iPhone Users Can Now Store Their US Passport in Apple Wallet

Just in time for the busy holiday travel season, iPhone users now have a new travel upgrade. Apple has rolled out a feature that lets users add their U.S. passport details to their Apple Wallet. This new update is part of Apple’s growing “Digital ID” system, which is shaping the future of travel tech and mobile identity.

Apple introduced this system on Wednesday. The feature allows travelers to store their passport information securely in the Wallet app. It can be scanned at TSA readers at airports, making the identity check process faster and smoother during domestic travel.

Apple said that Digital ID acceptance will start in beta. It will appear first at TSA checkpoints in more than 250 U.S. airports. These checkpoints will use the Digital ID for in-person identity verification during domestic flights.

However, the company also shared an important warning. The Digital ID does not replace your physical passport. It cannot be used for international flights, border checks, or global travel. Travelers still need to carry a physical passport for international trips.

Apple already supports digital driver’s licenses and state IDs. People in 12 states and Puerto Rico can add these IDs to Apple Wallet. TSA already accepts some version of mobile IDs in at least 16 states and Puerto Rico.

According to TSA, this new feature helps travelers move faster. “You can breeze through more than 250 TSA checkpoints faster and more securely than ever before,” the agency states on its website. This highlights TSA’s push toward smart travel systems and digital transformation.

Below is a simple guide on how to set up your passport in Apple Wallet.

Setup Guide

Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
Tap the plus (+) icon at the top.
Choose Digital ID from the menu. If you don’t see it, try searching for “Digital ID” inside the app.

Next, grab your physical U.S. passport. Follow the on-screen steps. Your iPhone will guide you through the process.

You will scan the passport photo page with your phone camera. After that, place your iPhone on top of the embedded chip located inside the passport’s back page. This step lets the device authenticate official passport data.

After scanning, you need to verify your identity. Apple will ask you to take a selfie. You will also perform simple face and head movements, like turning your head or closing your eyes. This helps confirm that the Digital ID belongs to you.

Once these steps are complete, your Digital ID will appear in the Wallet app.

How to Use Your Digital Passport at TSA

Using your Digital ID works just like using Apple Wallet for payments.

Double-click your iPhone’s side button. This opens your wallet. From the stack of cards, choose your digital ID.

When you reach the TSA kiosk, hold your phone or Apple Watch up to the reader. The machine will scan your information.

The kiosk will also take your photo. After that, your iPhone will show you what information TSA is requesting. This usually includes your name and date of birth.

To confirm the request, you will authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID. This gives you full control over what data is shared.

What About Security?

Apple says privacy and digital security remain top priorities. Your passport information is encrypted and stored only on your device. Apple cannot see when you use your Digital ID or what information you shared.

Face or fingerprint verification ensures that only the owner of the device can release ID details.

Also, you do not need to unlock your phone or hand it to an officer. The entire process happens on your own device. This helps protect your privacy and keeps your personal data secure.

Where Are Mobile IDs Accepted?

More than a dozen U.S. states accept some type of mobile ID at airport checkpoints.

These include:

Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia, plus Puerto Rico.

This list continues to grow as TSA expands its digital identity program.

FAQs

1. Can I use Apple’s Digital ID for international flights?

No. The Digital ID does not replace your physical passport for international travel. You must carry your physical passport when leaving or entering the country.

2. Is my passport information safe in Apple Wallet?

Yes. Apple encrypts your passport data and stores it locally on your device. Apple cannot see or track when or where you use your Digital ID.

3. Do all airports accept digital ID?

Not yet. TSA is rolling out the feature to more than 250 U.S. airports, but acceptance may vary by location.

4. Do I still need my physical passport for domestic travel?

You should keep it as a backup, but for domestic TSA checkpoints that support Digital ID, the digital version can be used for identity verification.

5. Can I add multiple IDs to Apple Wallet?

Yes. Users can add their passport details, driver’s licenses, and state IDs where supported. Availability depends on state regulations and TSA adoption.