Technologies
It’s Easy to Add Your Driver’s License to Your iPhone or Apple Watch if You Live in These 9 States
Digitize your state ID to cruise through the airport security line.
While some phone makers are working overtime to squeeze AI into every single feature, Apple is taking a more fundamental step to simplify travel by digitizing your driver’s license. You can now add your state ID to your iPhone or Apple Watch using Apple Wallet, allowing you to breeze through airport security checkpoints card-free.
Living in California, I was interested in giving it a shot to see if it was as easy as it looks to be. And it is, as long as you have the right iPhone and OS version. Older iPhones, depending on the state you live in, may create some problems. Apple says digitized driver’s licenses will work on iPhone 8 and later, but it’s a little more complicated than that.
Right now, digital IDs are primarily used to go through TSA checkpoints in certain airports when flying domestically, but that’ll likely change in the future. Want to use your digital ID at your favorite bar or nightclub? We’re not there yet.
Below, I describe my experience, the hiccups I encountered on the way and things that you should know if you plan on adding your driver’s license to Apple Wallet. I’ll also break down how you can add your ID to your iPhone, step by step.
For more, don’t miss these low-key iOS 26 features we’re excited for.
These states support digital IDs on iPhones right now
Only a handful of states support digital IDs in Apple Wallet. One key factor is how each state implements its Mobile Driver’s License system. For instance, Louisiana, New York, Utah and Virginia all support mobile driver’s licenses but require separate apps for digital IDs.
States and regions that support digital IDs in Apple Wallet:
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Iowa
- Maryland
- New Mexico
- Ohio
- Puerto Rico
Some states originally announced to support Apple’s digital ID haven’t quite gotten there yet.
The number of states supported in Apple Wallet is about half of what the TSA currently allows. Collectively, it accepts digital IDs across Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Samsung Wallet and state-based mobile apps in 15 states.
What are the iPhone requirements to add your driver’s license to Apple Wallet?
Where you live is just the start. You also have to have the right iPhone model and the right software setup.
Here are the minimum requirements that Apple lists:
- An iPhone 8 or later with the latest version of iOS
- Have Face or Touch ID enabled on your device
- Have two-factor authentication enabled on your Apple account
- A license or ID from a participating state or territory
- Your device’s region set to the United States
I’ll have more to say in a bit about that iPhone 8 and iOS requirement and a catch I ran into.
My experience adding my ID to my iPhone was easy
For testing purposes, I used the iPhone 16E.
The process of adding the ID was simple. I scanned the front and the back of my ID and the next step was to verify my identity. This wasn’t nearly as nerve-wracking as I thought it would be. Instead, it took a live photo of my face for 2.5 seconds.
After that, more verification was required. This came in a series of different photos, with prompts directing me to close my eyes, open my mouth, smile and tip my head down. This verification process took about three minutes. (Or longer in my case, as I got distracted writing notes about the process and then found I had to restart the whole process.)
Then, after I submitted those photos, there was another verification step, presumably with the photos relayed to the California DMV. A screen message told me that I would receive a notification when there was an update. I expected this to take a long time, but not even 10 minutes later, a notification telling me that my ID was ready to use popped up. That was easy.
What about older iPhones?
So, not every phone you think might work will actually do so. The first time I tested adding my ID, I was using an iPhone 8 Plus. But when I arrived at the setup page within Apple Wallet, I was given eight states to choose from, and California wasn’t one of them.
That surprised me. I’d found a helpful Apple support article that explained the requirements for adding a driver’s license or state-issued ID to Apple Wallet and it seemed like I shouldn’t have any trouble.
At first, I thought the roadblock was that I hadn’t set up Touch ID yet. But no, California was still not on my list of eight states. (Equally confusing, a colleague of mine also tried this with an iPhone 8 and Apple Wallet only listed four states.)
I went back to the Apple support article and looked for fine print, and sure enough, there it was. I’d ignored the asterisk in the requirements, because California has had its Mobile Driver’s License program set up for some time now.
The fine print at the very bottom of the page states, «For California, ID in Apple Wallet requires iPhone XS or later with iOS 17.5 or later.» (For Puerto Rico, if you want to add your driver’s license or ID to Apple Wallet, you’ll need to have an iPhone XS or later with iOS 18.1.)
So if you’re holding onto an iPhone 8 or iPhone X and live in California, you won’t be able to add your driver’s license to your iPhone because of the lack of software support. iOS 16 is the last supported version of the operating system for iPhone 8 and X models.
How to add your ID or driver’s license to Apple Wallet
If you live in a state that supports digital IDs for Apple Wallet, it’s easy to add one. After it’s added, you’ll need to verify your identity, which can take a little longer but it’s still a straightforward process.
- Open Apple Wallet.
- Tap the Add button.
- Tap Driver’s License or ID and select your location.
- If applicable, choose whether you want to add your ID to your iPhone only or your iPhone and your Apple Watch.
- Follow the steps to scan your license or ID.
(Make sure you scan your ID in a well-lit environment and that the image is in focus.)
Once it’s scanned, you’ll be prompted to confirm your identity with a selfie photo. According to Apple, you may be asked to complete a number of facial or head movements for identification purposes.
To ensure an easier verification process, Apple suggests that you:
- Stand in front of a plain background with neutral, light paint.
- Be in a well-lit area, ideally indoors.
- Take off sunglasses, masks, hats or other accessories that could block your face.
- Hold your iPhone steady.
When you’re finished, submit your information by confirming with Touch or Face ID. Your biometrics will be bound to the ID, so only you can use it.
How to transfer your digital ID to another iPhone
If you upgrade your iPhone, you’ll need to transfer your ID or driver’s license to it.
- During initial setup, tap Wallet.
- Select your ID.
- Follow the steps.
- Tap to confirm you want to move your driver’s license or ID to the new device.
So, now what?
Your digital ID isn’t just a photo of your ID that you can pull up within Apple Wallet. In fact, you don’t even see a full image of your physical ID. In order to actually view your information from your digital ID, you’ll need to tap on your ID «card» in Apple Wallet, tap the «i» at the top-right of the screen, and then tap State ID info or Card Information (the wording may be different depending on what version of iOS your iPhone is running). From there, it will show your ID photo as well as essential pieces of information from your physical ID.
TSA checkpoints that support digital IDs require a dedicated scanner, so the process may not necessarily feel like it’s faster than showing your physical ID to the agent.
Here’s a video of the process via the Maryland Department of Transportation:
The idea of a digital ID is pretty convenient but overall, it probably won’t save you a meaningful amount of time. Couple that fact with its incredibly limited use cases right now and the fact that merchant or event adoption will require investment in proper hardware and it’s pretty easy to see just how far off we are from ditching physical IDs.
Selling or trading in your iPhone? Do this first.
When you move on from a phone that has your ID on it, you’ll want to do the same thing you do with other sensitive info like credit or debit cards and passwords: Remove it.
So before you wipe your iPhone to sell or trade it in, you should manually remove your ID first. Here’s how to do it.
- Go to Apple Wallet and tap your ID in the list
- Tap the «i» button at the top right of the screen
- Tap Remove State ID (or Driver’s License)
- Read the warning that pops up and tap Remove
Digital passports are coming to Apple Wallet with iOS 26
While states are taking time to implement digital ID systems, Apple announced a feature coming in iOS 26 this year: You can add a digital passport to Apple Wallet.
When that feature is available, iPhone users will be able to scan their passports to create a digital version for identity verification during domestic travel. You won’t be able to use it for international travel and it’s not a full replacement for a physical passport (so keep your physical one on you) but it should work at the 250-plus supported TSA checkpoints.
During its WWDC keynote in June, Apple said that the digital ID made from your passport can also be used «in apps and in person» but it didn’t give any specifics.
This is essentially what can be done on Android through Google Wallet.
Verify with Wallet ID verification could make ordering alcohol easier
Also headed to iPhones this fall is an easier way for you to prove your age using your digital ID. Say you want to have a bottle of wine sent to your place via Uber Eats. Typically, when the driver arrives, you’ll need to present your ID and have it scanned to complete the transaction but with the new Verify with Wallet, your stored digital ID will be used to verify your age. (I do wonder if things might get more complicated when the delivery arrives if you’re not the one receiving it.)
Verify with Wallet will be supported by Chime, Turo, Uber Eats and U.S. Bank.
For more, don’t miss what you should know about flying domestically without a Real ID in 2025.
Technologies
A US-Only TikTok Could Be Coming. What We Know So Far About the Replacement App
Development of a new app to replace the current version of TikTok for US users is reportedly in the works right now.
A US-only version of the TikTok mobile app is being developed by the vertical video social media network’s owner ByteDance. It will replace the current version of TikTok being used in the US ahead of a September deadline for the Chinese company to divest ownership, according to a report this week by The Information.
The new app is codenamed «M2» and would launch on Sept. 5. Users in the US would be required to switch from the existing app to the new one, the report said, citing anonymous sources. US President Donald Trump recently extended a deadline for the owner to sell its US-based TikTok assets by Sept. 17.
Earlier this month, Trump said he found a buyer for the company, which he called a group of «very, very wealthy people.»
The administration has continued to extend deadlines for TikTok to remain operational since January when it was shut down for less than 24 hours. The company reportedly has 170 million users in the US.
A representative for TikTok did not respond to a request for comment.
According to The Information, the reason for the new app version is also due to an Apple App Store restriction that does not allow multiple versions of an app for different regions to appear in the same listing.
What a new TikTok app would mean for you
If the report is accurate, it would mean that at the very least, anybody who uses the TikTok mobile app would eventually be required to migrate to a new US-centric version.
But there’s likely to be a lengthy grace period, according to The Information’s sources: the old app may not disappear completely until March 2026, giving TikTok users six months to make the transition.
Still, it could be disruptive for those whose business or brand relies on the platform. «Anytime there is a migration or a major feature revamp on any network, it certainly creates work and worry,» said Jennie Smythe, an author and founder and CEO of Girlilla Marketing, which has worked with clients including Willie Nelson, Terry Crews and Iliza Shlesinger.
«There are concerns that audiences will also make the move and if the migration will be worth the effort,» Smythe told CNET in an email. «The bigger concern besides the migration are the features and data that will be available to us in the creator economy as well as the audience restrictions (i.e. is our content/audience also restricted to US only?).»
It’s unclear if the new app would include any other major changes or improvements over the existing app or if it would restrict or filter viewing content from other regions in ways that differ from the current version.
Technologies
Best T-Mobile Plans: How to Choose and Which Ones to Pick in 2025
T-Mobile’s plans have changed this year in name and also the services they include. We break down what’s offered.
Our Experts
T-Mobile plans look a lot different than they did a few months ago. The carrier hasn’t just retired the name “Go5G.” It’s added services, introduced a five-year price guarantee and improved its 5G infrastructure, which has led it to being named the Best Wireless Network in the US by Ookla. (Disclosure: Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.) T-Mobile has also added the T-Satellite texting service powered by Starlink satellites, removing geographic limits to how you can get connected. If you’re looking for perks, the company is still committed to its Magenta Status perks like T-Mobile Tuesdays and a new DoorDash deal that offers a year of DashPass delivery. On the downside, none of the current plans include taxes and fees, which get tacked on above the listed plan prices.
MOBILE DEALS OF THE WEEK
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$449 (save $50)
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Read more: Our Guide to the Best Cell Phone Plans
Pros
- T-Mobile’s 5G network is generally robust
- Plan includes 50GB of high-speed data in the US
- Phone can be used as a hotspot
- Unlimited calls, texts and data in Canada and Mexico
Cons
- Data in Canada and Mexico limited to very slow 2G speeds
- Hotspot is limited to 3G speeds
- No five-year price guarantee
- Everyone must be on the same plan
- Taxes and fees aren’t included in monthly cost
The T-Mobile Essentials Saver plan offers unlimited data usage and includes 50GB of «Premium» data, which is the fastest-capable 5G rate available in your area. After 50GB, speeds are reduced to 3G levels for the remainder of the month. However, that Premium may not always be so premium: T-Mobile notes in the fine print that «Essentials customers may notice speeds lower than other customers and further reduction if using >50GB/month, due to data prioritization.»
You can use your phone as a mobile hotspot, also with unlimited data, but at 3G speeds. High-speed hotspot access is available as an add-on. Internationally, calls, text and data are unlimited while in Canada and Mexico, but the data is restricted to 2G speeds. Elsewhere, calls cost 25 cents per minute, and texts are unlimited at no extra charge when you’re in roughly 215 countries.
As for other T-Mobile features, you’ll have to look further up the plan menu. Essentials Saver and Essentials don’t carry the five-year price guarantee found in the Experience plans, nor does it include T-Satellite texting access, but you can add the Starlink-based service as an optional add-on when it launches on July 23. Perks are also reserved for the costlier plans, which means no included Netflix, Apple TV Plus or Hulu streaming thrown in.
The Essentials Saver plan costs $50 a month for a single line, $80 for two lines and $100 for three lines, the maximum number allowed on this plan. If you need three or more lines, the Essentials plan is a better value.
Why we like it
Providers want to push you toward their more expensive offerings, but they also know there’s a place for cost-conscious people who want just the basics. Essentials Saver includes 50GB of fast data before the data rate slows down. And even though the hotspot feature is especially pokey at 3G speeds, it’s still there in a pinch if needed.
Who it’s best for
The Essentials Saver plan is great for individuals or pairs who don’t want to spend much for a cellular plan and aren’t looking for perks or fast data.
Who shouldn’t get it
The plan isn’t for people seeking features such as larger amounts of premium data, regular hotspot access or included perks, or folks who need to set up a family or group with three or more lines.
Customer service options
• Online: T-Mobile
• Phone: 1-855-315-6244
• Store: Store locator
• App: T-Life app
Pros
- T-Mobile’s 5G network is generally robust
- Plan includes 50GB of high-speed data in the US
- Phone can be used as a hotspot
- Unlimited calls, texts and data in Canada and Mexico
- Can have up to six lines on an account
- Third line free is a better deal than Essentials Saver
Cons
- Data in Canada and Mexico limited to very slow 2G speeds
- Hotspot is limited to 3G speeds
- No five-year price guarantee
- Everyone must be on the same plan
- Taxes and fees aren’t included in monthly cost
If you compare the specifics of T-Mobile’s Essentials and Essentials Saver plans, you might think the company forgot to update one or the other — they’re Essential-ly the same. With both, you get 50GB of fast Premium 5G data (depending on the network capabilities in your area), which drops to 3G speeds of still-unlimited data after that allotment is used up. You can use your phone as a mobile hotspot with unlimited data, but only at 3G speeds and restricted to paltry 2G speeds when you’re in Canada or Mexico. In those two countries, calls, text and data are unlimited, while calls made from around 215 other countries are charged at 25 cents a minute.
The Essentials plan also doesn’t include perks such as streaming video from Netflix or Apple TV Plus, nor the five-year price guarantee found on the Experience More and Experience Beyond plans. T-Satellite service is also not included, though it can be added for $10 a month when it launches on July 23.
Where Essentials comes out ahead of Essentials Saver is the number of lines you can have on your account. Essentials Saver is limited to just three, but Essentials can accommodate six lines. In fact, a trio of people will save money going with Essentials due to a free third-line deal, paying $90 a month (plus taxes and fees) for a $10 savings over Essentials Saver.
However, if you need just one or two lines, Essentials Saver is still the better deal. A single line on Saver is still the better offer at $50 a month compared with $60 for the same features on Essentials, and two lines on Saver costs $80 a month compared with $90 for Essentials.
Why we like it
You get a solid level of basic phone service, with unlimited calls, texts and data, 50GB of premium higher-speed data and better pricing than the Essentials Saver plan for three or more lines (up to six).
Who it’s best for
Essentials is great for a cost-conscious family of three or more that wants unlimited everything, even at some slower speeds.
Who shouldn’t get it
This plan isn’t for people who want features such as larger amounts of premium data, regular hotspot access or included perks, or folks who need to set up a family or group with three or more lines.
Customer service options
• Online: T-Mobile
• Phone: 1-855-315-6244
• Store: Store locator
• App: T-Life app
Pros
- T-Mobile has a strong 5G network
- Free T-Satellite service through end of 2025 (then $10 per month)
- 5-year price guarantee
- Solid perks like Netflix, Apple TV Plus and international data
Cons
- T-Satellite not included in the plan price
- Taxes and fees not included in monthly cost
T-Mobile’s Experience More plan sits in the middle of its unlimited plans but is actually quite a jump above the more value-focused Essentials and Essentials Saver plans. It includes unlimited high-speed data over its 5G network, so you don’t need to worry about whether performance will lag after you’ve used up an initial amount (although T-Mobile does reserve the right to slow data when networks are congested). It also includes 60GB of high-speed hotspot data (then unlimited at 3G speeds once that’s used up).
The Experience More plan also carries T-Mobile’s five-year price guarantee. The T-Satellite feature for texting via satellite when you’re away from a cellular network is not included in the plan, but it can be added as a free service once it begins operation in July through the end of 2025; after that date, it will cost $10 per month.
Internationally, Experience More includes unlimited talk and text while traveling in Canada and Mexico, plus 15GB of high-speed data (then unlimited at 256Kbps). In more than 215 other countries outside the US, you get unlimited texting and 5GB of high-speed data (then unlimited at 256Kbps), plus calling charged at 25 cents per minute.
The Experience More plan also includes a few attractive perks above the 5G and data speed allotments. Included in the price are Netflix Standard (with ads) and Apple TV Plus, which includes the MLS Season Pass, at 4K resolution where available. A one-year AAA membership can also help when you’re traveling. T-Mobile’s Magenta Status adds even more perks, such as 15% discounts on Hilton hotel stays, 25% off tickets to “more than 8,000 shows at over 120 venues nationwide,” and T-Mobile Tuesdays, a series of deals that can include perks like cheap movie tickets and discounts at national restaurants.
Through Aug. 4, T-Mobile subscribers can sign up for a free year of the DoorDash DashPass service.
Why we like it
Although it’s more expensive, Experience More packs a lot of perks into one plan. Unlimited high-speed data means you don’t need to monitor your app and streaming usage.
Who it’s best for
Individuals and families who want to get the most for their monthly cost.
Who shouldn’t get it
People looking to pay less per month who don’t need hotspot data or a multitude of perks.
Customer service options
• Online: T-Mobile
• Phone: 1-855-315-6244
• Store: Store locator
• App: T-Life app
Best T-Mobile plans compared
| Plan | Cost 1 line (autopay) | Cost 4 lines (autopay) | High-speed data | Hotspot data limit | Price guarantee | Max number of lines | Streaming resolution | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | Essentials Saver | $50 | n/a | 50GB | Unlimited 3G | n/a | 3 | 480p (SD) |
| T-Mobile | Essentials | $60 | $105 | 50GB | Unlimited 3G | n/a | 6 | 480p (SD) |
| T-Mobile | Experience More | $85 | $170 | Unlimited 5G | 60GB | Five years | 12 | Up to 4K |
Recent updates
T-Mobile shook up its plans (again) in early 2025, replacing its Go5G Plus and Go5G Next plans with Experience More and Experience Beyond. And yet, the stalwart Essentials and Essentials Saver plans are still in the lineup as lower-cost alternatives to the bells-and-whistles Experience plans. It also announced that the Starlink-based T-Satellite service will be included in Experience Beyond and Go5G Next plans, and available as a $10 a month add-on for other plans (even extended to competing carriers).
Factors to consider
A wireless carrier saying it offers 5G is like me saying I have a car. Good for me — but what make and model is it? Does it run reliably? Can it actually get up to the top speed on the speedometer or will it sputter when I try to merge onto the freeway? And could I have gotten the same performance if I’d paid less for a model without extras like heated seats and a TruCoat sealant?
As you’re evaluating carriers, keep the following things in mind.
Know your area
Wireless coverage can make or break a plan. If you aren’t getting reliably fast connections, or if calls often drop or aren’t picked up, then you could be paying for more than you’re getting. Fortunately, most areas of the US are blanketed by some type of cellular coverage, so there aren’t as many dead zones as there used to be. (And now satellite service is starting to fill those holes.) The major companies are also putting a lot of money and effort into broadening their coverage.
On the other hand, even in a dense area, one carrier’s network may be stronger than another’s, or signals could be reduced due to interference. So the best approach is to ask friends or family members which services they use and if the quality is acceptable. You can also test-drive services to see how your devices work in your area. (See the FAQ below for more on how reliable coverage maps can be.)
Know your deals and discounts
One other thing to keep in mind: discounts. All the carriers offer additional discounts you could be eligible for, depending on your employer, military status, student status or age. T-Mobile’s Work perk could knock 15% off the monthly price of an Experience More or Experience Beyond plan.
If you’re 55 or older, you may also be eligible for a discounted plan: T-Mobile offers discounted plans nationwide for as low as $55 a month for two lines.
It’s also worth noting that some carriers may advertise different rates geared toward switchers on their websites, for example if you bring your own phone (not trade in and finance a new one on an installment plan). Our recommendations reflect the actual rate outside of these very specific promotions.
How we test
Picking a wireless plan and carrier is a highly personal process. What works for you and your family’s needs may be vastly different from what your friends or neighbors are looking for. Even geographically, some areas have better AT&T coverage, while others work best on Verizon or T-Mobile. The picks we make are based on more than a decade of covering and evaluating wireless carriers, their offerings and overall performance.
Specifically, we take into account coverage, price/value, and perks.
Coverage
Since all three major providers cover most of the country with reliable 4G LTE or 5G, this is largely a toss-up on a macro level. It’s why we recommend a variety of eSIM options for figuring out what works best for you in your particular location, so you can best decide what’s right for you. Looking at coverage maps on each provider’s website will likely show that you get good coverage even if your experience isn’t full bars or the fastest speeds.
Price/value
Value is factoring in the total experience you might get, such as how much high-speed data you get and what’s included in the sticker price. We also take into account whether a plan includes typical taxes and fees, or whether those are charged separately, inching your monthly bill up higher.
Perks
Perks are add-ons beyond the core components of wireless service (talk, text and data). This could range from bundling in or discounting streaming services, to extra hotspot data, or the ability to use your phone internationally.
T-Mobile plans FAQs
Technologies
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers for Thursday, July 17
Here are the answers for The New York Times Mini Crossword for July 17.
Looking for the most recent Mini Crossword answer? Click here for today’s Mini Crossword hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Wordle, Strands, Connections and Connections: Sports Edition puzzles.
I breezed through today’s Mini Crossword. There’s a little something for everyone. Birders will appreciate 3-Down while musicians will immediately know the answer to 6-Down. Read on for an assist with today’s Mini Crossword. And if you could use some hints and guidance for daily solving, check out our Mini Crossword tips.
The Mini Crossword is just one of many games in the Times’ games collection. If you’re looking for today’s Wordle, Connections, Connections: Sports Edition and Strands answers, you can visit CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.
Read more: Tips and Tricks for Solving The New York Times Mini Crossword
Let’s get to those Mini Crossword clues and answers.
Mini across clues and answers
1A clue: Workout facilities
Answer: GYMS
5A clue: Pipe dream? Just the opposite!
Answer: LEAK
6A clue: In good spirits
Answer: JOLLY
7A clue: Up to the task
Answer: ABLE
8A clue: Headache-inducing situation
Answer: MESS
Mini down clues and answers
1D clue: Boston newspaper
Answer: GLOBE
2D clue: TALKS LIKE THIS
Answer: YELLS
3D clue: Mallard ducks with green heads, e.g.
Answer: MALES
4D clue: Drone’s zone
Answer: SKY
6D clue: Rock out
Answer: JAM
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