Illinois has announced plans to implement digital driver’s licenses and state IDs in Apple Wallet by the end of 2025, joining several other states in modernizing their identification systems. The initiative follows successful implementations in states like California and Maryland, where residents are already using digital IDs through Apple Wallet.
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is collaborating with Apple to develop the digital ID program, which will allow residents to add their driver’s licenses and state IDs to their iPhone or Apple Watch. “We’re excited to have kickstarted our work with Apple – a company that shares our commitment to data security – to provide IDs in Apple Wallet that will offer convenience and privacy for Illinoisans,” said Secretary Alexi Giannoulias.
The digital IDs will be available at no additional cost and will function alongside physical cards rather than replacing them. Residents will be able to use these digital credentials both in person and within mobile applications. The Secretary of State’s office has established a dedicated webpage at ilsos.gov/mDL where residents can register for the optional mobile driver’s license program.
Before the launch, the state will conduct extensive testing to ensure data protection. “The office’s first step will be to develop the highest standards of security and conduct rigorous testing to ensure that residents’ sensitive information and privacy are protected,” said Giannoulias. The security-first approach follows the ISO 18013-5 standard for mobile driver’s licenses, which has become the global benchmark for secure digital ID implementation.
The initiative represents part of a broader trend in digital identification adoption across the United States. Several other jurisdictions, including Arizona, Colorado, California, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Maryland, New Mexico, Ohio, and Puerto Rico, have announced their intention to implement similar digital ID capabilities in Apple Wallet, though they have not yet launched these services. The expansion of digital ID support comes as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continues to expand its acceptance of digital IDs at airport security checkpoints nationwide.
The digital transformation of state identification matches recent federal initiatives to modernize digital identity systems while maintaining robust privacy protections and security standards. The implementation will make Illinois the latest state to embrace the growing trend toward secure, convenient digital identification solutions.
Sources: NBC Chicago, Apple Insider
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