How to add your ID to Apple Wallet

Apple Wallet driver's license feature
(Image credit: Apple)

As more states accept digital documents at TSA checkpoints, you may be wondering, "How do I add my ID to Apple Wallet?" Well, the first question you must ask is whether your region supports Apple Wallet IDs. As of this writing, only Maryland and Arizona acknowledge Apple Wallet IDs.

Once you've confirmed that your state accepts Wallet IDs, you can add your driver's license or state ID, but keep in mind that Apple Wallet requires verification from your state's motor vehicle administration. As such, before attempting to clear an airport security checkpoint, allow sufficient time for your ID to be "green lit."

How to add your driver's license or state ID to Apple Wallet

Before diving into these guidelines, make sure that your iPhone is updated to the latest version of iOS. Courtesy of the Maryland Department of Transportation, here are the step-by-step instructions on how to add your ID to Apple Wallet:

1. Open the Wallet app.

2. Tap on the plus (+) button.

Apple Wallet ID

Apple Wallet ID (Image credit: Maryland Department of Transportation)

3. Look for the "Driver's License or State ID" option and select your state. If you don't see your state, this means it's not a participant of the Apple Wallet ID program. If you do see your state (e.g., Maryland or Arizona), tap on it.

How to add ID to Apple Wallet

How to add ID to Apple Wallet (Image credit: Maryland Department of Transportation)

4. Choose whether you'd like to add your ID to your iPhone only or iPhone and Apple Watch.

How to add ID to Apple Wallet

How to add ID to Apple Wallet (Image credit: Maryland Department of Transportation)

5. Scan the front of your ID. Make sure it's placed on top of a simple dark background in a well-lit room.

Maryland Department of Transportation

How to add ID to Apple Wallet (Image credit: Maryland Department of Transportation)

6. Scan the back of the ID under the same conditions.

7. Tap "Continue."

8. You'll land on a page that says, "Additional Verification." Tap "Continue" again.

Apple Wallet ID

How to add ID to Apple Wallet (Image credit: Maryland Department of Transportation)

9. Follow the on-screen instructions to take a photo (for fraud-prevention purposes).

10. Next, tap on "Continue with Face ID," which sends your selfie and ID info to your state's issuing authority.

How to add ID to Apple Wallet

How to add ID to Apple Wallet (Image credit: Maryland Department of Transportation)

11. Tap "Done."

Once you're verified, you'll receive an Apple Wallet notification telling you that your digital document is good to go for select airport security checkpoints. Be sure to check out our in-depth guide on what it's like to clear TSA with an Apple Wallet ID.

Kimberly Gedeon

Kimberly Gedeon, holding a Master's degree in International Journalism, launched her career as a journalist for MadameNoire's business beat in 2013. She loved translating stuffy stories about the economy, personal finance and investing into digestible, easy-to-understand, entertaining stories for young women of color. During her time on the business beat, she discovered her passion for tech as she dove into articles about tech entrepreneurship, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and the latest tablets. After eight years of freelancing, dabbling in a myriad of beats, she's finally found a home at Laptop Mag that accepts her as the crypto-addicted, virtual reality-loving, investing-focused, tech-fascinated nerd she is. Woot!