BATON ROUGE — Louisiana’s LA Wallet app is now officially approved for use at airport security checkpoints and federal facilities across the country.
As of July 15, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration certified that LA Wallet meets federal requirements for mobile identification. That means Louisiana residents can now use the digital ID at TSA checkpoints, federal buildings, and courthouses nationwide.
“If you forget your wallet, no worries. You are never going to forget your phone,” Gov. Jeff Landry said in a video announcing the change.
The certification is valid for three years, after which the TSA will review the app to ensure it continues to meet federal security and privacy standards.
LA Wallet, available on Apple iOS and Android devices, stores a digital version of state-issued identification, including driver’s licenses and REAL IDs. The app features a digital ID display that mirrors the physical license and updates automatically to reflect the most current information on file.
Originally launched in 2018, LA Wallet was the first legally accepted digital driver’s license in the United States. Since then, 13 other states have launched their own versions of mobile ID apps. TSA began accepting digital IDs at select airports in 2022 as part of a phased rollout of mobile driver’s licenses.
According to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, LA Wallet users can activate their digital ID for free if they have a current Louisiana driver’s license. The digital ID can also be used in place of a physical license for many in-state transactions, including interactions with law enforcement and alcohol purchases.
Governor Landry and OMV Commissioner Bryan Adams also announced that the state’s motor vehicle systems have been successfully stabilized following recent upgrades. Officials say this will lead to faster, more efficient service and shorter wait times at OMV offices statewide.
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