States across the United States are gradually introducing support for integrating driver’s licenses and state IDs into the Google Wallet app for Android users. This development marks a significant step towards digitizing personal identification, making it more convenient for users to manage their credentials.
Update 10/4
How to add your state ID on Android
- Open the Google Wallet app on Android 9 or higher.
- Tap the “Add to Wallet” button located in the bottom-right corner.
- Select “ID,” then choose “Driver’s license or state ID.”
- Pick your state and follow the on-screen instructions.
The process requires users to capture images of both the front and back of their physical ID cards, along with a brief video for verification purposes. A photo from this video will be submitted to the ID issuer for authentication.
Upon approval, the digital ID will be displayed alongside other payment methods within the app. Users can easily rearrange the order of their IDs and have the option to remove the ID remotely through their Google account if their phone is lost.
Related: Google Wallet Material 3 Expressive redesign widely rolling out
What Google Wallet state IDs are supported
- Arizona (Rolled out October 2023)
- California (Rolled out August 2024)
- Colorado (Rolled out October 2023)
- Georgia (Rolled out October 2023)
- Iowa (Rolled out June 2025)
- Maryland (Rolled out December 2022)
- Montana (Rolled out August 2025)
- New Mexico (Rolled out December 2024)
- [New] North Dakota (Rolled out October 2025)
Where state IDs are coming next
Google has announced plans to expand support for digital IDs to additional locations, including:
- Arkansas (Upcoming availability announced April 2025)
- Ohio (Upcoming availability announced September 2024)
- Puerto Rico (Upcoming availability announced April 2025)
- West Virginia (Upcoming availability announced April 2025)
Where you can use state IDs
The primary application for these digital IDs is at TSA checkpoints in select U.S. airports. Users can utilize their IDs in two ways: by tapping their phones at NFC terminals or by using a QR code method that involves opening the ID in Google Wallet. It is important to note that users are still required to carry their physical ID cards at all times.
Moreover, certain applications, such as those from car rental services, are beginning to accept digital IDs for identity and age verification. On mobile platforms, confirming your age is as simple as authenticating the request, while desktop users can scan a QR code for verification.
Google is advancing its technology to ensure that personal identities remain secure. Through what it calls Zero-Knowledge Proof, the company aims to facilitate identity verification without linking back to a user’s personal information. This technology will be open-sourced for broader use.
Looking ahead, digital IDs are expected to enhance customer experiences at DMVs in states like Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, and New Mexico.
Additionally, Google is exploring the potential for digital IDs to assist users in recovering Amazon accounts, accessing online health services through CVS and MyChart by Epic, and verifying profiles on platforms such as Uber.
Using passport as REAL ID
In a recent update, Google highlighted that users can utilize an ID pass created from a U.S. passport for TSA security during domestic travel at supported airports, even if they do not possess a REAL ID driver’s license or state-issued ID. This feature is particularly relevant as the May 7, 2025 deadline approaches.
To create this ID pass, users need to navigate to Google Wallet, select “Add to Wallet,” and then choose “ID pass.” The process involves taking a picture of the passport’s information page, scanning the security chip located inside the back cover, and recording a video of the user’s face for verification purposes.
The methods for using this digital passport ID—via NFC or QR code—remain consistent with those for state IDs. Users are reminded to keep the physical passport on hand while traveling, as this feature is not applicable for international travel.
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