California driver’s licenses and state IDs can now be added to Apple Wallet. Apple made this latest announcement on September 19th after having reported last month that this new mobile option was coming soon. This new mobile ID option enables Californians to “seamlessly and securely add and present their IDs using their iPhone or Apple Watch.”
“Californians now have the option of adding their driver’s license or state ID to their iPhone or Apple Watch in Apple Wallet,” said California Governor Gavin Newsom. “With this new integration, we’re working to better serve the people of California in the 21st century.”
In August, Governor Newsom announced that Californians would soon have multiple options for carrying a mobile version of their driver’s license or state-issued IDs on mobile devices. The mobile driver’s license is being referred to as an mDL.
Californians can now choose between having a safe, secure, and convenient way to store their mDLs on either Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. The new technology will provide multiple options for adding the mobile IDs onto iPhone, Apple Watch, and Android devices. These new mobile ID options are part of the larger mobile Driver’s License (mDL) pilot program offered by the DMV which was launched last year.
California Governor Gavin Newsom stated that “We’re partnering with two iconic California companies – Apple and Google – to provide convenient, private and secure driver’s licenses and ID cards directly on people’s phones. This is a big step in our efforts to better serve all Californians, meeting people where they’re at and with technology people use every day.”
How can I enroll in the mDL pilot program?
To enroll in the free and voluntary mDL pilot, you need a smartphone and a valid, easily readable California DL/ID. Use your smartphone to download the CA DMV Wallet app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
When will the mDL program officially launch?
Right now! This new announcement by Apple is the official launch start. Mobile access is available now through the California DMV Wallet app. This new expansion will provide mobile access for iPhone, Apple Watch, and Android devices.
Where can I use my mDL?
It was not announced if the mobile IDs are now accepted by law enforcement or state government agencies. So it seems best if Californians still carry a physical card at the moment until further announcements are made. Multiple airports, including LAX’s TSA, can accept them. Plus, currently a small number of stores accept them for age-restricted purchases. Apple shared that “users do not need to unlock, show, or hand over their device to present their ID.”
You can read more about the new plan for California IDs in Google Wallet and Apple Wallet on their website.