Montana Adds State IDs to Apple Wallet
Residents can now use digital IDs at participating businesses and select airport security checkpoints statewide.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Cybersecurity
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Montana residents can now add their driver license or state ID to Apple Wallet. This digital identification is officially accepted at select businesses and specific airport security checkpoints across the state.
Why it matters
The rollout integrates state-issued identification into common digital ecosystems, marking Montana as one of 16 U.S. states to support mobile-based identity verification. This shift digitizes a foundational credential for travelers and residents while maintaining the necessity of physical cards.
Montana joins 16 states that currently integrate state-issued IDs into the Apple Wallet ecosystem. This feature functions alongside physical cards, which the state continues to require for standard usage.
The players
Apple
Technology firm that manages the Wallet ecosystem and mobile identity verification standard.
Montana Motor Vehicle Division
State agency responsible for issuing driver licenses and verifying identity records.
The details
Users add their ID by selecting the option in the Apple Wallet app and scanning both sides of their physical card. After submission, the state verifies the identification information before activation. The system is compatible with both iPhone and Apple Watch, enabling tap-to-verify functionality at enabled terminals.
Timeline
October 15, 2026: The feature became available for Montana residents.
The Tech Race
Montana is following the established integration path adopted by 16 other states to modernize credential security. This move aligns the state with ongoing efforts to standardize mobile-based identity verification across North American transit hubs.
Residents can utilize this digital ID at airports including Great Falls International, Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula. Users should keep their physical license as the digital version does not replace the requirement to carry the original card.
The takeaway
This launch signifies the growing integration of state records into mobile platforms to streamline identity verification. Residents should monitor future announcements from the state for expanded retail acceptance and additional use cases.
Further reading
Learn more about evolving standards for digital identity in Cybersecurity.
More information
Review current implementation guidelines on the Montana Motor Vehicle Division website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Cat Country 102.9.
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