# New Mexico Embraces the Digital ID Movement with Apple Wallet
Apple is advancing its Wallet digital ID initiative, allowing users to keep their driver’s licenses and state IDs on their iPhones and Apple Watches. The newest state to adopt this innovation is New Mexico, which has officially declared support for digital IDs, providing residents with easy access to their identification through the Wallet app.
## New Mexico’s Digital ID Introduction
Currently, New Mexico residents can integrate their driver’s licenses or state IDs into their Apple Wallet. This feature seeks to simplify the identification process, enabling users to carry their IDs without needing a physical card. To begin, users need to complete a few straightforward steps:
1. Open the Apple Wallet app on their iPhone.
2. Tap the plus sign (+) at the top-right corner of the screen.
3. Choose “Driver’s License” or “State ID” and follow the on-screen instructions to finish the setup process.
This effort not only boosts convenience but also aligns with the increasing shift towards digital solutions in daily life.
## Key Considerations for Digital IDs
Although the launch of digital IDs is an important development, users should be mindful of certain limitations. The New Mexico government has issued a disclaimer about utilizing digital IDs: “ID in Apple Wallet is available…at select TSA checkpoints (travelers should refer to checkpoint signage to confirm availability). ID verifier is available at select merchants.” This indicates that while digital IDs are gaining acceptance, they may not be universally recognized at every location or checkpoint.
## The Expanding Momentum of Digital IDs
The implementation of digital IDs has progressed steadily, but recent events suggest a growing momentum in this field. Earlier this year, California also introduced support for digital IDs in Apple Wallet, marking a significant achievement given the state’s large population and the array of supported devices. As more states come on board, the convenience of carrying digital IDs is anticipated to become a common practice throughout the United States.
For those keen on monitoring which states currently support digital IDs, there are updated resources available online that offer comprehensive lists of participating states and the specific features they provide.
## Conclusion
New Mexico’s addition to the roster of states endorsing digital IDs in Apple Wallet signifies a considerable advancement in the implementation of digital identification solutions. As technology continues to progress, the convenience and efficiency of managing identification digitally will likely become standard, simplifying life for users nationwide. With ongoing updates and expansions, Apple’s Wallet app is set to become a vital resource for managing personal identification in the digital era.
