Apple Wallet is set to become even more versatile with the addition of California driver's licenses and state IDs. This expansion follows the successful implementation of similar features in several other states, bringing Apple one step closer to a comprehensive digital wallet solution.

Digital IDs in Apple Wallet Rolls Out in California

Just days ago, speculation surrounded the possibility of California joining the growing list of states supporting digital IDs in Apple Wallet. Now, Apple has confirmed that residents of the Golden State will indeed have this option, enabling them to present their IDs at select TSA security checkpoints, businesses, and within certain apps to verify age or identity.

This feature is designed to offer convenience without compromising security. By leveraging the advanced privacy and security features of iPhones and Apple Watches, Apple Wallet ensures that users' personal information is protected at all times.

"We're excited to be working with the state of California to bring IDs in Apple Wallet to Apple's home state soon, and provide residents with an easy, secure, and private way to present their California driver's license and state ID in person and in app using Apple Wallet,"  Jennifer Bailey, Apple's vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet said.

Related Article: Apple Releases iOS 17.6.1 to Fix Advanced Data Protection Bug 

How Digital IDs in Apple Wallet Work

Adding an ID to Apple Wallet is a straightforward process. Users will scan their physical driver's license or state ID, which will then be verified by the state-issuing authority. Importantly, the authority only receives the information necessary to approve or deny the addition of the ID, minimizing the exposure of personal data.

When presenting an ID, users only share the information required for the transaction. For instance, if an ID is requested to verify age, only the birthdate will be displayed. This selective sharing of information is further secured by requiring users to review and authorize the data using Face ID or Touch ID before it is transmitted.

There is no need to unlock the device, show the full screen, or hand over the device itself, adding another layer of protection.

Uncompromised Security and Privacy

According to Phone Arena, Apple has taken extensive measures to ensure the security and privacy of users' ID information. All data is encrypted and stored directly on the user's device, meaning that neither Apple nor the state-issuing authority can access the information unless the user decides to present it. Moreover, the Cupertino firm does not retain any details about when, where, or with whom the ID was presented, ensuring complete user privacy.

If ever someone's iPhone is missing, the Find My app is the solution to solve this problem. That's because securing data remotely will be possible using it. This is also important if you want to delete your confidential data or prevent someone from accessing your digital ID.

Expanding Availability Across the U.S.

California's inclusion in the Apple Wallet ID program marks the sixth state to offer this feature, joining Arizona, Maryland, Colorado, Georgia, and Ohio. 

As digital IDs become more widely accepted, more states will likely adopt this technology, paving the way for a nationwide rollout.

Read Also: iPhone 17 Air Could Come by 2025: Will Apple Bet Big on New Design or Just Hype?