In September 2024, Google unveiled improvements to their user experience including improved digital ID features. Most notably is the ability for US customers to digitize their passport and store the electronic identity document in their Google Wallet. Although more than a dozen US states offer mobile drivers licenses, which allow for their state ID to be stored and used electronically, this marks the first time the US passport has been digitized.
The digital identity document is called an ID Pass. It uses NFC and QR codes to transmit the information stored on a passport – the same protocols used by Google Wallet mDLs.
How customers can create a digital ID using a passport
Customers start by following the prompts inside the Google Wallet app to “create an ID pass with your U.S. passport”.
Customers are then directed to scan the security RFID chip in the back of their passport. To ensure that the user holding the phone is the same individual as the owner of the passport, customers setting up the digital ID are guided through a selfie video liveness checks that matches their face to the photo on the RFID chip.
Google then runs a series of internal checks and cross matches. Once verified, customers will be notified that their digital ID is ready for use. The process typically takes several minutes to propagate.
Which businesses accept Google Wallet digital passports?
These ID passes are currently only accepted at select TSA checkpoints for domestic travel. Google Wallet has not yet announced additional available locations.
How to read a Google Wallet digital passport?
We expect Google Wallet digital passports to be compatible with VeriScan for Windows (when using a compatible mobile ID reader) in Q1 2025.
The Google Wallet digital IDs work using NFC (near field communication). This allows for a safe and encrypted connection in which sensitive information can be shared when the phone is held near to a mobile ID reader.
For those devices that don’t have NFC enabled, the Google Wallet digital IDs can also generate a QR code that can be scanned by inquiring parties.
Both methods allow the ID owner to limit the sensitive information shared with the relying party to only necessary information like age, name, etc.
The future of digital passports.
Google and other agencies state that 70% of consumers across Brazil, France, Germany, the U.K. and the U.S. use digital wallets. Countries such as Finland and South Korea already offer digitized passports, and the electronic documents are accepted at select border crossings with plans for further expansion as the passport form continues to grow. Although Google Wallet’s e-passport is still not intended to replace a physical document, and only offers multiple use cases today, the launch of mobile IDs in jurisdictions around the world continues with momentum and excitement. It is important to ensure your business technology remains able to verify age and identity without lapses in business continuity or compliance.
To learn more, contact a member of our team.
