Launch Of Digital IDs Is 'Game Changer' For IL Residents: Giannoulias

In a first for the state, Illinois residents will soon be able to securely add their Illinois-driver's license or state ID to Apple Wallet and present them using their iPhone and Apple Watch. Launching Wednesday, the Illinois Mobile ID program "marks a new era of convenience and digital innovation," according to Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias.

"This is a game changer for Illinois residents," Giannoulias said Tuesday during an announcement press conference. "Your ID can live right on your iPhone — ready to use at airports, restaurants, and bars across the state. This launch brings together security, privacy, and convenience in a way that will make life easier for millions of people. We promised innovative solutions, and today, we're delivering."

According to Giannoulias, residents will be able to present the IDs online and in-apps at select businesses and organizations, and at TSA checkpoints at more than 250 airports in the U.S., including O'Hare, Midway and Lambert.

While the initial rollout only applies to Apple Wallet, he said it will soon expand to Google and Samsung, "ensuring that every Illinois resident with a mobile phone has access to secure, digital identification."

Giannoulias said digital IDs will not replace physical IDs at this time, as residents must continue to carry their physical ID.

With the launch, Illinois joins 12 other states, as well as the territory of Puerto Rico, offering driver's licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet to their residents.

How to add an Illinois driver's license or state ID to Apple Wallet

According to Giannoulias, adding a license or state ID to Apple Wallet can done in a "few easy steps." Residents can tap the Add (+) button at the top of the screen in Wallet on their iPhone, select "Driver's License or State ID," and follow the onscreen instructions to start the setup and verification process.

Residents will then be asked to use their iPhone to scan their physical driver's license or state ID card and take a selfie, which will be securely provided to the issuing state for verification. As an additional security step, residents will also be prompted to complete a series of facial and head movements during the setup process. Once verified by the issuing state, the resident’s ID or driver’s license will be added to Wallet.

Visit www.ilsos.gov/mobile for step-by-step instructions and to learn more about the launch.