Integrating Your State ID into Google Wallet: A Comprehensive Guide
In recent months, several states across the United States have begun to support the feature that allows users to add their driver’s licenses or state IDs to the Google Wallet app on Android devices. This new functionality aims to streamline identity verification processes and enhance convenience for users.
How to Add Your State ID on Android
To add your state ID to Google Wallet, follow these straightforward steps:
- Open the Google Wallet app on your Android device (version 9 or newer).
- Tap the “Add to Wallet” button located in the bottom-right corner.
- Select “ID” and then choose “Driver’s License or State ID.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to select your state and upload required documents.
This process involves snapping photos of both the front and back of your physical ID, along with recording a short video of yourself for verification purposes. A photo from this video will be shared with your state’s ID issuer.
Approved States for Google Wallet IDs
As of now, several states have rolled out support for digital IDs in Google Wallet, including:
- Arizona (October 2023)
- California (August 2024)
- Colorado (October 2023)
- Georgia (October 2023)
- Iowa (June 2025)
- Maryland (December 2022)
- Montana (August 2025)
- New Mexico (December 2024)
- North Dakota (October 2025)
Future State ID Implementations
Google has announced upcoming support for digital IDs in additional locations, including:
- Arkansas (April 2025)
- Ohio (September 2024)
- Puerto Rico (April 2025)
- West Virginia (April 2025)
Utilizing State IDs in Various Locations
Your digital ID can primarily be used at TSA checkpoints in select US airports. There are two methods for verification:
- Tapping your phone at the NFC terminal, where you will authenticate using your device unlock.
- Using a QR code by opening your ID in Google Wallet.
While digital IDs are convenient, it is essential to carry your physical ID card during travel for compliance with regulations.
Emerging Use Cases for Digital IDs
Some mobile applications, such as those from car rental services, have begun to accept digital IDs for identity verification. If an app requests your age, you can confirm this with a prompt that facilitates sharing your information securely. On desktop platforms, scanning a QR code simplifies the process further.
Looking to the future, Google is establishing methods to utilize digital IDs for various services, including account recovery on platforms like Amazon, access to online health services via CVS and MyChart by Epic, and profile verification on services like Uber.
Using Your Passport as a Digital ID
Google also introduced the ability to utilize a U.S. passport as a digital ID for domestic air travel. To set this up, open Google Wallet, select “Add to Wallet,” and then choose “ID Pass.” The process requires you to photograph your passport’s information page, scan the security chip inside, and record a brief video for verification. Just like with state IDs, the NFC and QR code methods for using this digital passport remain unchanged.
Carry your physical passport while traveling, as this feature is not designed for international use. As the adoption of digital IDs increases, they are set to transform how we manage and verify our identities in various settings.
