
In Florida, you can now store your digital ID in the Apple Wallet on your iPhone, making it easier to access and use your identification. This feature is available for certain types of IDs.
To get started, you'll need to have an iPhone with iOS 16 or later installed, as well as an Apple ID. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) has made this digital ID available for eligible residents.
The digital ID is stored in the Wallet app, where you can view and manage your ID. It's also available in the Apple Health app, where you can use it to prove your identity.
Explore further: How Do I Use Digital Wallet on My Phone
Getting Started
To add your Florida digital ID to Apple Wallet, start by opening the Wallet app on your iPhone.
Tap the Add button to begin the process.
Choose whether you want to add your license or ID to your iPhone only or to both your iPhone and paired Apple Watch.
You'll need to scan the front and back of your license or ID, so find a well-lit area with a simple dark background.
Make sure your image is clear and in focus before submitting.
For another approach, see: Google Wallet Digital Id
Digital ID Details
Currently, digital IDs for 11 issuing states can be scanned by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at airport security checkpoints, but only at specific TSA checkpoints.
You can add your driver's license to your iPhone and Apple Watch using the Wallet app, which can be a convenient way to carry your ID with you.
To add your license, open the Wallet app on your iPhone, tap the Add button, and follow the onscreen instructions to scan the front and back of your license.
Here's an interesting read: California Digital Driver's License Apple Wallet
Mobile ID Benefits
Digital IDs have the potential to simplify our lives, and it's already happening in some states. 11 issuing states allow the TSA to scan their digital IDs at airport security checkpoints, but only at specific checkpoints.
Having a mobile ID can be convenient for traveling. You can store your ID digitally and access it easily when going through security.
Some states require law enforcement to accept mobile IDs in lieu of a physical card. This can be a big advantage for people who don't have their physical ID on them.
Here's a breakdown of some states that are already using mobile IDs:
- Virginia's state pilot program allows the TSA to scan mobile IDs.
Digital License for iPhone: Obtaining Smart ID
The Florida Smart ID app is available for download from the App Store on your iPhone. You can launch the app on your smartphone, select the type of verification needed, and present it for scanning by a business or law enforcement without having to leave your hand.
To get the Florida Smart ID app, simply download it from the App Store on your iPhone.
The app description states that your smart device does not leave your hand when being verified, making it a contact-free and convenient way to display proof of identity or age.
Here are the system requirements to use the Florida Smart ID app: iPhone 8 or newer with iOS 16.5 or later.
You can also add your mobile driver's license to Apple Wallet, which requires an iPhone 8 or newer with iOS 16.5 or later.
To add your driver's license to Apple Wallet, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings » Wallet & Apple Pay » Add Card or tap the plus (+) button at the top of the Wallet app on your iPhone.
- Select "Driver's License or State ID" from the list of options, then tap on your state's name.
- Tap the "Continue" button to begin scanning your driver's license or state ID.
Note that if your state is not listed, it's not yet compatible with Apple Wallet.
Security and Functionality
The Florida Smart ID is designed with security in mind, featuring an extra layer of protection with a digital pin number or fingerprint required to access it.
Data privacy is also a top concern, with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FDHSMV) stating that the app doesn't use geolocation tagging, so you don't have to worry about your location being tracked.
The app won't even load without one of these secure methods, ensuring that your personal info stays safe.
Adding a License
Adding a License is a relatively straightforward process, requiring an iPhone 8 or newer with iOS 16.5 or later. If you have an Apple Watch, you'll need Series 4 or newer with WatchOS 9.5 or later.
To add your license to your iPhone, open the Wallet app and tap the Add button. Then, select "Driver's License or State ID" from the list of options and choose your state or region.
For another approach, see: Why Is Apple Pay Later Going Away

You'll need to scan the front and back of your license or ID, using a well-lit area and a simple dark background to ensure a clear and in-focus image. If you want to add your license to your Apple Watch later, you can do so by opening the Apple Watch app, tapping the My Watch tab, and scrolling down to Wallet & Apple Pay.
Some states, like California, may have specific requirements, such as an iPhone XS or newer with iOS 17.5 or later, or an Apple Watch Series 4 or newer with at least watchOS 10. If your state is not listed, it's not yet compatible with Apple Wallet.
If you're adding a new state to Apple Wallet, you may see a notification that the service is currently busy, and you'll be asked if you want to be notified when it becomes available.
Is My Data Safe?
Your digital driver's license is stored in the Florida Smart ID app, which doesn't use geolocation tagging or track your device or app usage.
The FDHSMV ensures that your data is private, but it's essential to keep your location services turned off to prevent any potential issues.
You can rest assured that the Florida Smart ID won't track how often or where you use it, as stated by the FDHSMV.
Additionally, the app requires a digital pin number or your fingerprint to load, adding an extra layer of security to your data.
Take a look at this: Digital Wallet Data Cloud
Apple Wallet Integration
To add your Florida digital ID to Apple Wallet, you'll need an iPhone 8 or newer with iOS 16.5 or later. If you have an Apple Watch, it needs to be Series 4 or newer with WatchOS 9.5 or later. However, if you live in California, you'll need an iPhone XS or newer with iOS 17.5 or later, or an Apple Watch Series 4 or newer with at least watchOS 10.
You can start by opening the Wallet app on your iPhone and tapping the Add button. Then, select "Driver's License or State ID" from the list of options, and choose Florida as your state. If your state is not listed, it's not yet compatible with Apple Wallet.
Check this out: Remote Id
To scan your ID, use a well-lit area and a simple dark background. Make sure the image is clear and in focus before submitting. If you're asked to rescan, you can do so or continue anyway.
Here's a step-by-step guide to adding your Florida digital ID to Apple Wallet:
- Open the Wallet app on your iPhone and tap the Add button.
- Select "Driver's License or State ID" and choose Florida as your state.
- Scan the front and back of your ID using a well-lit area and a simple dark background.
- Follow the onscreen instructions to submit your ID for verification.
- Wait for the verification process to complete, and your ID will be added to your Apple Wallet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I add my Florida ID to my Apple Wallet?
To add your Florida ID to Apple Wallet, open the Wallet app on your iPhone and follow the on-screen instructions to scan the front and back of your license or ID. Choose to add it to your iPhone only or to both your iPhone and paired Apple Watch.
Does Florida have a digital driver's license?
Yes, Florida offers a digital driver's license option called Florida Smart ID, which serves as a secure backup to the physical license. This digital ID provides a convenient alternative for Floridians.
Is the Florida Smart ID being discontinued?
Yes, the Florida Smart ID app is being discontinued. It has been removed from app stores as the state searches for a new app developer.
Sources
- https://support.apple.com/en-us/111803
- https://ios.gadgethacks.com/how-to/8-states-support-digital-drivers-licenses-apple-wallet-which-states-are-next-0385606/
- https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/2024/07/11/florida-pulls-digital-drivers-license-app-stores-without-explanation/
- https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/2024/01/08/florida-drivers-license-digital-smart-app-california/72145314007/
- https://idscan.net/mobile-drivers-licenses-mdl-state-adoption/
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