No Real ID? iOS 26 Will Bring Passports to Apple Wallet
Credit: Apple
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Beginning this fall with the release of iOS 26, Apple Wallet will allow users to store their US passports as Digital IDs. Better yet, the TSA will accept the passport as a Digital ID in place of a REAL ID.
The REAL ID Act dates back to a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission and sets forth minimum security standards for the issuance and production of driver’s licenses in the US. Despite being passed by Congress in 2005, enforcement has been delayed for 20 years due to COVID and other factors.
Since May 7th, state-issued driver’s licenses for those 18 and older that are not REAL ID complaint are no longer accepted as a valid form of identification at US airports. Given that obtaining a REAL ID requires the gathering and submission of documents, an appointment at the DMV, plus a waiting period of about 2-3 weeks until the new physical REAL ID is sent in the mail, this news should be a welcome relief to travelers who have yet to obtain a REAL ID.
There’s a catch, though: a Digital ID passport is only acceptable by the TSA for domestic flights. Travelers flying internationally will still need their physical passport.
If you don’t have a REAL ID, a physical passport is acceptable to TSA. However, those without a REAL ID wishing to travel domestically will likely be subject to additional screening. Beyond boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft, you’ll also need a REAL ID to enter certain federal facilities and nuclear power plants.
In order to obtain a REAL ID, individuals must visit a DMV (so much fun) and present multiple documents for the re-issuance of their license as a REAL ID. These documents include one proof of identity document like a valid S passport, original or Certified copy of a US birth certificate, valid Permanent Resident Card, or a foreign passport with a valid US Visa approved I-94 form (among other alternatives). Then, the individual must provide two supporting documents verifying they are, in fact, a resident of the particular state matching their license. These could include a home utility bill, records from a state or national bank, credit union, or credit card institution, insurance document, a mortgage bill, and others.
The TSA warns that while Digital ID passports will be accepted, it’s still highly advisable for passengers using this option to bring their physical passport as well in the event additional verification is needed. Digital IDs can be added to Apple Wallet on the iPhone and Apple Watch.
Soon, your Apple will allow users to add the perfect companion to flight tickets to the Apple Wallet, your passport. Stay tuned for iOS 26, which will include instructions on uploading your passport to your Apple Wallet. In the meantime, think about scheduling an appointment at your local DMV for your REAL ID if you haven’t already. In many states, you can schedule your appointment online and submit your documentation ahead of time, but you still need to show up in person. Don’t let invalid identification ruin your summer travel plans. Also, make sure your passport is up to date.
