San Juan, Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico has joined a growing list of U.S. jurisdictions offering digital driver's licenses and state IDs on Apple Wallet. Governor Pedro Pierluisi announced yesterday that residents can now securely store their government-issued identification in the popular mobile wallet app.
The implementation of digital IDs in Puerto Rico is a result of a collaborative effort between the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP), the Puerto Rico Innovation and Technology Service (PRITS), and Apple. By adding their licenses to Apple Wallet, Puerto Rican residents can now present their digital ID at select businesses, TSA checkpoints, and other locations that accept digital credentials.
"This is another opportunity for convenience that means all people who have their CESCO digital can now securely store their driver's license or official government ID in their Apple Wallet to validate their identity," said Governor Pierluisi.
How it Works
To use the new feature, residents must:
Have a valid Puerto Rican driver's license or government-issued ID.
Own an iPhone XS or later model running iOS 15.2 or later.
For Apple Watch users, a Series 5 or later model running watchOS 8.0 or later is required.
Users can add their digital ID to Apple Wallet by visiting the idmovil.pr.gov portal and following the provided instructions. The digital ID is encrypted and requires user authentication before being shared with a reader, ensuring enhanced security.
Benefits of Digital IDs
Convenience: Easily accessible and eliminates the need to carry a physical ID.
Security: Encrypted and protected by biometric authentication.
Compliance: Meets industry standards for privacy and security (ISO-18013-5).
Acceptance: Can be used at TSA checkpoints and other select locations.
Cost and Timeline
The implementation of digital IDs in Puerto Rico cost approximately $850,000. PRITS and DTOP plan to expand the availability of mobile digital IDs to other digital wallets by the end of 2025.
Real ID Compliance
While the digital ID in CESCO Digital is valid for local transactions, a Real ID-compliant physical or digital ID is required for federal purposes starting May 7, 2025.
Quotes from Officials
"This is another opportunity for convenience that means all people who have their CESCO digital can now securely store their driver's license or official government ID in their Apple Wallet to validate their identity," said Governor Pierluisi.
"Today, this is a reality and we are very happy… At the DTOP, we are not only innovating; we are transforming the government experience. CESCO Digital has become the epicenter of Puerto Rico's technological revolution, connecting our people with cutting-edge tools that redefine the interaction of citizens," said Eileen Vélez, Secretary of the DTOP.
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