Louisianans can now use the LA Wallet app as a digital ID at TSA checkpoints nationwide, Gov. Jeff Landry announced Monday.
For the next three years, TSA has approved LA Wallet as a valid form of identification at airports, federal facilities and federal courthouses that accept digital ID’s.
“If you forget your wallet, no worries. You’re never going to forget your phone,” Landry said in a video announcement with Office of Motor Vehicles Director Bryan Adams.
Last year, the TSA expanded its digital ID acceptance program to include Louisiana-issued mobile driver licenses at the 27 airports that have checkpoints with digital ID readers. Now it’s accepted at over 250 airports, according to the TSA website.
“However, all passengers must still carry an acceptable compliant physical ID for verification,” the TSA site says.
At an airport security checkpoint, Louisianans can use the LA Wallet QR code, and a TSA reader will take your picture to confirm it’s an identity match.
“We are thrilled to see Louisiana utilizing innovative technology to allow for a more flexible and accessible TSA experience,” TSA Deputy Administrator Adam Stahl said in a press release.
To obtain a digital ID, state residents can download the LA Wallet app from the app store on a smartphone.
OMV technology
Landry and Adams also said Monday that the process of getting a driver’s license may be getting easier, but they did not share further details.
“We just finalized a contract for a new system that will take Louisiana into the 21st Century,” Adams said.
“After many fits and starts, the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles has successfully stabilized its system, making services more efficient and reliable for our citizens, meaning no more long lines,” Landry said.
In March, OMV locations across the state experienced several computer system outages because of outdated software. Officials have said they believed an increased volume of traffic in their database may have contributed to the outages.