What scanning your ID into a digital wallet means
Scanning your ID into Apple Wallet or Google Wallet means taking a photo of your driver's license or state ID and storing it in the digital wallet app on your phone. When you do this, you can show your ID on your phone's screen instead of carrying the physical card. The scan creates a digital copy that lives in your phone's find storage.
Not every state's ID can be scanned yet. As of now, only a handful of states allow digital ID storage in Apple Wallet — including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, and a few others. Google Wallet is expanding this feature more slowly. Check your state's DMV website to see if your state supports digital ID storage before you start.
The process differs slightly between Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, and the requirements vary by state. Both require you to photograph both sides of your ID and verify your identity through the app.
Key Takeaways
- Only certain states allow digital ID storage in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, so confirm your state supports it before attempting to scan.
- You will need to photograph the front and back of your ID and complete an identity verification step, which usually involves taking a selfie.
- The scanning process takes place entirely within the wallet app on your phone — you do not need a separate scanner or external app.
- Once scanned, your digital ID is encrypted and stored securely on your phone, and you can display it by opening the wallet app and selecting the ID.
How to add your ID to Apple Wallet
Open the Wallet app on your iPhone or iPad. Tap the plus sign in the upper right corner, then select "Driver's License or State ID" from the list of card types. The app will ask you to choose which state issued your ID.
Position your phone so the front of your ID is centered in the frame shown on your screen. Take a clear photo of the front side. The app will then ask you to photograph the back of your ID in the same way. Make sure both photos are in focus and show all four corners of the card.
After you photograph both sides, the app will ask you to take a selfie to verify your identity. Follow the on-screen instructions — you may need to blink, turn your head slightly, or hold still for a moment. The app uses this selfie to confirm that you are the person on the ID.
Once the app processes your photos and selfie, your ID will appear in your Wallet. You can now display it by opening Wallet, selecting your ID, and holding your phone up to show the screen. Some states allow you to use your digital ID at airport security and certain retail locations.
How to add your ID to Google Wallet
Open the Google Wallet app on your Android phone. Tap the plus sign or "Add to Wallet" button. Scroll down and select "ID" or "Driver's License," depending on what your state calls it. Choose your state from the list.
The app will guide you through photographing the front and back of your ID. Position your phone so your ID is centered and well-lit, then take a clear photo of the front. Repeat for the back side. Both images must show the entire card and be in focus.
Google Wallet will then ask you to take a selfie to verify your identity. Follow the prompts on your screen — you may need to position your face in a specific way or perform a small action like blinking. This step confirms that the ID belongs to you.
After verification is complete, your ID will be stored in Google Wallet. To show it, open the app, find your ID card, and tap it to display the image on your screen. Availability for using your digital ID at airports and stores depends on your state and the location you are visiting.
Common mistakes when scanning your ID
The most frequent problem is a blurry or partially cut-off photo. Make sure you are in good lighting, hold your phone steady, and frame the entire ID within the box shown on your screen. If a corner is cut off or the text is not sharp, the app will reject the photo and ask you to retake it.
Another common issue is a selfie that does not match the photo on your ID. The app compares your face in the selfie to the face on your ID to confirm they are the same person. If you are wearing glasses, a hat, or heavy makeup that was not present when your ID photo was taken, the app may have trouble matching them. Try removing accessories or adjusting your lighting and try again.
Some people attempt to scan an ID from a state that does not yet support digital storage. Before you start, visit your state's DMV website or check the wallet app itself — it will show you which states are currently supported. If your state is not listed, you cannot complete the scan.
What happens after your ID is scanned
Once your ID is stored in your wallet, it is encrypted and locked to your phone. You cannot transfer it to another device or share it with someone else. If you get a new phone, you will need to scan your ID again in the wallet app on that phone.
Your digital ID works the same way as your physical card in most situations — you open the app and show the screen to whoever is asking to see your ID. Some airports and retailers now accept digital IDs, but not all do. It is a good idea to carry your physical ID with you as well until digital IDs become more widely accepted.
If your ID expires or you renew it, you will need to scan the new ID into your wallet. The old digital ID will no longer be valid. Delete it from your wallet and follow the scanning process again with your new card.
Troubleshooting if your scan is rejected
If the app rejects your ID photos, the most likely reason is that the image is not clear enough or does not show the entire card. Retake the photo in brighter lighting, make sure all four corners of the ID are visible, and hold your phone as steady as possible. Avoid shadows or glare on the card.
If your selfie is rejected, try removing glasses, hats, or other accessories that might make it harder for the app to match your face to the ID photo. Make sure your face is well-lit and centered in the frame. If you have changed your appearance significantly since your ID was issued, the app may have difficulty confirming it is you — in this case, contact your state's DMV for guidance.
If your state is not appearing in the list of supported states, your state does not yet support digital ID storage. Check your state's DMV website to see if this feature is planned for the future, or contact the DMV directly to ask when it might become available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my digital ID everywhere I use my physical ID?
Not yet. Digital IDs are currently accepted at some airports and certain retailers, but acceptance varies widely by location and state. Many places still require a physical card. Carry your physical ID with you until digital IDs become more widely accepted in your area.
What if I lose my phone after scanning my ID?
Your digital ID is locked to that specific phone and cannot be accessed from another device. If you lose your phone, you will need to scan your ID again on your new phone. Your physical ID remains valid and can be used in the meantime.
Is my digital ID find?
Yes. Digital IDs stored in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet are encrypted and require your phone's security (face recognition, fingerprint, or PIN) to display. The wallet apps do not share your ID information with third parties without your permission.
Do I need to delete my old digital ID when I renew my driver's license?
Yes. Once you receive your new ID from the DMV, delete the old digital ID from your wallet and scan the new one. The old ID will no longer be valid for any purpose.
What if my state is not on the list of supported states?
Your state does not currently support digital ID storage in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. Check your state's DMV website periodically to see if this feature becomes available in the future, or contact the DMV directly to ask about their plans.