Now, you can simplify your travel experience by eliminating the hassle of rummaging through your pocket or purse at the airport. Starting today, Google Wallet allows you to securely store a digital copy of your US passport and use it at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints. This innovation not only enhances convenience but also adds an extra layer of security to your travel documents.

To start using this feature in Google’s virtual wallet, the first step is to download the Google Wallet app, if you haven’t already. Log into your existing account or create a new one. Once you’re in, look for the option that says “create an ID pass with your US passport” and follow the straightforward prompts. The app will guide you to take a video selfie for identity verification and scan the security chip embedded in your passport. The entire process should take just a few minutes for Google to confirm your identity, making it a quick and efficient solution.

It’s important to note that your digital passport may not be accepted at every airport across the country. Currently, there are 27 states, along with Puerto Rico, where at least one airport is equipped to accept these digital forms of identification. To check whether your state or specific airport accepts digital IDs, you can easily find resources online that provide this information, ensuring you stay informed before your travel plans.

The integration of digital passports into Google Wallet has been in development for some time now. In recent months, several states have begun to embrace the use of digital IDs, marking a significant shift in how we manage our identification while traveling. Notably, New Jersey has recently become the latest state to accept digital IDs, including driver’s licenses and state IDs, in both Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. This trend indicates a growing acceptance of digital identification methods, enhancing the overall travel experience for users.