Apple Wallet is expanding its digital ID program. Seven more states are working to add driver's licenses and state IDs to the iPhone app, according to a report from 9to5Mac. The states include Kentucky and North Carolina, with five others in various stages of implementation. The report cites state government announcements and Apple's public statements.
Which states are next?
The seven states are Kentucky, North Carolina, Indiana, Minnesota, Nevada, Oklahoma, and Wyoming. Officials in Kentucky and North Carolina have confirmed they are testing the system. "We are in the final stages of verification," said a spokesperson for the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. North Carolina's DMV commissioner said the state expects to launch by the end of 2026. The other five states have not announced specific timelines, but all have active pilot programs.
How Apple Wallet IDs work
Apple Wallet driver's licenses use the same NFC technology as contactless payments. Users add their ID by scanning the front and back of their physical license and taking a selfie. The state verifies the information and issues a digital version. At TSA checkpoints, travelers can tap their iPhone or Apple Watch at a reader to present their ID. The system does not require unlocking the phone or handing it to an officer. The digital ID also works at participating businesses and venues that accept Apple Wallet IDs.
Privacy and security
Apple says the digital ID is encrypted and stored in the Secure Element, the same chip used for Apple Pay. Users control which information is shared. For example, a user can show only their age without revealing their full name or address. "The phone never reveals more than what is requested," said an Apple spokesperson. States also have the ability to revoke the digital ID if the physical license is suspended. The system is designed to prevent tracking by Apple or the state.
Where Apple Wallet IDs are already available
Currently, Apple Wallet driver's licenses are available in Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, Ohio, Utah, and California. Arizona was the first state to launch in 2021. California joined in 2024. The addition of seven more states would bring the total to 17. Apple has also expressed interest in supporting other forms of identification, such as passports, but no timeline has been announced.
What to expect next
The rollout depends on each state's technology infrastructure and legislative approval. Some states have already passed laws allowing digital IDs, while others are still drafting regulations. Kentucky and North Carolina are expected to be the first of the seven to go live, possibly within the next few months. The remaining states may follow in 2027. Travelers should check with their state DMV for updates. To add a driver's license to Apple Wallet, users open the Wallet app, tap the plus sign, and select Driver's License or State ID. They then follow the on-screen instructions to scan their physical ID and take a selfie.
