(Credit: Greyfebruary/Getty Images)
Californians can now add their driver's licenses and identification cards to Google Wallet.
Google Wallet joins the CA DMV Wallet mobile driver’s license (mDL) app as another platform authorized to store Californians' digital IDs. It's also coming "soon" to Apple Wallet.
Once added, digital IDs will be "accepted as a valid form of identification at select retail locations and TSA airports," according to Governor Gavin Newsom's office. Drivers will still need to carry their physical licenses while driving, but DMV Director Steve Gordon argues that "having an mDL in your smartphone wallet is a huge convenience for Californians."
California launched the mDL initiative in 2023. The pilot program, aimed at promoting the convenience of using digital IDs, is limited to 1.5 million participants and currently has more than half a million people enrolled.
Google Wallet also supports digital IDs from Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland.
"Google Wallet makes navigating day-to-day life easier by giving people convenient and secure access to everyday essentials like your payment cards, loyalty cards, concert tickets, and more," said Jenny Cheng, vice president and general manager of Google Wallet.
To add a digital ID to Google Wallet, your phone must run Android 8 or later and have Bluetooth, screen lock, and Nearby devices enabled.