Introduction
This guide walks you through the process of uploading a certificate to your PassKit account, a mandatory step for issuing passes to your users.
By the end of this guide, you'll be able to:
Understand the role of certificates in managing Wallet passes.
Upload a new certificate to your PassKit account.
Learn best practices for certificate management.
Before you can issue passes commercially you must upload a certificate to your PassKit account.
Terminology
Certificate
A digital document that verifies the authenticity of your passes and allows them to be added to and updated in Apple Wallet.
Certificate Signing Request (CSR)
A file generated by PassKit that is used to create your pass certificate. The CSR contains the certificate request information, the signature algorithm and the digital signature of your account to prevent a fake certificate from being requested.
Apple Developer Program
Membership provides the tools, resources, and support you need to create and manage Pass Type Identifiers, allowing you to issue and update Apple Wallet passes.
Pass Type Identifier
A unique identifier associated with your pass certificate. Pass Type IDs play an important role on how Apple Wallet work. Apple Wallet Passes are cryptographically signed using a certificate associated with a Pass Type ID.
Project
A project in PassKit refers to a Program (Membership/Loyalty), a Campaign (Coupons) or a Production (Event Tickets).
Live Project
A live project is an active project that has been assigned an Apple certificate. It's the Project status required for issuing and managing commercial passes that your end users can access.
Requirements
An active PassKit account
If you do not already have a PassKit account you can sign up for here: https://app.passkit.com/signup
Apple Developer Program membership
To create a Pass Certificate, Apple requires you to join the Apple Developer Program. This program offers a range of tools and resources specifically for developers working with Apple devices, including functionalities for Apple Wallet passes.
Enrollment is available for both individuals and companies, with a yearly fee of US$99. The sign-up process is straightforward, and generating certificates once enrolled is a quick and easy task. You can find the enrollment link here: https://developer.apple.com/programs/enroll/.
It's important to note that Google doesn't require a similar developer program for creating digital passes.
Process
These instructions are for adding a new certificate to your PassKit account. If you are renewing a certificate please follow these instructions.
Generate a CSR
Log in to your PassKit account and navigate to the Certificates section and click on ADD CERTIFICATE
Download the CSR. The file will be named cert.certSigningRequest
Register a Pass Type ID
In another browser window, log in to your Apple Developer account and click on "Identifiers".
Click on the + button
Choose Pass Type IDs and click Continue
Enter a unique identifier and description, and click Continue.
Check the information is correct and then click 'Register'.
Generate the Pass Certificate
Locate your newly registered Pass Type ID, and click on it.
Click on Create Certificate.
Click on 'Choose File' and select the CSR file you previously downloaded from app.passkit.com.
Select the file you previously downloaded from app.PassKit.com
Click Continue, and then Download the generated certificate file (pass.cer).
Upload the Certificate to PassKit
Return to your PassKit account and the Certificates section.
If the Upload Certificate box if not in view, click ADD CERTIFICATE again and this time select 'I ALREADY HAVE A CSR'
Drag and drop the downloaded file (pass.cer) into the upload box.
Your certificate now appears in the certificates list.
You can view the full certificate details by clicking on VIEW.
Considerations
Apple Developer Account Accessibility
When setting up your Apple Developer account, consider the following to ensure uninterrupted access and the ability to renew certificates:
Organizational Accounts: If you're managing the account on behalf of an organization, ensure that multiple individuals within the organization have access and knowledge of the account credentials. This will prevent disruptions in case of staff turnover.
Transfer of Ownership: If necessary, explore the process for transferring ownership of the Apple Developer Program membership to a different individual within your organization. This can be done through Apple's developer support.
Regular Updates: Keep your contact information and other account details up-to-date with Apple to ensure you receive important notifications and updates regarding your membership.
Certificate Expiration
Failure to renew your Apple Developer Program membership and associated certificates will have direct consequences:
Inability to Issue New Passes: You won't be able to create and distribute new passes for the associated live project.
Updates to Existing Passes: Existing live passes may become unusable if you cannot renew your certificate. Updates, such as changes to pass information or design, will be impossible.
By carefully considering these factors and ensuring appropriate account management, you can avoid disruptions and maintain the smooth operation of your Apple Wallet passes.
Your PassKit account will remind you when certificates are near their expiration date but we also recommend setting a reminder to renew your certificate before it expires. Copy this link - https://help.passkit.com/en/articles/4494780-how-to-i-renew-my-apple-certificate-in-my-passkit-account - into your recurring calendar event, so you have the instructions to hand.
Multiple Certificates
If you manage multiple brands or campaigns, consider creating a separate certificate for each to avoid confusion and ensure correct icon display.
Apple Developer Program Costs
The Apple Developer Program requires an annual fee. Factor this cost into your budget.
Technical Challenges
If you encounter any difficulties during the process send us a message.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully uploaded your certificate to your PassKit account. Remember to renew your certificate and consider the factors mentioned above for efficient pass management.
Additional Resources
Video Instructions