Digital Passports Arrive: You Can Now Use Google Wallet to Fly
Say goodbye to digging through your bags for your passport at the airport. Google Wallet can now store a digital copy of your US passport, allowing you to breeze through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints with ease.
Adding Your Passport to Google Wallet
To add your passport to Google Wallet, first download the app and create an account or log in to your existing one. Look for the prompt to “create an ID pass with your US passport” and follow the instructions. The app will guide you through a simple process: take a video selfie for identity verification and scan the security chip in your passport. Google usually confirms your identity within minutes, and then your digital passport is ready to use.
Where Can You Use Your Digital Passport?
Keep in mind that not every airport accepts digital forms of identification just yet. Currently, 27 states (plus Puerto Rico) have at least one airport where you can showcase your digital passport. For a comprehensive list of participating states and airports, visit the TSA website.
A Growing Trend: Digital IDs Take Flight
Google’s move to include digital passports in its Wallet app follows a trend of digitizing personal identification. For some time, the company has been testing the use and storage of digital passports within Google Wallet. Several states have embraced digital IDs in recent months, further solidifying the transition to mobile-based identification. Most recently, New Mexico joined this movement, enabling residents to store their state IDs and driver’s licenses in both Apple Wallet and Google Wallet.
This shift towards digital IDs not only streamlines travel but also offers increased security and convenience. With your passport securely stored in your smartphone, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when you head to the airport.
The Future of Travel?
As digital identity technology continues to evolve, it’s likely that we’ll see even wider adoption of digital IDs across various industries. From airline check-ins to accessing government services, the possibilities are vast. Perhaps glancing at your smartphone will become the new norm for verifying your identity, simplifying everyday tasks and enhancing our digital experience.
How secure are digital passports, and what measures are in place to protect user data?
## Digital Passports Take Flight: Interview with a Tech Expert
**Host:** Welcome back to Tech Talk! Today we’re diving into the exciting news of digital passports finally arriving on our smartphones. Joining us to discuss this groundbreaking advancement is tech expert Sarah Jones. Sarah, welcome to the show!
**Sarah:** Thanks for having me! It’s great to be here.
**Host:** So, tell us, Sarah, what does this mean for everyday travelers?
**Sarah:** It’s a game-changer! No more rummaging through bags for your passport at airport security. You can now store a digital copy of your US passport on Google Wallet [[1](https://support.google.com/wallet/answer/15284332?hl=en)].
**Host:** That sounds convenient. How does the process actually work?
**Sarah:** It’s surprisingly simple. You download the Google Wallet app, either create a new account or log into your existing one. Then, you look for the option to “create an ID pass with your US passport (beta)” and follow the on-screen instructions. Basically, you’ll be guided through a process that involves taking a video of your passport.
**Host:** So, it seems TSA checkpoints are going digital. Is this secure?
**Sarah:** Google Wallet emphasizes security. They are using encryption and other security measures to protect your digital passport information. Of course, responsible device handling and strong passwords are always crucial for any digital data.
**Host:** Great to know! What about international travel? Will this work for other countries?
**Sarah:** Right now, it’s specifically for US passports. However, we can expect other countries to follow suit as digital identity technology evolves.
**Host:**
This is truly a glimpse into the future of travel. Sarah, thank you so much for shedding light on this exciting development.
**Sarah:** My pleasure!
**Host:** And for our viewers who want to learn more, instructions are available through Google Support. We’ll link them in the show notes. Stay tuned for more tech innovations on Tech Talk!
