Google Wallet adds Driver’s License and Digital ID support for more U.S. States
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Back in June, Google announced some forthcoming features for Google Wallet that we are just now seeing roll out. One of these was the ability to add a state ID or Driver’s License to facilitate TSA checkpoint procedures at select airports.
However, when this feature launched, not all U.S. states were on board with the program. At the time, Maryland became the first state to support it, with the state ID literally becoming the poster child for the rollout, as can be seen in the marketing materials.
Meanwhile, support for additional states was promised for a later date, with Arizona, Colorado and Georgia listed as the next ones slated to join the Digital ID program. Surprisingly, and without much fanfare, that day has arrived sooner than we thought.
Google has quietly rolled out support for these three states already, joining Maryland in the Google Wallet app. You can already see these states pop up when attempting to add an ID Card on the app. Considering there hasn’t been a versioned update to the Google Wallet app since October 3rd, we are inclined to think that this is a server-side push.
The setup process requires a photo scan of the front and back of your physical ID or Driver’s License, followed by a short video verification process. Once setup has been completed, the digital ID will be themed with artwork that represents the issuing state — such as a peach to represent Georgia.
This update brings Google Wallet’s digital ID compatibility up to par with Apple Wallet, where the ability to have a mobile Driver’s License has been available in some states since last year. Samsung has also announced that this would be coming to Samsung Wallet later this year, and Google previously stated that more functionality will be added to digital IDs in the future, such as the ability to verify online accounts.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which US states currently support adding a digital ID or driver's license to Google Wallet?
Which US states currently support adding a digital ID or driver's license to Google Wallet?
A.
Maryland was the first state to support this feature. Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia have now joined, making these four states compatible with Google Wallet's digital ID program for now.
Q.What steps are involved in adding a digital ID to the Google Wallet app?
What steps are involved in adding a digital ID to the Google Wallet app?
A.
Users must scan the front and back of their physical ID or driver's license. Following this, a short video verification process is required to complete the setup of the digital ID in the app.
Q.How does Google Wallet's digital ID support compare with other mobile wallet providers?
How does Google Wallet's digital ID support compare with other mobile wallet providers?
A.
This update brings Google Wallet's digital ID capabilities level with Apple Wallet, which has offered mobile driver's licenses in some states since last year. Samsung Wallet is also expected to offer this later this year.
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