A new feature from Google allows users to upload their passports to their smartphones, but how useful is the function for international travel? While digital passports are useful in various scenarios, there are some limitations to the technology when it comes to international travel, especially.
Google first announced the then-upcoming passport feature in September 2024, and the feature is now live with widespread availability coming soon.
Related
These Are The 9 Steps Of Going Through A Passport Application
Learn what is involved in the passport application process, and what to expect when you apply.
Google’s New Wallet Feature Allows You To Add A Digital ID (With Your Passport)
Passport and boarding pass
Google’s new Google Wallet feature—which is in beta mode as of December 7th—allows users to add an “ID pass” with their passport on their Google-supported (Android) device. While the feature can be useful for some travel needs, travelers still need to carry their passports while traveling internationally.
An ID pass on Google Wallet is only available in the United States during beta testing, with no word on whether it will be available elsewhere as the feature is updated. Google also points out that the feature “isn’t a government-issued ID or a replacement for your physical ID.” However, Google specifically states that some travelers can use their ID pass in specific “supported airports.”
Apple does not have an official iOS wallet or other app that allows you to upload your passport. However, there are third-party apps that purport to manage your passport on your iPhone (or iPad).
What to know about Google’s passport function in Google Wallet
- Uploading your passport as an ID pass does not negate the need to carry your physical passport.
- Only U.S. passports are currently supported.
- ID passes are only available for Android users with Android 9 or later.
- ID passes do work in some TSA situations.
Google states that U.S. passport holders can use their pass IDs in Google Wallet for specific TSA situations, noting that “select locations” accept the ID pass as a form of ID.
“Currently, you can use your ID pass with TSA security for domestic travel within the US at supported airports.” —
Google
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Digital ID Map states that around half of the states in the U.S. accept digital IDs. This means travelers from those states can use their digital IDs in various apps and use them as IDs while traveling.
These digital IDs are accepted in situations such as those that accept TSA PreCheck Touchless ID. No information was available regarding which specific apps, tools, or platforms may be acceptable for digital ID via TSA.
“While ID passes are accepted at select TSA checkpoints today, we’re working with partners so you can use digital IDs in even more situations — for example, in the future we believe you should be able to use digital ID for things like account recovery, identity verification and even car rentals.” — Google Blog
However, general information is available regarding digital ID acceptance. For example, Los Angeles International Airport in California accepts TSA PreCheck Touchless ID and notes that “eligible Digital IDs” are accepted. Similarly, John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York accepts the same.
How To Use Your Google Wallet With An ID Pass For Your U.S. Passport
Google Wallet app on a smartphone
Google offers step-by-step instructions for setting up your Google Wallet with a pass ID for your passport. The steps include:
- Open the Google Wallet app
- Tap Add to Google Wallet
- Select U.S. Passport (beta)
- Select Get Started and agree to the terms
- Scan your passport information page
- Scan your passport security chip
- Take a selfie video
- Follow the steps to completion as prompted
According to MSN, Google will be rolling out the passport ID pass feature to all users soon, though the beta service is only available to some accounts.
References: Google, MSN