How to Add Your Driver's License to Apple Wallet

What You Need Before You Start

To add your driver's license to Apple Wallet, you need an iPhone 15 or later, or an iPad with iPadOS 17 or later. Your state must participate in the program—not all states offer this feature yet. As of now, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Ohio, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, and Wyoming support digital licenses in Apple Wallet. More states are expected to join over time.

You will also need your physical driver's license handy and a clear, well-lit space to take photos. The process involves photographing both the front and back of your license, so make sure the lighting is good and the text is readable.

Key Takeaways

Only iPhone 15 and later, or iPad with iPadOS 17 and later, can store a digital driver's license in Apple Wallet.
Your state must be one of the 18 states currently participating in the program for this feature to work.
You photograph your license during setup, and Apple encrypts and stores the images on your device only.
When you show your license to a police officer or TSA agent, you unlock it with Face ID or Touch ID each time.
Your digital license does not replace your physical license—you still need to carry the original.

Step-by-Step: Adding Your License to 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." Choose your state from the list. If your state is not listed, the feature is not yet available there.

Follow the on-screen prompts to photograph the front of your license. Hold your device steady, make sure the entire license is visible, and keep the lighting even. Repeat this for the back of your license. Apple will ask you to verify the information is correct before you proceed.

Next, you will take a selfie and a short video of yourself. These are used to verify your identity and prevent fraud. Follow the instructions carefully—the video usually involves moving your head slightly or blinking. Once Apple processes these images, your license will appear in your Wallet.

How Apple Protects Your License Information

Apple stores your license data only on your device, not on Apple's servers. The images you photograph are encrypted and cannot be accessed by Apple, your state, or anyone else without your permission. When you show your license to an officer or TSA agent, they scan a code on your device—they do not see your photos or personal information beyond what appears on the screen.

Every time someone requests to see your license, you must unlock it with Face ID or Touch ID. This means a thief or someone who steals your phone cannot straightforward hand it over and show your license. The biometric unlock is required each time, even if you have already unlocked your phone.

Where You Can Use Your Digital License

Police officers and TSA agents at airport security checkpoints can scan your digital license. Some states are expanding use to other settings, such as age verification at stores or bars, but this varies by state and business. Check with your state's DMV website to see the current list of places that accept digital licenses.

Your physical license remains the legal document. Many businesses and situations still require the original card, so you must continue to carry it. The digital version is a convenience, not a replacement.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If your state is not showing up in the Wallet app, your device may not meet the requirements. Check that you have an iPhone 15 or later, or an iPad with iPadOS 17 or later. If your device is compatible and your state is listed as participating, try closing and reopening the Wallet app.

If the photo verification fails, make sure the lighting is bright and even, and that your face is clearly visible. Shadows across your face or poor lighting are common reasons for rejection. Try again in a different location with better light. If you continue to have trouble, contact your state's DMV for support.

If you lose your phone or it is stolen, your digital license is still protected by the biometric lock. You can remove it from your old device through your Apple account settings once you have a new phone. Set up the license again on your new device using the same process.

What Happens If You Lose or Damage Your Phone

Your digital license is tied to your Apple account, not just your device. If you get a new iPhone or iPad, you can add your license to the new device by opening Wallet, tapping the plus sign, and selecting your state again. You will need to photograph your license and take a new selfie and video.

If your phone is lost or stolen, sign into your Apple account on a different device and remove the license from your old phone through Find My iPhone. This prevents anyone who finds your phone from accessing your license, even though the biometric lock already protects it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my digital license instead of my physical one?

No. Your physical license is still the legal document you must carry. The digital version is an additional option for convenience at airports and with police officers, but many situations still require the original card. Always keep your physical license with you.

What if my state is not on the list yet?

Check your state's DMV website for updates on when the feature will be available. More states are expected to join the program over time. Until your state participates, you cannot add your license to Apple Wallet.

Do I have to use my digital license, or can I still show my physical one?

You can choose. If a police officer or TSA agent asks for your license, you can show either the digital version or your physical card. There is no requirement to use the digital version.

Is my information safe if someone steals my phone?

Yes. Your license is encrypted on your device and locked behind Face ID or Touch ID. Even if someone steals your phone, they cannot view your license without your biometric unlock. Apple does not store your license data on its servers.

Can I add my license to Apple Wallet on an older iPhone?

No. Only iPhone 15 and later support this feature. If you have an older iPhone, you will need to upgrade to use a digital license in Apple Wallet.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.