Last fall, Apple introduced a new Digital ID feature in the Wallet app. Now, that feature can legally be used as a way to verify age in a few cases on the iPhone. Here’s what it means.
Apple’s digital ID launched with TSA checkpoint acceptance, and the promise of more to come
Apple Wallet has provided support for IDs and driver’s licenses for years. But US states have been slow to cooperate on this aspect.
So in iOS 26, Apple came up with another solution called ‘Digital ID.’
Here’s Apple’s explanation:
Digital ID provides a secure and private way for users to create an ID in Apple Wallet using information from their US passports, and present their ID via iPhone or Apple Watch.
In fact, while states are still working on issuing digital driver’s licenses, Apple allows any iPhone user to create a Digital ID with a US passport.
At launch, Digital ID was accepted at TSA security checkpoints at more than 250 US airports for domestic departures.
Apple has promised many more use cases to come. It said, “In the future, users will be able to present their Digital ID to select businesses and organizations for identity and age verification in person, on apps, and online.”
Now, the first part of that promised expansion has arrived.
Digital ID can now be used for Apple Account and age verification for Apple services
Age verification for online applications and services is a hot topic in law and public debate. Some recent prominent examples include the UK’s Cyber Security Act and Discord’s controversial age verification rollout.
Here in the US, there is a wave of work happening at the state and federal levels to re-verify age.
And according to a recent Apple support document, Digital ID is ready to be used for age verification purposes.
The document is titled, “If you’re asked to verify your age” and includes instructions on what to do if you see an age verification prompt when creating a new Apple Account or using Apple services.
Apple says you may be asked to prove you’re an adult when: creating a new Apple Account, updating your device software, trying to change certain security settings, or downloading or purchasing apps with an 18+ age rating.
Several age verification methods are supported, including the following:
Use the approved method: You can use your driver’s license or government-issued ID, or credit card to prove you’re an adult. Passports, debit cards, and gift cards are not supported*. […]
*A Digital ID in Apple Wallet created using a US passport can be used to verify your identity.
With that italicized line, Digital ID is officially accepted as an approved age verification method for Apple Accounts and Apple services.
This means that users will not have to have another type of ID that is too sensitive. They can simply use their secure, private Digital ID from Apple Wallet.
Currently, I think there are not many users who have a Digital ID and need to prove their age to Apple. That’s because the previous policy changes happened overseas, not in the US. But based on the way things are trending, there’s a good chance that will change soon.
Have you used an Apple Wallet digital ID yet at an airport or for age verification? Let us know in the comments.
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