California has announced that state ID cards will now be available on Apple and Google Wallets, as revealed by Governor Gavin Newsom. This initiative aims to provide a more convenient, private, and secure way for Californians to manage their driver’s licenses and state IDs directly from their smartphones. By collaborating with major tech companies Apple and Google, the state hopes to integrate these digital IDs into everyday activities seamlessly.
The California DMV has stated that these digital IDs will be usable at select locations. Examples include expedited TSA PreCheck processes at major airports like SFO and LAX, and controlled age verification for purchasing alcohol. Apple’s vice president, Jennifer Bailey, emphasized that the digital IDs on Apple Wallet offer ease of use for travel and identity verification while leveraging the security features inherent in iPhones and Apple Watches.
Despite the convenience offered by digital IDs, Newsom’s office clarified that these will not replace the need to carry a physical card. Instead, they are intended to enhance convenience and accessibility. The digital IDs serve as an additional option rather than a substitute for traditional ID cards.
The DMV’s “Driver’s License (mDL)” program, which was piloted last year, has shown positive results with approximately 500,000 participants. Following this successful trial, the program has been expanded to reach up to 1.5 million residents, with registration now open through Apple and Google app stores. This expansion is part of California’s broader efforts to modernize its services and integrate technology into daily life.
Additionally, the DMV plans to host two “hackathons” in the fall aimed at engaging innovators who are interested in enhancing the digital ID experience. These events are intended to encourage the development of new ideas and solutions to further improve the customer experience with digital identification technologies.
