As TSA rolls out digital ID verification at several airports across the country, now is a great time to set up your State ID on your Android device. A digital ID, if you’re unfamiliar, simply involves uploading your personal identification documents, such as a state-issued ID, to platforms like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet. It is always advisable to carry a physical ID when traveling, but the digital version allows you to pass through checkpoints more quickly. Since Google Wallet comes pre-installed on most new Android phones, it’s the perfect option for setting up your ID. That said, the feature is currently available in select states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico, and North Dakota.
To create your ID, open Google Wallet and tap the blue Plus icon in the lower right corner. Select ID > Driver’s License or State ID > Your Current State of Residence > Get Started. You must take photos of the front and back of your issued physical ID and a video of your face for verification. This is not the same thing as what the TSA facial scanner actually does, but rather a simpler version. Place yourself in a well-lit room or environment and choose a neutral surface – such as a plain white or black counter or table – on which to place your ID. After the media is uploaded, it may take a few minutes for your state transportation department to review and verify the information.
You can also add passport to Google Wallet
If you are not in one of the supported states, you can still add your passport to your Google Wallet and use it for the identity verification process. To add your passport to Google Wallet, you can follow pretty much the same steps. Open Google Wallet, tap the blue Plus icon in the lower right corner, and select ID > ID > United States > Get Started. These advanced screening technologies can help significantly reduce airport queues, or even make them a problem of the past. With digital IDs, you can quickly scan your information at a checkpoint and pass it without having to deal with officers, saving you time.
Notably, your ID card is not the same thing as a digital ID created using your state-issued ID; it’s simply a digital copy of your passport. This form of digital verification only works in the US and UK and is intended for domestic travel only. It’s also worth noting that it may not be available at all airports yet. Either way, it’s a solid alternative for getting through security checkpoints faster.
