Ruth Haines
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is rolling out a digital identification system at TSA checkpoints in dozens of airports across the US. This system allows passengers to use a digital ID from their smartphone for identity verification instead of a physical ID. Digital IDs are currently accepted at over 30 airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and the list of participating airports is growing. Passengers can store their mobile driver's licenses or ID passes on their smartphones through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. This modernises the airport security process, providing a faster, more secure, and seamless travel experience while reducing the risk of fraudulent documents.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Digital ID compatibility | Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, state-issued apps, LA Wallet app |
| Digital ID states | Arizona, Colorado, Maryland, Georgia, Utah, Iowa, California, Louisiana, Puerto Rico |
| Airports with Digital ID | John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), 30+ airports in 14 states |
| Digital ID requirements | Smartphone, mobile driver's license, ID passes, physical ID |
| TSA PreCheck | Touchless ID, expedited airport security screening, available on Delta Air Lines |
| TSA checkpoints | Biometric cameras, facial recognition technology, digital identification system |
| TSA ID requirements | REAL ID-compliant state-issued driver's license or ID, U.S. passport, DHS trusted traveler cards |
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What You'll Learn
- Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints in 14 states and Puerto Rico
- Digital IDs are stored in mobile wallets like Apple, Google, or Samsung Wallet
- Digital IDs are more private as you only share the information required to verify your identity
- Digital IDs are faster and more secure, reducing the risk of fraudulent documents
- Digital IDs are used in TSA PreCheck's Touchless Identity Solution for select airlines
Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints in 14 states and Puerto Rico
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has expanded its digital ID acceptance program to allow travelers from 14 states and Puerto Rico to use mobile driver's licenses and state IDs at select security checkpoints. The participating states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Digital IDs are accepted at TSA checkpoints equipped with CAT-2 facial recognition technology, which verifies identity by comparing the photo embedded in the digital ID with a live photo taken at the checkpoint. The system requires travelers to tap or scan their digital ID and provide consent to share information with TSA personnel. This technology enhances passenger security and experience, as it is more secure and private than physical credentials, which can be counterfeit or fraudulent. Digital IDs also reduce points of contact for passengers, paving the way for a more seamless travel experience.
Digital IDs can be used for identity verification through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. This provides a faster and more secure travel experience while reducing the risk of fraudulent documents. However, it is important to note that all passengers must still carry a physical ID for verification as a backup. Additionally, passengers who are not comfortable with facial recognition technology can opt out and request the standard ID verification process.
The acceptance of digital IDs is part of broader REAL ID compliance efforts across the country. Starting on May 7, 2025, a state-issued driver's license or ID that is not REAL ID-compliant will no longer be accepted as a valid form of identification at airports. Passengers are encouraged to check the REAL ID compliance of their ID before traveling to ensure they have acceptable identification.
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Digital IDs are stored in mobile wallets like Apple, Google, or Samsung Wallet
Digital IDs are a convenient and secure way to verify your identity at airport security checkpoints. They are stored in mobile wallets, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet, providing easy access to your identification information when travelling.
Mobile wallets are digital applications that store your credit, debit, and gift card information, as well as other important documents like your digital ID, driver's license, state ID, or passport. This allows you to make purchases and verify your identity using just your mobile device. When adding your ID to a mobile wallet, the information is encrypted to ensure its security. You can control what information is shared, protecting your privacy.
At TSA checkpoints, you can use your digital ID stored in your mobile wallet for identity verification. TSA officers will only receive your digital identification information with your consent, and they do not copy or store your digital ID unless for limited testing purposes. This modernises the checkpoint screening process, reducing points of contact and enhancing your travel experience.
While digital IDs offer convenience and privacy, it is important to note that not all airports or merchants universally accept mobile wallets. Therefore, it is always a good idea to carry a physical form of identification, such as a state-issued driver's license or ID, as backup. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID will be required at airports, so it is essential to ensure your identification meets the necessary standards.
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Digital IDs are more private as you only share the information required to verify your identity
Digital IDs are a modern alternative to physical identification documents. They are currently being accepted at select TSA checkpoints through platforms such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet or a state-issued app.
Digital IDs are more private than physical IDs as they allow you to share only the information that is required to verify your identity. For example, if you need to verify that you are over the age of 21, a digital ID lets you prove that without needing to share your date of birth or any other personal information. This is called an "abstract claim", where less-sensitive information is attested to the verifier. This also reduces the risk of fraudulent usage of your personal information.
However, there are concerns about the privacy of digital IDs. As digital IDs are deployed faster, there is a risk that they will expand into new territories, leading to an increase in demands for IDs and the data stored in them. There are also concerns about the privacy protections in place for digital IDs, especially as they are not built primarily to give individuals greater control over their information. It is important to ensure that strong technological and policy measures are implemented to protect against potential privacy risks.
Despite these concerns, digital IDs have the potential to modernize checkpoint screening procedures, making the travel experience more seamless and secure. Passengers can opt for digital IDs to reduce physical contact and expedite their airport security screening.
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Digital IDs are faster and more secure, reducing the risk of fraudulent documents
Digital IDs are increasingly being used at airports to enhance security and speed up the identity verification process. Passengers can now use their smartphones for identity verification through digital identity solutions like mobile driver's licenses or ID passes stored in their digital wallets. This allows passengers to securely share their identity information through facial recognition technology at select TSA checkpoints.
Digital IDs also reduce the points of contact for passengers, paving the way for a more seamless and efficient travel process. For example, Delta Air Lines offers TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, which allows passengers to opt in for expedited airport security screening. Similarly, the EU's smart borders initiative uses automated processes and biometric verification, benefiting travellers with more efficient check-in and security control procedures.
The use of digital IDs at airports also helps mitigate potential fraud. With the ability to perform real-time identity verification, digital IDs can reduce the risk of fraudulent activities. Additionally, digital IDs can be used to simplify regulatory compliance, such as verifying proof of age when purchasing restricted goods.
While digital IDs offer enhanced security and convenience, there are also concerns about data privacy and the potential for hacking. To address these challenges, it is crucial to have robust data protection frameworks and decentralized digital ID systems that adhere to recognized principles for good digital security.
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Digital IDs are used in TSA PreCheck's Touchless Identity Solution for select airlines
Digital IDs are now being used at airports to enhance the security screening process and make it more efficient and secure. This is especially true for TSA PreCheck Touchless Identity Solution, which is currently available for select airlines, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.
Passengers who are enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program and are flying with participating airlines can opt into the Touchless Identity Solution program during flight check-in. This program uses facial recognition technology to identify passengers, eliminating the need for them to present a physical ID, boarding pass, or personal device with a digital ID. Instead, the traveler's live photo is matched with a stored photo from their passport or other source document. This not only speeds up the security process but also provides a more secure and private identification process.
To participate in the TSA PreCheck Touchless Identity Solution, travelers must have a digital ID, which can be set up through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. The setup process typically involves verifying one's identity with a U.S. passport or other accepted forms of identification. It is important to note that while digital IDs are used for identification, physical IDs are still required as a backup and may be requested by TSA officers.
The use of digital IDs and facial recognition technology offers several benefits. Firstly, it reduces the points of contact for passengers, providing a more seamless and hygienic travel experience. Secondly, it enhances security by reducing the risk of fraudulent documents. Digital IDs allow TSA officers to view only the information necessary to verify the passenger's identity, protecting the privacy of personal information. Additionally, TSA is committed to protecting passenger privacy by deleting photos and personal data collected during the facial recognition process once the passenger's identity has been verified.
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Frequently asked questions
A digital ID is a mobile driver's license or ID pass stored on your smartphone through platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet, or a state-issued app. It allows you to verify your identity at TSA checkpoints without presenting a physical ID.
To set up a digital ID, you must follow the setup instructions provided by your device wallet, app, or airline. For example, if you are using Google Wallet, open the app and select 'Add to Wallet'. Then, follow the instructions to verify your identity with your U.S. passport. Once verified, you will receive a confirmation notification, and you can access your ID pass in Google Wallet.
The acceptance of digital IDs varies by state and airport. Currently, 14 states accept digital IDs, and they can be used at over 30 airports, including John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). However, it's important to check the latest information before your travel, as the list of acceptable IDs is subject to change without notice.
