TSA makes MAJOR change that'll impact how fliers prove their identity
More than 250 airports across the US have begun accepting digital IDs stored on smartphones, per its website.
This new system allows passengers to use state-issued digital driver's licenses or ID cards via their phone's wallet app, such as Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet, as an accepted form of identification at TSA checkpoints
States that currently accept the new form of identification include: Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, and Iowa.
Louisiana, Maryland, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Puerto Rico, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia are also included.
Each state decides which form of digital ID is eligible.
Despite the new rules, the TSA urged passengers to always fly with a physical form of identification.
Travelers simply present their phone with the digital ID at the TSA checkpoint, where biometric technology can compare their live image to the ID to verify their identity without the need for a physical card.
This touchless approach is designed to enhance security while improving passenger flow and privacy.
The administration also clarified that the photo portion is optional for travelers.
If they decline, the TSA officer will use the standard ID verification process.
According to the TSA, the biometric data collected during the process is deleted immediately after verification, ensuring travelers' privacy.
The digital ID only shares the necessary information to confirm their identity, making it a secure alternative to traditional physical identification.
This update comes after the US Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, said she was reviewing the 3.4-ounce limit for liquids on flights, igniting hopes of a long-overdue update to airport security protocols.
'I will tell you, I mean, the liquids [rule] - I am questioning [it],' Noem told NewsNation chief Washington Correspondent Blake Burman at the inaugural Hill Nation Summit.
'So that may be the next big announcement is what size your liquids need to be. We're looking at it.'
She added: 'Well, hopefully the future of an airport where I'm looking to go is that you walk in the door with your carry-on suitcase, you walk through a scanner and go right to your flight.'
Kristi said that it could only take one minute for people to get through security, and she is working with several parties to make this happen - but it might take some time.
'It's not certainly anything we'll be announcing in the next week or two,' Noem told The Hill.
'But we're working to see what we can do to make the traveling experience much better and more hospitable for individuals, but also still keep safety standards.'
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