Illinois residents will soon be able to add their driver's licenses and state IDs to Apple Wallet, as announced by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. The digital ID program is set to launch by the end of 2025, allowing residents to present identification through their iPhone or Apple Watch.
The initiative follows Governor JB Pritzker's signing of House Bill 4592, which authorizes the development of digital identification cards. These digital IDs will complement, not replace, physical cards. While agencies and private businesses can choose to accept electronic IDs, law enforcement may still require physical credentials during interactions.
The program aims to enhance convenience and security for Illinois residents. "This partnership with Apple demonstrates our commitment to data security while providing convenience and privacy for Illinoisans," stated Giannoulias. The implementation fee for the mobile ID app will not exceed $6.
Law enforcement officials see potential benefits in the digital system. Tazewell County Deputy John Shallenberger suggests the technology could streamline traffic stops.
Illinois joins a growing list of states embracing digital identification. California, Hawaii, Ohio, Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Iowa, Maryland, Montana, and Puerto Rico have already launched similar programs. The Secretary of State's office plans to expand the service to Google Wallet users in the future.
The digital ID rollout represents part of a broader modernization effort for state identification services, incorporating current technology to serve residents more effectively.