Apple Expands Digital ID Feature for Age Verification
"Digital IDs are now an approved method for age verification across Apple Accounts and services."
Apple has broadened the utility of its Digital ID feature in the Wallet app, enabling it for age verification across Apple Accounts and various Apple services. Previously restricted solely to TSA checkpoints, the feature has now been added to Apple's official list of approved age verification methods.
Key Details
- Creation Method: Digital IDs can be generated in Apple Wallet using a valid US passport.
- Verification Triggers: Users may be prompted to verify their age when:
- Creating a new Apple Account
- Updating device software
- Changing certain safety settings
- Downloading apps rated 18+
- Accepted Methods: According to Apple's support documentation, the following are acceptable for verification: a driver's license, a government-issued ID, a credit card, or a Digital ID stored in Apple Wallet.
- Current Reach: The Digital ID feature is currently accepted at TSA checkpoints in over 250 US airports.
Context
US states have been slow to adopt digital driver's license partnerships with Apple. In response, Apple introduced the Digital ID feature in iOS 26 as an alternative, leveraging US passports as the primary source document. This expansion comes as age verification remains a topic of significant legislative interest in both the United States and the United Kingdom.