Illinois residents will soon be able to carry their driver’s license or state ID directly on their iPhone or Apple Watch.
Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced that beginning Wednesday, Nov. 19, Illinois-issued IDs can be added to Apple Wallet and used at select businesses, online platforms, and TSA checkpoints. More than 250 airports nationwide will accept the digital IDs at launch, including Chicago O’Hare, Midway, and St. Louis Lambert. It’s not yet clear when Peoria International Airport will be added.
Giannoulias said the initiative will expand soon to Google and Samsung wallet platforms.
“This is a game changer for Illinois residents,” Giannoulias said. “Your ID can live right on your iPhone — ready to use at airports, restaurants, and bars across the state. This launch brings together security, privacy, and convenience in a way that will make life easier for millions.”
Illinois becomes the 13th state, plus Puerto Rico, to support digital IDs in Apple Wallet. The digital ID is not a replacement for carrying a physical card, officials emphasized.
Both the Secretary of State’s office and Apple highlighted the program’s privacy features, noting that users can see exactly what information they share and that only the ID owner can present it.
How to Add Your ID to Apple Wallet
Starting Wednesday, residents can tap the “Add (+)” button in the Wallet app, select Driver’s License or State ID, and follow the on-screen steps. The process includes:
-
Scanning the physical driver’s license or state ID
-
Taking a secure selfie
-
Completing a series of facial and head movements for verification
Once the state verifies the information, the digital ID appears in Wallet.
Alongside the rollout, the Secretary of State’s office is also launching a free Mobile ID Verifier app for businesses to confirm age and identity for restricted purchases such as alcohol. The app, available Wednesday in the Apple App Store, is designed to make verification faster while protecting customer privacy.
This announcement comes just days after Apple introduced the ability for U.S. passport holders to add their passports to Apple Wallet.
The digital ID program stems from a law signed by Gov. JB Pritzker earlier this year. Under HB4592, agencies and private businesses may choose whether to accept electronic IDs, though residents must still present a physical ID if requested by law enforcement.
