Traveling through Cleveland just got a little more high-tech and convenient. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is now welcoming travelers to utilize mobile driver's licenses and state IDs for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints, becoming one of the latest airports to adopt this technology, following the example of other Ohio airports like John Glenn Columbus International and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International.

Bryant L. Francis, Director of Port Control at Cleveland Hopkins, embraced the development. "Having this technology available in Cleveland is such a great win for our guests," he told FOX8. He commented on the streamlined process while highlighting the benefit of enhanced security and privacy. Similarly, TSA Ohio Federal Security Director Don Barker emphasized the security improvements, the reduction of touchpoints, and better privacy protections of mobile licenses, as reported by Cleveland19.

Ohians can add their driver's license or state ID to Apple Wallet with a tap on the "+" button, selecting "Driver’s License or State ID," and following instructions for setup and verification. To present the digital ID, travelers with an iPhone or Apple Watch simply double-click the side button, select their ID, and hold the device near a TSA reader. The information is then released upon user authorization with Face ID or Touch ID, ensuring security and privacy, as detailed by WKYC.

The integration provides convenience and aligns with the upcoming federal REAL ID requirement for domestic flight passengers. "I’m pleased that Ohioans will have expanded opportunities to use this innovative and convenient new ID tool as part of their travel plans," Ohio BMV Registrar Charlie Norman expressed to WKYC. To use the mobile ID feature, however, residents must ensure they have a valid, readable Ohio driver’s license or state ID, an iPhone 8 or later with iOS 16.5, or an Apple Watch Series 4 or later with watchOS 9.5 or later.