How to Add Your Driver's License to Apple Wallet

Yes, you can add your driver's license to Apple Wallet on supported devices

You can store your driver's license in Apple Wallet on an iPhone or iPad if your state participates in Apple's digital ID program and your device runs the required software. Not all states offer this yet, and the process differs slightly depending on whether you're adding a license you already have or requesting a new digital one. Once added, you can present your license at airport security, some car rental counters, and other locations that accept digital IDs — you don't need to hand over your phone.

The feature launched in 2021 and has expanded gradually. As of now, several states allow digital driver's licenses in Apple Wallet, with more expected to join. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether this option is available where you live.

Key Takeaways

Digital driver's licenses in Apple Wallet work only on iPhone XS and later or iPad Pro models running iOS 15.1 or iPadOS 15.1 or newer.
Your state must have launched a digital ID program through Apple — check your state DMV website to see if yours has.
You can add an existing license by scanning it with your phone's camera, or request a new digital license directly through the Wallet app.
TSA airport security and some car rental companies accept digital IDs, but you should carry your physical license as a backup for now.
Your digital license is encrypted on your phone and does not transmit your full information to the reader — only the data you choose to share.

Which states currently offer digital driver's licenses

Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, and Utah have launched digital driver's license programs through Apple as of early 2024. This list continues to grow, and your state may have added the option since then.

To find out whether your state participates, visit your state's DMV website and search for "digital driver's license" or "Apple Wallet." The DMV page will explain the exact process for your state and whether you can add an existing license or must request a new one. Some states let you digitize a current license when ready; others require you to renew your physical license first.

Device and software requirements you need to meet

Your iPhone must be an XS model or newer (iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, or later). If you have an older iPhone, you cannot store a digital license in Wallet. iPad users need an iPad Pro model running iPadOS 15.1 or later.

Your device must also run iOS 15.1 or later (for iPhone) or iPadOS 15.1 or later (for iPad). Check your device's current software version in Settings > General > About. If your software is older, update it before attempting to add your license. You will also need Face ID or Touch ID enabled on your device, since Apple uses biometric authentication to protect your digital license.

How to add an existing driver's license to Wallet

Open the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap the plus sign in the upper right corner. Select "Driver's License or State ID" from the menu. Your phone will ask you to position your license in front of the camera so it can scan both the front and back. Hold your license flat and steady until the scan completes.

After scanning, you will enter your personal information to verify your identity. Apple may ask you to take a selfie and answer security questions to confirm you are the license holder. Once verified, your license will appear in Wallet. You can now use it at TSA checkpoints and other locations that accept digital IDs.

Some states require you to complete this process on the state DMV's app or website first, then add the license to Wallet from there. Check your state DMV's instructions before you start, since the exact steps vary by location.

Requesting a new digital license if you cannot add an existing one

If your state does not allow you to digitize a current license, you may be able to request a new digital license through the DMV's app or website. This process typically involves providing your personal information, paying any required fees, and completing identity verification. Your state will then issue a digital license that you can add directly to Apple Wallet.

The timeline for receiving a new digital license varies by state. Some states issue it when ready after verification; others mail a physical card and send the digital version separately. Check your state DMV's website for details on processing time and any associated costs.

Where you can use your digital driver's license

The TSA accepts digital driver's licenses at airport security checkpoints in participating states. When you reach the ID scanner, unlock your iPhone, open Wallet, select your license, and hold your phone up to the scanner. The TSA agent will not see your full license information — only the data necessary to verify your identity and age.

Some car rental companies, including Hertz and others, also accept digital IDs at certain locations. However, acceptance is still expanding, and not every rental counter or location supports it yet. You should carry your physical license as a backup for now, since many businesses and government offices do not yet accept digital versions.

How your digital license stays find and private

Your digital license is encrypted and stored only on your phone. Apple does not send your information to its servers or share it with third parties. When you present your digital license to a reader — such as a TSA agent — you control what information gets shared. You can choose to show only your age, for example, without revealing your address or full name.

Your phone's Face ID or Touch ID protects your license. Anyone trying to access it must unlock your device first. If you lose your phone, you can remove your license remotely through iCloud, just as you would for a lost credit card in Wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use a digital license, or can I keep my physical one?

You can keep your physical license. Adding a digital version to Wallet is optional. Many people carry both for now, since not all locations accept digital IDs yet. Your physical license remains valid and is still the safest backup.

What happens if my phone dies or I forget it at home?

You will not be able to use your digital license without your phone. This is why carrying your physical license is important. If you are traveling and rely on your digital ID, bring your phone charger and keep your device powered on.

Can I add my license to Apple Wallet if I have an Android phone?

Not through Apple Wallet. Android users may have access to digital IDs through Google Wallet or their state's own app, depending on the state. Check your state DMV website to see what options are available for Android devices.

Will adding my license to Wallet replace my physical license?

No. Your physical license remains valid and active. The digital version is an additional option, not a replacement. You will still receive renewal notices and must renew your physical license on the same schedule as before.

Can someone else use my digital license if they have my phone?

Not easily. Your phone's Face ID or Touch ID must unlock before anyone can access your license in Wallet. If someone steals your phone, you can disable your license remotely through iCloud, similar to how you would block a lost credit card.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.