Apple has officially launched Digital ID, a new feature that allows iPhone and Apple Watch users in the United States to add their U.S. passport to Apple Wallet for secure identity verification. The feature, available starting today with iOS 26.1 and watchOS 26.1, marks Apple’s most significant step yet toward making the iPhone a true replacement for the physical wallet.
At launch, Digital ID can be used at over 250 TSA checkpoints across the U.S. for domestic travel. Travelers can simply hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near an identity reader and confirm with Face ID or Touch ID. Like Apple Pay, users never need to hand over their device or unlock it. They can see exactly which pieces of information are being shared before approving the verification.
Digital ID is built on the same security and privacy framework as other Wallet features. The data is encrypted and stored on the device, meaning Apple cannot see where or when an ID is used. The company says biometric verification ensures only the owner can present the Digital ID.
Setting up the feature requires scanning the photo page and chip of a valid U.S. passport, taking a live selfie, and completing a short series of facial movements for verification. Once approved, the digital version is saved directly to Wallet. Users who do not have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license can still use Digital ID to pass through TSA checkpoints, meeting federal identification standards for air travel.
Although this new feature makes airport security more convenient, it is not yet a full passport replacement. Physical passports are still required for international travel and border crossings. Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Wallet, Jennifer Bailey, said the company’s long-term goal is to expand Digital ID’s use cases. Future updates will allow users to verify their age at venues, confirm identity online, and even use Digital ID at hotels and rental car counters.
“Since introducing the ability to add a driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet in 2022, we’ve seen how much users love having their ID right on their devices,” Bailey said. “Digital IDs brings this secure and convenient option to even more users across the country, as they can now add an ID to Wallet using information from their U.S. passport.”
The Digital ID feature is currently in public beta, with support gradually expanding as more TSA locations and partners adopt compatible readers. To use it, iPhone users need an iPhone 11 or later running iOS 26.1, while Apple Watch users must have a Series 6 or later on watchOS 26.1.
