As reported by Cody Thompson with Spectrum News 1, Ohio residents can now add their driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet for use at businesses, certain apps, and airports. This initiative is a result of a collaboration between InnovateOhio, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), and Apple.
To add an ID, users simply open the Apple Wallet app, tap the + button, and follow the prompts to add their license or state ID. This new feature aims to enhance convenience and security for Ohioans. “Ohio has always been a leader in innovation,” said Governor Mike DeWine. Ohio is the fifth state to offer this service, showcasing its commitment to leveraging technology for better service delivery.
Businesses can also benefit from this update through the Ohio Mobile ID Check app, which facilitates age verification and ID reading via iPhone. Lt. Gov. Jon Husted highlighted this as part of InnovateOhio’s efforts to make Ohio a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. Since 2019, these tech advancements have saved Ohioans over 7 million trips to BMV locations.
To use this feature, users need an iPhone 8 or later with iOS 16.5, or an Apple Watch Series 4 or later with watchOS 9.5. The ID information shared through Apple Wallet is encrypted, ensuring privacy and security, with approval processes handled by the state issuing authority.
TSA also supports this development, noting it streamlines the security process at airports. The introduction of IDs in Apple Wallet represents a significant step towards modernizing identification and enhancing user convenience in Ohio.
