San Diego airport accepting digital IDs at security checkpoints

Driving the news: TSA announced the expansion of digital IDs, which are carried in Apple or Google wallet, to SAN earlier this month.

• At the checkpoint, CAT-2 cameras take a real-time photo and use facial matching technology to verify the traveler's ID, ticket and screening status like TSA PreCheck. There's no need to show a boarding pass or hand over your phone.
• TSA says the photos aren't stored or used for any other purpose, but people can opt out. And officers will still accept physical IDs and boarding passes.

The big picture: Last year, California became one of 15 states to offer digital IDs, including Puerto Rico.

• Dozens of airports nationwide – 19 in California – accept them, including LAX and SFO.

Between the lines: California's digital IDs are free, but the DMV program is currently limited to 1.5 million residents though it could expand with state legislation.

• Some experts and officials say they protect users from identity theft and fraud while limiting personal information shared. Others have shared concerns about privacy, surveillance and immigration enforcement.

• The DMV and TSA tout them as more secure and private than physical IDs.

Pro tip: Make sure you have a REAL ID by May 7 for domestic flights — for real this time or it could slow you down in security.

Yes, but: Californians with a valid passport can wait to get a REAL ID when their driver's license is up for renewal.