopt the tech, carrying a physical ID may become optional for daily transactions. Experts predict that by 2030, over half of U.S. adults will rely primarily on digital credentials—with Apple and Android Wallets leading the charge. For now, it’s still wise to keep your physical ID handy, but the day of the “walletless” outing is drawing closer.
Convenience Meets Cutting-Edge Security
Apple’s push to bring iPhone driver’s licenses to seven more states isn’t just a tech upgrade—it’s a quiet revolution in how we prove who we are. With robust privacy safeguards, seamless UX, and growing real-world utility, the digital ID is poised to become as essential as Apple Pay. If you live in Texas, Florida, New York, or one of the other incoming states, keep an eye on your Wallet app in early 2026. Your next ID renewal might just be the last plastic card you ever need.
