Apple is expanding its digital ID program, and Montana residents now have access. Drivers in the state can upload their licenses and state IDs directly into the Apple Wallet app, making identification easier at airports and select businesses.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
The Montana Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) announced that citizens can add their digital IDs using their iPhone. To enroll, users open the Wallet app, tap the plus sign, select their state, and scan their physical ID. They must also take a selfie to confirm identity. After approval, the ID appears in Wallet and is ready for use.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says digital IDs are now supported at more than 250 airports, including Helena Regional Airport (HLN). Digital IDs allow travelers to pass checkpoints by simply holding their iPhone or Apple Watch near a TSA reader.
Digital IDs are also useful for age-restricted purchases at select Montana businesses. These businesses verify IDs with the Montana Mobile ID Verifier app, available on both iOS and Android. The Montana Highway Patrol expects to begin accepting mobile IDs by the end of the year.
Despite the convenience, both the TSA and Montana officials remind citizens to keep their physical ID on hand. Some verifications may still require a physical license.
Montana becomes the eleventh region in the United States to adopt Wallet IDs. Other supported U.S. states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Maryland, New Mexico, Ohio, and Puerto Rico. More states, including Mississippi, Illinois, Connecticut, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Utah, and West Virginia, are preparing to roll out the feature.
The addition reflects Apple’s push to make Wallet the center of digital identification, payments, and travel. It also shows how state governments are embracing secure mobile ID technology to improve efficiency.
TF Summary: What’s Next
Montana’s integration into Apple Wallet digital IDs marks another step in the expansion of mobile identity tools across the U.S. As more states adopt the system, airports, police, and businesses will adapt to digital-first verification methods.
The success of Montana’s rollout may encourage faster adoption elsewhere. But physical IDs remain necessary, and officials continue to stress their importance. Expect Wallet adoption to grow as more agencies, retailers, and states join the program.
— Text-to-Speech (TTS) provided by gspeech