Google Wallet Will Let You Create Digital ID for U.S. Passport
Google revealed earlier this month that is will start beta testing the option to create a digital ID for U.S. passports which can be stored in Google Wallet and used at TSA checkpoints in almost half the country. That includes states like New York, California, Florida, Texas, and Illinois.
This new ID pass works at select TSA checkpoints, saving you time and stress at the airport. However, Google says that it is only valid when traveling domestically, and it still advises that users keep their physical IDs handy as the technology is in its early stages. Google says it’s also working with partners to use digital IDs for other purposes, like car rentals, account recovery, and identity verification.
To crate an ID pass, just select the prompt in the Google Wallet app to “create an ID pass with your U.S. passport” and follow the instructions to scan the security chip in the back of your passport. You’ll be asked to take a selfie video to verify your identity, and Google Wallet will notify you when your ID pass is ready (typically within a few minutes).
Google Wallet keeps your digital IDs safe with Android’s advanced security that is private by design. ID passes are stored encrypted, meaning you must authenticate using your fingerprint, PIN or passcode before the ID pass is viewable or shareable. You’re in control of the information shared: before using your digital ID for identity verification, you can review what information is being requested.
Google also announced that more state-issued IDs can be added to Google Wallet. It recently expanded the ability for Android users in California to save their state-issued ID or driver’s license in their Google Wallet app, and in the coming months, those in Iowa, New Mexico or Ohio will also be able to save their state-issued ID in Google Wallet.
