FAQ: Digital ID, Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Digital Passports
Can I use Apple’s Digital ID for international travel?
No. Digital ID cannot be used for international flights, border crossings, or customs. You still need your physical passport.
Is Apple’s Digital ID the same as a digital passport?
No. It is a passport-based identity credential, not a full passport replacement. It verifies identity only for designated domestic TSA checkpoints.
Do I still need to carry my physical passport?
Yes. TSA may request physical ID if there is an issue with the digital scan. Physical passports are also required for any travel outside the United States.
Where is Apple Digital ID accepted?
It is rolling out at more than 250 TSA checkpoints across the United States. Acceptance may vary by airport, checkpoint, and agent training level.
Is Google Wallet’s digital passport feature the same as Apple’s?
Google Wallet introduced a similar passport-based ID feature in late 2024. Both systems use scanning, chip reading, and facial verification to create a secure digital ID for domestic travel.
Is it safe to store my passport in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet?
Yes. Passport data is encrypted and stored locally on the device. Neither Apple nor Google can see when or where you use it. Only the minimum required information is shared when you present your digital ID.
Can I use Digital ID for bars, hotels, or age verification?
Not yet. Apple and Google both plan to expand digital identification to businesses, apps, and online age verification in the future.
What if TSA does not recognize my digital ID?
You can always present your physical passport or REAL ID. Digital ID is optional and designed as a convenience, not a requirement.
Does Digital ID fulfill REAL ID requirements for domestic flights?
Yes. Passport-based Digital ID fulfills REAL ID identification requirements at participating TSA checkpoints.
Do I need a special version of iOS or Android?
Apple Digital ID requires iOS 26.1 or later. Google Wallet’s passport feature requires the most recent Android updates and Google Play Services.