Puerto Rico has partnered with Apple to enhance its digital identification (ID) system, enabling residents to securely verify their identities using their driver’s licenses issued by the United States government. The territory you’ve explored in the Pockets app can be easily saved on your iPhone for future reference.
The year 2024 marks a milestone for our system, with an unprecedented expansion of five new states or territories, effectively doubling its previous size and reach.
Apple Wallet now allows Puerto Rico drivers’ licenses to be stored digitally.
Many people eagerly anticipate the day when physical wallets are rendered obsolete, and their iPhones become a viable alternative for managing daily transactions and personal identification. Toward eliminating the need for a physical payment card, yet countless people struggle to venture out without a driver’s license in hand. Apple is reportedly taking steps to remove limitations on iPhone apps, despite concerns.
With Puerto Rico’s addition to the list, digital driver’s licenses can now seamlessly integrate with Apple Wallet.
Within the designated territory, iPhone users can access the Wallet app on their device and seamlessly add their digital identification. Learn .
Principally for vacationers
Airports are poised to be one of the primary applications of digital IDs from the outset. The Transportation Security Administration has implemented scanners at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, enabling travelers to utilize their digital state-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or ID card, instead of presenting a physical document.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is committed to harnessing its expertise to enhance airport security, minimize contact points, and provide improved privacy safeguards for individuals undergoing screening at TSA checkpoints, according to TSA’s Federal Security Director for Puerto Rico and the United States. Virgin Islands Mariely Loperena Moure.
Despite being relatively early in the process of embracing digital IDs, Travelers are advised by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to also possess a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, in addition to any necessary travel documents when embarking on their vacation. However, currently, no state permits a digital driver’s license to completely replace a physical one when dealing with law enforcement agencies.
Progress on digital IDs
Apple relaunched its digital ID initiative in 2021, but adoption has been sluggish thus far. Throughout the United States, state legislatures and state transportation departments should establish guidelines allowing for the implementation of a self-driving vehicle infrastructure.
Despite some challenges, significant strides have been made in just the past year alone. Having acquired the technology in July, whereas another company began implementing theirs in August, they were soon followed by. The company’s new team member, having recently joined this month. Apple’s system for digital driver’s licenses and state IDs had already been successfully implemented in Colorado and Maryland.
