Georgia launches digital driver’s license and ID option

FILE PHOTO Apple announced Monday that it has partnered with several states that will allow residents to add driver’s licenses or other state IDs to their digital wallets with its new iOS 15. (PHOTO: Getty Photos/State of Georgia)

By WSBTV.com News Staff

ATLANTA — Georgians now have a digital option for driver’s licenses, the Georgia Department of Driver Services announced on Thursday.

Starting this week, the Georgia Department of Driver Services will begin to offer Georgia residents the option to add a valid, Georgia-issued driver’s license and ID to their iPhone and Apple Watch.

This will allow Georgians to use their digital license and ID at select TSA security checkpoints, including some at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport.

Arizona, Maryland, and Colorado are the three other states that had previously introduced digital state ID options.

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“As the No. 1 state for business, Georgia recognizes the value of finding new and innovative ways to remain at the forefront of emerging trends,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “I want to thank our great team at DDS for working with their partners in the private sector, as well as the TSA, to make this exciting new service possible. I look forward to this option being widely available for hardworking Georgians and visitors alike.”

To get started, Georgia residents must have a valid and easily readable Georgia driver’s license or ID card, as well as an iPhone 8 or later, or Apple Watch 4 or later, with the latest version of iOS or watchOS, according to officials.

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To add your driver’s license or state ID to your Apple Wallet, tap the + button at the top of the screen in Apple Wallet on your iPhone select ‘Driver’s license or State ID,” and follow the on-screen instructions to start the set-up and verification process.

Officials said that it could take up to 48 hours for Georgia to appear as an option in Apple Wallet.

DDS officials said that Georgians must continue to carry their physical driver’s license or ID with them and that the digital version is a free and voluntary option.

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