CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Governor Patrick Morrisey announced Thursday that West Virginia residents can now add their driver’s licenses and state IDs to Apple Wallet.
The launch, made possible through the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles, allows residents to securely store and present their state-issued ID using their iPhone or Apple Watch.
With this new feature, West Virginians can use their digital ID for identity verification at more than 250 TSA checkpoints across the United States, including those at Charleston Yeager Airport and Huntington Tri-State Airport.
The state is also working with vendors to expand its use to more institutions and retailers.
“This a technological leap forward for our state as West Virginia becomes the 12th state in the country to adopt this technology,” said Governor Morrisey. “This is a first step toward a broader rollout aimed at making everyday life easier for West Virginians.”
To add a driver’s license or ID to Apple Wallet, users can tap the “+” button at the top of the Wallet app, select “Driver’s license or State ID,” and follow on-screen instructions to complete verification.
When presenting an ID in person, users double-click the side button on their device, select their ID, and hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a reader.
The device will display what information is being requested, and only after confirming with Face ID or Touch ID will the information be shared. Because the data is transmitted digitally, users don’t need to hand over their device.
The feature can also be used in apps and online by selecting “Verify with Apple Wallet.” Users are able to review the requested information and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID before sharing.
Officials remind residents that since mobile IDs are not yet accepted everywhere, it’s important to continue carrying a physical license.
According to Apple, IDs in Wallet use the built-in privacy and security protections of Apple devices and comply with the ISO 18013-5 mobile driver’s license standard.
When adding an ID, only the necessary information is shared with the issuing authority for approval.
Once stored, the data is encrypted on the device, meaning neither Apple nor the state can access it. Apple and the issuing authority do not know when or where a user presents their ID.
A user’s presentment history is stored only on their device and cannot be accessed by Apple. Each time an ID is presented, the user must review and authorize which information is shared, ensuring full control over privacy.
For more details, visit learn.wallet.apple/id.
