Digital ID works at TSA checkpoints the same way a physical ID does, but you show it on your phone instead of handing over a card

When you reach the TSA agent at security, you unlock your phone and open the digital ID app or wallet where you stored your ID. The agent scans the barcode or QR code on your screen, or they may ask you to hold your phone so they can see your photo and information. The process takes the same amount of time as showing a physical ID — usually under a minute. You do not need to do anything special to prepare; just have your phone charged and the ID unlocked and ready.

Digital IDs are currently available in a limited number of states. As of now, Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Mississippi, and Ohio have rolled out digital driver's licenses or state IDs that work at TSA checkpoints. More states are expected to add them over time. If your state does not yet offer a digital ID, you can still use your physical driver's license or passport at security.

Key Takeaways

  • Digital IDs work at TSA checkpoints in Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Mississippi, and Ohio, and the agent scans the barcode on your phone screen.
  • You must have your phone charged and unlocked with the digital ID open and ready before you reach the agent.
  • The TSA agent may scan your phone or ask you to hold it so they can see your photo and personal information.
  • Digital IDs are optional — you can still use your physical driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID at any TSA checkpoint.

Which states currently offer digital IDs at TSA checkpoints

Arizona was the first state to launch a digital driver's license that works at TSA checkpoints. Residents can add their Arizona driver's license to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet on their phone. Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Mississippi, and Ohio have since launched their own digital ID programs that are also accepted at TSA security.

Each state's digital ID is stored in the state's official app or in Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. If you live in one of these states, you can check your state's DMV website to learn how to add your ID to your phone. If your state is not listed here, check back with your state's DMV — many states are working on digital ID programs and may launch them in the coming months or years.

How to add your ID to your phone before you travel

The steps vary slightly by state and by phone type, but the general process is the same. First, open Apple Wallet (on iPhone) or Google Wallet (on Android). Look for an option to add a driver's license or state ID. Tap that option and follow the prompts to take a photo of the front and back of your physical ID, and a selfie of your face. The state will verify your information, which usually takes a few minutes to a few hours.

Once your digital ID is approved, it appears in your Wallet app. You do not need to do anything else before you travel — just make sure your phone is charged. Some states also offer a standalone app for their digital ID; check your state's DMV website to see if that is an option in your state. If you have trouble adding your ID, contact your state's DMV for support.

What to do when you reach the TSA agent with a digital ID

Unlock your phone and open your Wallet app (Apple Wallet or Google Wallet) or your state's digital ID app. Tap on your digital ID so it appears on your screen. When the TSA agent asks for your ID, hold your phone up or hand it to them. They will either scan the barcode or QR code on your screen, or they will look at your photo and information to verify your identity.

The agent may ask you to confirm your address or answer a security question, just as they might with a physical ID. Once they have verified your information, you can put your phone away and proceed through security. The entire process is the same as showing a physical ID — there is nothing unusual or complicated about it.

Common mistakes to avoid when using digital ID at TSA

The most common mistake is arriving at security with a phone that is low on battery. If your phone dies while you are in the security line, you will not be able to show your digital ID. Charge your phone fully before you leave for the airport, and consider bringing a portable charger in your carry-on bag.

Another mistake is locking your phone or closing the Wallet app after you open it. Keep your digital ID visible on your screen as you approach the agent. If you accidentally lock your phone, unlock it again and reopen your ID — it only takes a few seconds, but it is easier to avoid the step altogether.

Do not assume every TSA checkpoint accepts digital IDs yet. While the TSA has approved digital IDs from the states listed above, some individual checkpoints may not have the equipment to scan them. If an agent tells you they cannot scan your digital ID, show them your physical ID instead. You can carry both at the same time with no problem.

What to do if the TSA agent cannot scan your digital ID

If the agent's scanner does not work or they are not familiar with digital IDs, straightforward show them your physical driver's license or passport instead. You are not required to use your digital ID — it is just an option. Having your physical ID with you is always a good idea as a backup.

If you want to report a problem or give feedback about your experience with a digital ID at TSA, you can contact the TSA through their website or social media. The more feedback the TSA receives about digital IDs, the faster they can work with states to expand the program and train agents at all checkpoints.

Digital ID versus physical ID: what you need to know

Digital IDs and physical IDs are equally valid at TSA checkpoints. The only difference is where the ID is stored — on your phone or in your wallet. The TSA does not prefer one over the other. Choose whichever is more convenient for you.

Some travelers prefer digital IDs because they do not have to carry a physical card. Others prefer physical IDs because they do not have to worry about their phone battery or forgetting to unlock their phone. You can carry both at the same time, so you can use whichever one is easiest in the moment. If your phone is dead, your physical ID will get you through security just fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital ID from another state if I am traveling?

No. Your digital ID must be from the state where you live or where you hold a driver's license. If you are traveling to another state, you can still use your physical ID from your home state. The TSA accepts driver's licenses and state IDs from all 50 states, regardless of where you are traveling.

What if my phone screen is cracked or hard to read?

If your phone screen is damaged and the barcode or photo is not visible, show the TSA agent your physical ID instead. You can also contact your phone manufacturer or a repair shop to fix the screen before your next trip. Always carry your physical ID as a backup.

Do I need to turn off face recognition or fingerprint unlock before showing my digital ID?

No. You can keep your phone's security settings as they are. Just unlock your phone normally and open your digital ID. The TSA agent does not need to unlock your phone — they only need to see the ID on your screen.

Can I use a digital ID for international flights?

Digital IDs currently work only for domestic TSA checkpoints. For international flights, you must show your physical passport. Check with your airline for their specific ID requirements before you travel.

What happens if I lose my phone before my flight?

Use your physical driver's license or passport at the TSA checkpoint. You can add your digital ID to a new phone once you have replaced your old one. The digital ID is stored in your state's system, so you can restore it to a new phone by following the same steps you used to add it the first time.