Oklahoma introduces digital driver’s license for Apple devices
Oklahoma residents can now store their driver’s license in their Apple Wallet, but officials emphasize the importance of keeping a physical ID due to current limitations.
Oklahoma has become the 16th state to offer digital identification, allowing residents to add their driver’s license to their Apple Wallet for use on iPhones and Apple Watches.
“If you have an Apple iPhone or a watch, you can actually add your Oklahoma credential to that Apple Wallet,” said Jay Doyle, CEO of Service Oklahoma.
To use the digital ID, users open their Apple Wallet, select the Oklahoma ID, double-click to present it, and tap the other party’s reader.
“You tap the actual reader app on the other person’s device. It takes less than probably 3 or 4 seconds for it to pop up. You then authenticate again that it’s you with the biometric scanner on your face, and then you’re good to go,” Doyle said.
Unlike a physical ID, the digital version does not display a photo, full name, or all personal information.
“I think one of the benefits of a digital ID is that it actually makes it a bit more secure to make sure that your information only is relevant to those that need to see it,” Doyle said.
The digital ID is accepted at more than 250 airports across the country, including those in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Lawton, and Stillwater. Starting Sept. 14, it can also be used for age verification when purchasing tobacco and alcohol.
However, the digital ID cannot currently be used during traffic stops.
“We’re actively working with law enforcement to make those traffic stops even more secure, to be able to use the digital credential with law enforcement,” Doyle said.
Despite the convenience of the digital ID, Service Oklahoma recommends residents continue carrying their physical ID.
“We absolutely always recommend that you carry your physical credential as well as your digital ID as well. I think it’s a companion to the physical card,” Doyle said.
Although the digital ID is currently available only for Apple devices, Service Oklahoma is working to expand access to other devices in the future.