California residents can now store their driver’s license or state ID in both Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, making verifying their identity on the go easier. This move is part of a broader effort by the state to digitize IDs, allowing users to present their mobile licenses at select TSA checkpoints and businesses and within certain apps.
To add an ID to Apple Wallet, users simply tap the “+” button in the app and follow the instructions to scan their physical ID and complete verification. Google Wallet users follow a similar process when adding their digital IDs.
This expansion follows California’s initial mobile driver’s license (CDL) program, which has already seen over 500,000 residents sign up through the DMV app. With Apple and Google supporting digital IDs, California joins many states embracing mobile technology to simplify everyday life.
While the technology promises added convenience, privacy advocates have raised concerns about data collection. However, Apple and Google have emphasized that their digital ID standards are designed with security and privacy in mind, encrypting personal information on users’ devices to prevent unauthorized access.
As more states explore digital licenses, California is leading the way in revolutionizing how residents interact with their government-issued IDs, marking a significant step toward a more connected, digital future.