Google Wallet Now Supports US Passports as Digital IDs, With Some Limitations
Key Takeaways
- Google Wallet now supports adding US passports as digital IDs, though physical passports are still required in certain situations.
- US passport holders can use their digital ID at select TSA checkpoints, but it won’t be accepted at border control or immigration.
- Google states that the feature will be available to eligible users in the “coming weeks,” despite being first announced in September.
Google Wallet has long allowed users to store multiple forms of identification digitally, eliminating the need to carry physical IDs. In July, a leak revealed Google’s plans to integrate digital US passports into the app, a feature the company confirmed in September along with additional details. While Google didn’t provide a specific release date for this functionality at the time, it indicated that beta testing would commence soon. Now, several months later, Google is rolling out the feature. According to The Verge, users can now add their US passports to Google Wallet by following the same steps outlined in September.
However, as the company noted previously, this feature is still in its “early stages.” Consequently, travelers may still need to carry their physical passport, as digital IDs cannot yet be used for border control or immigration. A Google spokesperson confirmed that this new digital ID feature is not currently accepted at these checkpoints.
But it will still come in handy
Google Wallet to Support US Passports at TSA Checkpoints, With Limited Availability
While there are some restrictions, US passport holders can still use Google Wallet to pass through select TSA checkpoints. The TSA website offers a detailed map showing which airports currently support digital IDs. However, not all US states and airports are compatible with this feature yet, though it’s expected to expand over time. Jenny Cheng, VP and GM of Google Wallet, told The Verge that the feature will be rolled out to “all eligible users in the coming weeks,” indicating it may not be immediately available to everyone.
Google Wallet Eyes Expanding Use of Digital IDs Beyond Airports
Google plans to extend the use of digital IDs beyond airports, with potential applications for “account recovery, identity verification, and even car rentals.” Once available, adding a passport to Google Wallet should only take a few minutes, involving scanning the passport details and chip, along with a selfie video for verification.
While the process is quick, it could save valuable time at select US airports. However, as a general rule, it’s advisable to carry your physical passport when traveling, at least until digital IDs gain broader acceptance across airports.