Apple is introducing a new feature allowing iPhone users to add their U.S. passport to the Wallet app, enabling their iPhone or Apple Watch to serve as a Digital ID for domestic travel. Announced at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference in June, this update will arrive with iOS 26. The Digital ID complies with REAL ID standards, critical since many state-issued driver’s licenses no longer meet these requirements for airport security. Without a valid REAL ID, travelers could face extra screening or be denied access to security checkpoints.
This new passport feature aims to simplify airport procedures and reduce frustration for travelers. Although Apple listed the option as coming “later this year” in June, executive Jennifer Bailey confirmed it would launch before the year’s end, possibly by December. Ideally, it will be available just in time for the busy Thanksgiving travel rush.
It’s important to note that this Digital ID feature is only for domestic U.S. travel; it won’t replace a traditional passport for international trips. Additionally, the feature currently works only within the United States; users abroad won’t be able to use it yet. There’s no confirmed timeline for expanding the feature to other countries.
Not all U.S. airports may support this Digital ID yet. While the TSA reports that over 250 of the roughly 487 commercial airports accept Digital IDs, major airports are more likely to accommodate them. Travelers should verify acceptance if their Digital ID is their sole form of identification.
Finally, Apple is not alone in offering passport support in a wallet app. Similar functionality is already available on Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet.