Ruth Haines
The use of digital IDs on mobile phones is becoming more common at airports, with TSA checkpoints at over 250 airports now accepting digital IDs. However, this is currently limited to US airports and only if the digital ID was issued in one of eight states. TSA PreCheck Touchless ID uses facial recognition technology to enhance the security screening process, providing a faster and more efficient identity verification method. This technology is voluntary, and passengers can choose to opt-out and use the standard ID verification process. To use a digital ID, passengers must add their state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to their phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or their phone's digital wallet.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of airports accepting digital IDs | 27 |
| Number of states issuing TSA-compatible IDs | 8 |
| Number of airports with TSA PreCheck Touchless ID | 7 |
| Platforms for digital IDs | Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, state-issued app |
| TSA PreCheck Touchless ID requirements | Store passport information and TSA PreCheck Known Traveler Number in SkyMiles profile |
| TSA digital ID requirements | Acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or ID card |
| TSA digital ID benefits | Faster, more secure, reduces risk of fraudulent documents |
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What You'll Learn
- A digital ID is accepted at most airports, including in South Africa
- A digital copy of a birth certificate is accepted for travellers under 18
- A digital boarding pass is required to be shown at the airport security gate
- TSA-compliant IDs are required for domestic US flights
- A physical passport is required for international travel
A digital ID is accepted at most airports, including in South Africa
A digital ID is a convenient option for travellers going through security. It is more secure than physical credentials, which can be counterfeited or fraudulently obtained. Digital IDs also offer more privacy, as only the information necessary to verify your identity is shared.
In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is currently accepting digital IDs at over 250 airports, including 27 across the country and one in Puerto Rico. To use a digital ID at a TSA checkpoint, your flight must be departing from an airport where the agency's Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2) is available. You would scan your mobile ID with the CAT-2 reader to validate your identity. This technology uses facial recognition to compare a real-time picture of you with your digital ID.
South Africa is also working towards a digital ID system. The country has introduced smart ID cards, which are based on secure embedded software and contactless technology. The South African government plans to issue 2.5 million smart ID cards in 2025 and aims to have a fully functional digital ID system by the 2029 national elections. This system could be used for various purposes, including voter verification and border management.
While it is not yet clear if South African airports will accept digital IDs, the country's progress towards a digital ID system suggests that this may be a possibility in the future. It is recommended to check with specific airports in South Africa to confirm their accepted forms of identification.
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A digital copy of a birth certificate is accepted for travellers under 18
In the context of air travel, a digital ID refers to an electronic representation of personally identifying information (PII) that can be used to verify one's identity. This can be particularly useful at airports, streamlining the security screening process and enhancing security. Digital IDs can be stored on mobile devices and read electronically through secure transactions.
In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits the use of digital IDs at over 250 airports, including in Puerto Rico. However, it's important to note that not all digital driver's licenses are compatible with TSA technology. Only certain states issue IDs that are interoperable with their systems. To use a digital ID at TSA checkpoints, individuals must add their eligible state-issued driver's license or identification card to their phones using a TSA-approved app or their phone's digital wallet, following the specific setup instructions provided.
In the context of South African Airways, the requirements for identification are different. When checking in and boarding, passengers may be profiled for immigration purposes. This may involve providing evidence of confirmed accommodation, health documents, sufficient funds, and valid travel tickets. As proof of identification, travellers can use their valid RSA Identity Document or Passport for international travel. For South African children using South African passports, carrying a birth certificate is not necessary. However, for travellers under 18 who are not South African citizens, a valid passport and an unabridged birth certificate or equivalent parentage document are typically required. A digital copy of the birth certificate is accepted, as long as it is not older than three months. This is in line with South African regulations, which specify that digital copies of birth certificates are accepted for minors but not for adults.
It's worth noting that while digital IDs offer enhanced security and convenience, they are not yet universally accepted. It is always advisable to carry a physical form of identification as a backup, especially when travelling internationally, to ensure compliance with varying requirements.
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A digital boarding pass is required to be shown at the airport security gate
At the airport, you can show your digital boarding pass to security staff at the departure gates for scanning. This is a paperless, contactless, and efficient way of verifying your identity. It is also faster and more secure, as it uses facial recognition technology to compare your live image with the image on your digital ID.
To use a digital ID at an airport, you must first ensure your ID is compatible with the technology at the airport. You can do this by checking the airport's website or your airline's website for guidance. Your digital ID must be stored on your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet.
It is important to note that not all airports or states currently accept digital IDs. In the U.S., digital IDs are currently accepted at over 250 airports, including 27 across the country and one in Puerto Rico. However, only seven states, including Arizona and Louisiana, issue IDs that are interoperable with TSA technology. Outside of the U.S., the acceptance of digital IDs may vary, so it is essential to check before assuming this is an option.
In addition to a digital boarding pass, you may also need to provide proof of identification, such as a valid passport or driver's license, depending on the airport and airline requirements.
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TSA-compliant IDs are required for domestic US flights
From May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will not be accepted at airports. Passengers will need to present an acceptable alternative form of ID, such as a passport, or a state-issued REAL ID. Passengers without REAL ID-compliant identification may be directed to a separate area for additional screening.
Digital IDs, such as mobile driver's licenses, are now accepted at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports, including 27 across the country and one in Puerto Rico. However, not all digital driver's licenses are compliant with TSA technology. Only seven states, including Arizona and Louisiana, currently issue IDs that work with TSA technology. To use a digital driver's license, it must be added to a phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or a phone's digital wallet, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet.
Passengers should note that TSA's use of facial recognition technology is voluntary. If a traveller does not wish to participate, they can inform a TSA officer, who will use the standard ID verification process. All passengers must still carry a compliant physical ID for verification.
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A physical passport is required for international travel
While digital IDs are becoming more common, a physical passport is still required for international travel. This is true even when checking in online or at self-service kiosks. For example, South African Airways requires travellers to provide proof of identification, such as a passport, before issuing a boarding pass.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States is currently accepting digital driver's licenses at over 250 airports, but passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification. The TSA's PreCheck Touchless ID program uses facial recognition technology to verify the identity of travellers, but participation is voluntary, and travellers can opt-out. Additionally, the TSA posts signs at checkpoints that use facial recognition technology, and travellers' rights to decline a photo are highlighted.
Digital IDs are becoming more widely accepted as a form of identification for air travel. Nearly a dozen states in the US now issue digital driver's licenses or mobile IDs, and seven of those states issue IDs that are interoperable with TSA technology. In March 2022, Arizona became the first state to deploy a new technology that allows passengers to use their state-issued mobile driver's license or mobile identification card in Apple Wallet to verify their identity for airport security screening purposes.
However, it's important to note that not all digital IDs are created equal. The TSA's website states that not any digital driver's license will work; it must be compliant with their technology. This means that simply storing a mobile version of your physical driver's license in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet is not enough. To use a digital ID at TSA checkpoints, travellers must add their acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to their phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or their phone's digital wallet. Therefore, it's crucial to check the TSA's list of acceptable IDs before travelling to ensure you have the proper documentation.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can show your ID on your phone at TSA checkpoints at more than 250 airports. However, it must be compliant with TSA technology. You can add your ID to your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet.
Once you've added your ID to your phone, you can present it at airport security checkpoints by tapping your device at the Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2) reader. You will then be shown which information is requested by the TSA, to which you can consent through Face ID or Touch ID.
The TSA will typically request your legal name, date of birth, sex, Real ID status, and the issue and expiration date of your ID.
While you can use your digital ID at many airports, it is recommended that you still carry an acceptable compliant physical ID for verification.
If you do not have acceptable identification, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.
