<p class="wp-block-paragraph"><a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/virginia/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Virginia</a> drivers can now upload their driver’s licenses to <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/apple/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> Wallet, allowing residents to store their identification digitally.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) launched this feature on August 30, 2026, enabling residents with valid Virginia driver’s licenses or state-issued ID cards to store a digital version on their <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/iphones/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iPhone</a> or Apple Watch.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The digital IDs are not intended to replace physical cards, and the DMV advises residents to continue carrying their ID cards. This new feature aims to simplify the process of presenting identification.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-add-an-id-to-apple-wallet">How to Add an ID to Apple Wallet</h2>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To add an ID, users should open the Wallet app, tap “Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards,” and select Virginia. The app will prompt users to scan the front and back of their ID.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">After confirming their identity through facial recognition, the application will be sent to the Virginia DMV for approval. Users will be notified when their ID is ready for use in Apple Wallet, with the DMV stating that the process generally takes a relatively short period of time.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">A Real ID is not required to use this feature, and Apple recommends that users take pictures of themselves and their IDs in a well-lit area against a plain background.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-and-how-to-use-a-digital-id">Where and How to Use a Digital ID</h2>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">The digital ID can be utilized at over 250 <a href="https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/tsa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Transportation Security Administration</a> checkpoints nationwide, including at Washington Dulles International, Reagan Washington National, Richmond International, and Norfolk International airports.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Apple Wallet IDs can also be used at select ABC stores for alcohol purchases. A <a href="https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/mobile-id/locations#airport" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">full list of participating stores</a> is available on the Virginia DMV website. The DMV and some law enforcement agencies piloting the program also accept digital IDs.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To present an ID using Apple Wallet, users should double-click the side button to launch Face ID or enter their passcode. They can then tap their ID card in the app and hold the top of the phone or Apple Watch face near the identity reader. Users are advised to keep their devices in their possession while presenting an ID.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">After tapping the reader, the shared information will appear on the iPhone screen. To approve the information, users should double-click the side button on the watch or phone, or hold their finger on the home button if using fingerprint ID.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">According to the DMV website, users’ IDs are secured through the privacy and security features included in iPhones and Apple Watches. Information regarding where, when, and what personal information is shared is encrypted and stored only on the device. Both the DMV and Apple do not have access to information about digital ID usage.</p>
<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To remove a digital ID from Apple Wallet, users can tap the digital ID in the app, press the “i” in the upper-right corner, and select “Remove Driver’s License.”</p>