You use your phone for practically everything these days, including shopping, browsing the internet, and connecting with others through calls, texts, emails and countless mobile apps.
But did you know you can also use your Android device to create and store a digital ID pass using your U.S. passport?
The ID pass can be used to verify your identity at participating TSA checkpoints and in some apps and websites. We’ll explain how to add your passport to Google Wallet, where you can use your digital ID and why you’ll still need to carry your physical passport when you travel.
Where you can use your digital passport
One of the main places you can use an ID pass created from your passport is at participating TSA checkpoints when traveling domestically. You can use the digital ID to verify your identity instead of handing over a physical ID.
Google Wallet also supports TSA PreCheck Touchless ID at participating airports. Eligible travelers can use facial recognition to verify their identity at security, potentially making the screening process quicker.
However, acceptance of digital IDs still varies by airport and checkpoint. You also can't use an ID pass for international travel, and technical issues can happen. That's why you should continue carrying your physical passport or another accepted form of identification when you travel.
Beyond the airport, participating apps and websites may accept an ID pass to verify your age or identity. Acceptance is still limited, so don't rely on your digital ID as your only form of identification while on the go.
Technical requirements to add your digital passport to your Google Wallet
If you want to add your passport to your Google Wallet, you must:
- Have a phone running Android 9 or newer that supports NFC
- Turn on NFC to create your ID pass
- Turn on Bluetooth and Nearby Devices to use your ID pass
- Set a screen lock with a PIN, pattern, password or fingerprint
- Have a valid U.S. passport
Important note: You can only create one ID pass from your passport, and it can only be stored on one device at a time. If you want to add it to a new phone, you'll first need to remove it from your old device.
How to add your digital passport to your Google Wallet
Adding your digital passport to your Google Wallet is a fairly straightforward process. Here’s what to do:
- Open the Google Wallet app.
- Tap "Add to Wallet."
- Tap "ID."
- Select "ID pass."
- Select the United States.
- Tap "Get started" and follow the prompts.
- Scan your passport's information page or enter the information manually.
- Scan the security chip inside the back cover of your passport.
- Follow the prompts to verify your identity. Depending on the verification method you choose, you may be asked to record a video of your face.
- Follow the remaining prompts to finish creating your ID pass.
Once your information has been verified, you'll receive a notification that your ID pass is available in Google Wallet.
How to use your digital passport
Participating TSA checkpoints, apps and websites may have different procedures for accepting digital IDs. At a supported TSA checkpoint, you can typically present your ID pass by following these steps:
- Turn on Bluetooth and make sure Nearby Devices is enabled.
- Open Google Wallet and select your ID pass.
- Hold your phone near the TSA reader or scan the QR code provided at the checkpoint.
- Review the information the TSA is requesting.
- Tap "Continue" to agree to share the requested information.
- Verify your identity using your PIN, password, pattern or fingerprint.
- Follow any additional instructions at the checkpoint, which may include having your photo taken.
Once the process is complete, you'll see a blue checkmark on your phone.
Important reminder: Your ID pass isn't a replacement for your physical passport or another accepted form of identification. Continue carrying your physical ID when you travel.
Ready to remove your ID pass from Google Wallet? You can delete it directly through the Google Wallet app. If you no longer have access to your phone, such as if it was lost, stolen or replaced, you can also remove the ID pass remotely through your Google Account.
Google offers step-by-step instructions for removing an ID pass from your device or remotely.
