Your Driver’s License on Your Phone? It’s Happening—But There’s a Catch.
Imagine leaving your wallet at home and breezing through airport security with just your Android phone. That future is here—sort of. While digital state IDs in Google Wallet are rolling out across the U.S., the process is uneven, and surprising limitations remain. Here’s everything you need to know—including the states leading the charge and the fine print you might miss.
How to Add Your State ID to Google Wallet (Step-by-Step)
Adding your ID to Google Wallet is straightforward, but requires careful verification:
- Open the Google Wallet app (Android 9 or later required).
- Tap “Add to Wallet” (bottom-right corner).
- Select “ID” → “Driver’s license or state ID.”
- Choose your state and follow the prompts.
The verification process is where things get interesting: You’ll need to photograph the front/back of your physical ID and record a short selfie video. A frame from this video is sent to your state’s DMV for approval. But here’s the catch: Even after approval, you’re legally required to carry your physical ID—a rule critics call outdated.
Once added, your digital ID appears below payment cards in Google Wallet. You can reorder it or remotely wipe it if your phone is lost (via Google Account > Personal Info > Manage IDs).
Which States Support Digital IDs? (Full List)
As of late 2025, these states actively support Google Wallet IDs, with more joining soon:
- Arizona (Pioneered rollout in October 2023)
- Arkansas (New as of October 2025)
- California (Rolled out August 2024—slow adoption due to privacy debates)
- Colorado (Early adopter, October 2023)
- Georgia (October 2023)
- Iowa (June 2025)
- Maryland (First to launch in December 2022)
- Montana (August 2025)
- New Mexico (December 2024)
- North Dakota (October 2025)
Controversy alert: Why are tech-forward states like New York or Texas lagging? Critics blame bureaucratic red tape, while privacy advocates argue slower rollouts protect sensitive data. Where do you stand?
Upcoming Expansions: Who’s Next?
Google confirmed these regions are next in line:
- Ohio (Expected late 2024)
- Puerto Rico (April 2025)
- West Virginia (April 2025)
Fun fact: Puerto Rico’s inclusion hints at Google’s long-term plan to support U.S. territories—a move that could pave the way for passport integrations.
Where Can You Actually Use a Digital ID?
Primary use case: TSA checkpoints at select airports (check the TSA’s digital ID map). Two methods work:
- NFC tap (review shared data, then unlock your phone).
- QR code scan (open the ID in Google Wallet).
Other uses gaining traction:
- Car rentals (Avis and Hertz testing in 2025)
- Age verification for apps (e.g., alcohol delivery)
- Coming soon: Amazon account recovery, CVS health portals, Uber profile checks
But here’s the twist: Google’s “Zero-Knowledge Proof” tech (open-sourced in 2025) aims to let you verify age/identity without exposing personal details—a privacy win that could redefine digital trust.
Passport Hack: Bypassing REAL ID Requirements
Facing the May 2025 REAL ID deadline? Google’s workaround lets you use a digital U.S. passport for domestic flights—even without a REAL ID-compliant license. Here’s how:
- In Google Wallet, tap “Add to Wallet” → “ID pass.”
- Photograph your passport’s info page.
- Scan the NFC chip (inside the back cover).
- Record a face video for anti-spoofing checks.
Limitations: Physical passports are still mandatory, and this won’t work for international travel. Smart move or security risk? Debate below!
The Big Question: Is Digital ID the Future?
Proponents love the convenience, but skeptics worry about surveillance or phone theft risks. Would you ditch your physical ID? Sound off in the comments—and follow 9to5Google for updates.
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