Jazmin Li
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the US accepts digital IDs at TSA checkpoints in over 250 airports. Passengers can use a TSA-approved digital ID app or their phone's digital wallet to display their state-issued driver's license or identification card. This process is more secure than physical credentials, as it prevents counterfeiting and fraud. However, passengers must consent to sharing their digital identification information with the TSA, and they have the right to decline a photo or the use of facial recognition technology. While digital IDs are increasingly accepted, it's important to check the specific requirements of your departure airport and the validity of your ID before travelling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of airports that accept digital IDs | 250+ |
| Number of states that accept digital IDs | 20+ |
| Number of airports that accept digital IDs in states that don't issue them | 1 (Puerto Rico) |
| Number of states that issue digital IDs | 8 |
| States that issue digital IDs | Louisiana |
| Apps that can be used to store digital IDs | TSA-approved digital ID app, Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, LA Wallet |
| Digital ID readers | CAT-2 readers |
| Alternative forms of ID | Passport |
| Age requirement for IDs | 18+ |
| Acceptable forms of ID | REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses, state photo identity cards, state-issued Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), Enhanced ID (EID) |
| Unacceptable forms of ID | Temporary driver's license |
| TSA PreCheck Touchless ID airports | ATL (Atlanta), DTW (Detroit), LAX (Los Angeles), LGA (New York City), JFK (New York City), SLC (Salt Lake City), DCA (Washington, D.C.) |
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What You'll Learn
- Digital IDs are more secure than physical credentials, which can be counterfeit or fraudulent
- Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints at 27 airports across the US and Puerto Rico
- Passengers must consent to TSA accessing their digital ID information
- Passengers must add their ID to their phone using a TSA-approved app or their phone's digital wallet
- TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is an expanded pilot program in select airports
Digital IDs are more secure than physical credentials, which can be counterfeit or fraudulent
The use of digital IDs is becoming more prevalent, with over 250 airports now accepting them as a form of identification. This is a significant increase from the initial 2 dozen airports that implemented this technology. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) uses Credential Authentication Technology (CAT-2) readers to scan digital IDs, which are available in mobile wallets such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or through state-issued apps. This technology enhances security by automating the ID and boarding pass verification process, making it more efficient and secure.
Digital IDs are considered more secure than physical credentials, which are more susceptible to counterfeiting and fraud. With physical IDs, there is a risk of theft or loss, and even forgery with advanced technology, which can lead to identity theft and misuse. Digital IDs, on the other hand, are more challenging to counterfeit due to the encryption and security measures inherent in digital wallet technology. Additionally, digital IDs offer more privacy, as you only share the information necessary for identity verification, reducing the risk of data theft.
The implementation of digital IDs simplifies the identification process and provides a seamless travel experience. Passengers can use their smartphones to store their IDs, eliminating the need to carry physical documents. This also reduces the points of contact during the screening process, which is particularly beneficial in the context of public health concerns. Furthermore, digital IDs can be instantly validated, making the identity verification process faster and more efficient.
However, it is important to note that the adoption of digital IDs is not yet universal. While they are accepted at many airports, it is still necessary to carry a physical ID as a backup, as not all states or countries have implemented this technology. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential misuse of personal data and the risk of smartphone theft, which could grant access to sensitive information. Nevertheless, the TSA assures passengers that they control access to their digital IDs, and the TSA does not copy or store the IDs unless in a limited testing environment for evaluating facial recognition technology accuracy.
The convenience and security offered by digital IDs make them a compelling alternative to traditional physical credentials. As technology advances, it is likely that digital IDs will become more widely accepted and trusted, providing a more modern and efficient approach to identity verification.
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Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints at 27 airports across the US and Puerto Rico
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been rolling out its digital identification system, which allows travellers to show a digital ID at TSA checkpoints. This system is currently available at 27 airports across the US and Puerto Rico, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).
Digital IDs are considered more secure than physical IDs, which can be counterfeited or fraudulently used. They also streamline the security process, as they can be used in place of a physical ID and boarding pass. To use a digital ID, travellers must download a TSA-approved digital ID app or store their ID in their phone's digital wallet. At the TSA checkpoint, the traveller scans their Digital ID QR code or taps their mobile device on the digital ID reader.
The TSA uses facial recognition technology to verify the identity of travellers. This is done on a voluntary basis, with travellers able to decline the photo and request a standard ID verification process. The TSA publishes Privacy Impact Assessments to notify the public about facial recognition technology and privacy protections. The TSA does not store travellers' digital IDs or photos, and this information is deleted after identity verification.
It's important to note that not all digital driver's licenses are compatible with TSA technology. The TSA website provides information on which states' digital IDs are accepted and how to set up a digital ID before travelling. While digital IDs are convenient, travellers are advised to always carry a physical ID as a backup in case their digital ID cannot be verified.
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Passengers must consent to TSA accessing their digital ID information
Digital IDs are available at over 250 airports. Passengers can 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. They must follow the set-up instructions from their device wallet or app before their trip to ensure it is ready to present at TSA checkpoints. Passengers can then scan their Digital ID QR code or tap their mobile device on the digital ID reader.
Passengers can decline the optional photo by notifying the TSA officer before presenting their ID. The TSA uses facial recognition technology to verify the identity of travellers on a voluntary basis. The traveller's right to decline a photo is highlighted on signs at checkpoints, on passenger-facing screens, in officer advisements, and on TSA.gov. Passengers who do not wish to participate in facial recognition technology can inform the TSA officer, who will use the standard ID verification process.
Digital IDs are more secure than physical credentials, which can be counterfeit or fraudulent. They are also more private because passengers only share the information the TSA needs to verify their identity. The acceptance of digital IDs has the potential to modernise checkpoint screening procedures and technologies, reducing points of contact for passengers and paving the way for a more seamless travel experience.
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Passengers must add their ID to their phone using a TSA-approved app or their phone's digital wallet
Passengers can now use their mobile phones to show ID at airport security checkpoints. This is possible through TSA-approved apps or the digital wallet on your phone. This digital identification process is currently available at over 250 airports.
To use a Digital ID, passengers must first add their eligible driver's license or state-issued identification card to their phones. This can be done through a TSA-approved app or by adding it to their phone's digital wallet. It is important to follow the set-up instructions provided by the chosen app or wallet to ensure it is ready for presentation at TSA checkpoints.
Passengers can then scan their Digital ID QR code or tap their mobile device on the digital ID reader. The TSA officer will use biometric cameras to assist with identity verification. Passengers can choose to decline the optional photo by notifying the officer before presenting their ID. It is important to note that TSA does not copy or store the digital ID unless in a limited testing environment for evaluating facial recognition technology.
Currently, TSA accepts digital IDs at 27 airports across the country, including one in Puerto Rico. However, for a digital driver's license to be accepted, it must be issued by one of the eight states that have adopted this technology. Louisiana recently became the eighth state to accept mobile driver's licenses at TSA checkpoints, allowing travelers to use the LA Wallet app for identity verification.
It is worth noting that TSA has the right to decline the use of digital IDs, and passengers may be asked to provide a physical ID and boarding pass. As of May 7, 2025, state-issued driver's licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Passengers must ensure they have acceptable and compliant identification to avoid travel delays and additional screening measures.
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TSA PreCheck Touchless ID is an expanded pilot program in select airports
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced a new programme, TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, which uses facial recognition technology to verify the identity of travellers. This programme is currently in the pilot phase and is available at select airports and with select airlines.
TSA PreCheck Touchless ID eliminates the need for travellers to present a physical ID card or passport, or a digital ID on their phone. Instead, travellers opting in for Touchless ID allow TSA to match their live photo with a stored photo from a passport or other source document. This makes the security screening process faster and more efficient. Travellers opting for Touchless ID must carry a physical ID as a backup and present it if asked by a TSA officer.
To use Touchless ID, you must be a TSA PreCheck member and opt in to participate. You can opt in on your profile with an airline or when you check in online. You must ensure that your information with the airline is up to date, including your Known Traveller Number and passport details. This way, the federal government will be able to match your photo on the day of travel with other photos you've provided, such as from your passport.
The TSA PreCheck Touchless ID programme is available at the following airports:
- Atlanta: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Chicago: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Detroit: Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
- Las Vegas: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Los Angeles: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- New York City: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
- Portland: Portland International Airport (PDX)
- Salt Lake City: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
The programme is available with the following airlines:
- American Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- United Airlines
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Frequently asked questions
A digital ID is a mobile driver's license that can be stored on your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet. It is more secure than physical credentials, which can be counterfeit or fraudulent.
Digital IDs can be used at TSA checkpoints at over 250 airports in the US, including Puerto Rico. However, it must be compliant with TSA technology.
To set up a digital ID, you need to add your acceptable state-issued eligible driver's license or identification card to your phone using a TSA-approved digital ID app or your phone's digital wallet. Be sure to follow the setup instructions provided by your device wallet or app.
