Sachin Walls
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts digital IDs for identity verification at select TSA checkpoints through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. Digital IDs are also used in TSA PreCheck's Touchless Identity Solution to verify travelers when they check bags and pass through TSA PreCheck on United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines at participating airports. As of February 2025, travelers with digital IDs from 14 states and Puerto Rico can use their IDs at airports with CAT-2 technology that biometrically scans travelers' faces. However, it is important to note that most airports do not accept digital IDs yet, and passengers are still required to carry a physical ID for verification.
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What You'll Learn
- Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints through Apple, Google, and Samsung Wallets, or state-issued apps
- Digital IDs are also accepted by Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines
- The TSA uses Credential Authentication Technology to biometrically scan travelers
- Digital IDs are REAL ID-compliant and meet the Minimum Standards for Driver's Licenses
- Most airports do not accept digital IDs yet, but some have the required equipment
Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints through Apple, Google, and Samsung Wallets, or state-issued apps
As of February 2025, digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints through Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or state-issued apps. This means that travelers with digital IDs from certain states and Puerto Rico can use their IDs at airports with CAT-2 technology that biometrically scan travelers' faces to pass through TSA checkpoints. Currently, digital IDs can be used at select airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
Digital IDs are also used in TSA PreCheck's Touchless Identity Solution, which is available on Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines at participating airports. This allows travelers to verify their identities when checking bags and passing through security without having to present a physical ID. However, it is important to note that not all airports accept digital IDs, and most still require a physical ID for verification.
To use a digital ID at TSA checkpoints, individuals must first ensure that their information has been successfully verified. They will then receive a confirmation notification that their ID pass has been created and can be accessed through their chosen platform, such as Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. It is important to follow the setup instructions provided by the device wallet, app, or airline before traveling to ensure a smooth process at TSA checkpoints.
When using a digital ID, TSA officers will use biometric cameras to assist with identity verification. This process provides a faster, more secure travel experience while reducing the risk of fraudulent documents. However, passengers must still carry a physical ID as a backup and can decline to have their photo taken. The photo and personal data are deleted after identity verification, and the information is not used for law enforcement or shared with other entities.
It is worth noting that digital IDs may be issued by non-governmental entities, and when enforcement begins for REAL ID, the TSA will accept digital IDs that comply with the Minimum Standards for Driver's Licenses and Identification Cards. This ensures that passengers' privacy is protected and that they have control over their digital ID information.
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Digital IDs are also accepted by Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines
Digital IDs are now accepted at select TSA checkpoints, including TSA PreCheck Touchless ID at select airports. This means that passengers can use their smartphones for identity verification with digital identity solutions like mobile driver's licenses or ID passes. This is facilitated by platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app.
Digital IDs are also accepted by Delta Air Lines, which offers TSA PreCheck Touchless ID for expedited airport security screening. Delta Digital ID allows customers to check bags and move through security without showing a physical government ID or paper boarding pass. This is an optional program that customers can enrol in via their SkyMiles profile on Delta.com or the Fly Delta app. Once enrolled, customers can look for the green "Delta Digital ID" badge at dedicated bag drop stations and security lines.
United Airlines and American Airlines also accept digital IDs. United Airlines offers a similar service to Delta Air Lines, allowing customers to use their digital IDs for bag drop and security lane access. American Airlines accepts digital IDs for bag drop and provides access to the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID lane at security.
It is important to note that while digital IDs are accepted at these airlines, passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification as a backup. The use of digital IDs is expected to provide a faster, more secure travel experience while reducing the risk of fraudulent documents.
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The TSA uses Credential Authentication Technology to biometrically scan travelers
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) uses Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) to enhance security and improve the travel experience. CAT is a second-generation technology (CAT-2) that assists Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) in verifying the authenticity of a traveler's ID credentials, flight status, and vetting status. This technology is used in conjunction with facial recognition technology to ensure the person pictured on the identification document is the same person at the checkpoint.
CAT units are linked electronically to the Secure Flight database, which confirms travelers' flight details and ticket information. When a traveler provides their photo ID to a TSA officer, the officer inserts it into the CAT unit, where the ID is scanned and analyzed. This process does not eliminate the requirement for passengers to check in with their airline and present a boarding pass before boarding.
CAT-2 technology offers travelers four options for presenting their identification: tapping or scanning a digital ID, or showing a physical driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport. Digital IDs are stored on mobile devices and can be accessed through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. They provide enhanced security and privacy by allowing travelers to share only the information necessary for identity verification, reducing the risk of fraudulent documents.
The use of CAT and facial recognition technology is voluntary, and travelers can decline to have their photo taken without consequence. TSA is committed to protecting traveler privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties and ensures that photos and personal data are deleted after identity verification. Signage at CAT camera locations informs travelers that participation is optional, and TSOs are required to show each traveler respect and protect their privacy.
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Digital IDs are REAL ID-compliant and meet the Minimum Standards for Driver's Licenses
Digital IDs are now accepted at select TSA checkpoints, including at some airports, through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. TSA officers use biometric cameras to assist them with identity verification, and passengers control access to and use of their digital IDs. This means that the TSA does not copy or store digital IDs unless in a limited testing environment for the evaluation of facial recognition technology.
To be REAL ID-compliant, a state-issued driver's license or identification card must meet the minimum standards set by the REAL ID Act. These standards include requiring states to recertify their compliance with the Act every three years and ensuring that the license or card includes the REAL ID-compliant star marking. This star marking indicates that the ID is REAL ID-compliant and can be used for domestic air travel and access to federal facilities.
The REAL ID Act also allows for certain categories of non-U.S. citizens in a "temporary lawful status" to obtain a temporary REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card. This includes individuals who are nonimmigrants, have a pending application for asylum, or have approved deferred action, among other categories. Additionally, the REAL ID regulatory standards recognize that some individuals may wear head coverings for religious or other reasons in their digital photographs.
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Most airports do not accept digital IDs yet, but some have the required equipment
As of February 2025, digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints at select airports. These include John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and other airports with CAT-2 technology that biometrically scan travelers' faces. Digital IDs are also used in TSA PreCheck's Touchless Identity Solution, which is available for Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines customers with TSA PreCheck for expedited airport security screening.
However, it is important to note that most airports do not currently accept digital IDs. While a few airports have the required equipment, the majority do not. As of June 2024, it was reported that it is still possible to fly without a physical ID, but additional screening will be required. It is recommended to carry at least two forms of identification with your name on them, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, credit or debit card, or any other official document.
To use a digital ID at TSA checkpoints, individuals must first ensure that their state offers digital IDs and that the airport they are travelling through accepts them. As of February 2025, 14 states and Puerto Rico offer digital IDs that can be used at participating airports. These states include Arizona, California, Colorado, and Georgia, where digital IDs are available on platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, and state-issued apps.
It is worth noting that even with the availability of digital IDs, all passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification. The use of digital IDs provides a faster, more secure travel experience while reducing the risk of fraudulent documents. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) uses biometric cameras for identity verification, and individuals have the right to decline a photo, which is optional. The TSA also ensures that personal data is deleted after identity verification and is not used for law enforcement or shared with other entities.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, digital IDs are accepted at select airports and TSA checkpoints.
You can get your digital ID through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app.
For iPhone users, open the Wallet app and tap the "+" button. Then, select "Driver's License or State ID" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Yes, it is recommended to carry a physical ID for verification as some airports may not have the necessary equipment to scan digital IDs.
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