Driver's license in a smartphone: several states in America began issuing mDL digital IDs

Residents of several states can download their driver's license to a smartphone and use it instead of a regular one. The publication told more about the innovation NBC Los Angeles.

Photo: IStock

What are mobile rights

A Mobile Driver's License, or mDL, is a driver's license that is issued on a mobile device and can be updated in real time.

It consists of the same data elements as a physical driver's license, but the data is transferred electronically to a reader and is authenticated.

mDL is significantly superior to physical IDs, which are easy to lose or steal, break or damage, contain outdated information, contain too much information (including personal information), and can be easily duplicated by fraudsters.

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mDL implements safe, reliable and trusted technologies that allow for completely contactless transactions, selective release of information, data protection and much more.

mDL provides fast and secure identity verification at select airport security checkpoints, as well as an ID that can be used to purchase age-restricted items at participating retailers without sharing personal information.

Please note that since mDLs are not yet accepted everywhere, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) encourages customers to continue to carry a physical card.

How to get mDL

Although the process is slightly different in each state, in general, you will choose the mDL (maybe even DDL) option when you apply for or renew your license. Each state's licensing authority (such as the DMV or similar) will have a process for pairing your phone with the profile, writes Upgraded Points.

To do this, you need to download the application to your smartphone and complete the pairing process, as a result of which mDL will be downloaded and securely saved on your phone. Once downloaded, the app will be protected by a PIN or fingerprint, ensuring that no one but you can access it.

In which states is mDL available?

These states already offer or are testing digital driver's licenses:

• Arizona - Currently using the app in Arizona Mobile-ID, developed by Idemia and available for Apple Wallet.
• California - California is currently piloting a digital driver's license. The CA DMV Wallet app can be downloaded from Apple App Store or Google Play.
• Colorado - Colorado has been accepting digital rights via an app since 2019. myColorado, which is also available for Apple Wallet.
• Connecticut - Connecticut is working with Apple to develop virtual IDs that will work with Apple Wallet.
• Delaware - The state of Delaware currently uses the app Mobile-ID, developed by Idemia.
• Florida - A pilot project is currently underway in the state of Florida. Florida Smart ID, which will be implemented in the near future.
• Hawaii - Hawaii is working on compatibility with Apple Wallet, according to Apple, but nothing is known yet.
• Iowa - Iowa is working with Apple to develop virtual IDs that will work with Apple Wallet. Iowa Mobile ID is also coming soon.
• Kentucky - Kentucky is working with Apple to develop virtual IDs that work with Apple Wallet, according to Apple, but they are not yet available.
• Louisiana - Louisiana Application LA Wallet was launched in 2018 and allows you to obtain a digital driver's license that is accepted by state police.
• Maryland - Maryland Mobile ID available for Apple Wallet.
• Mississippi - Mississippi has an app. Mississippi Mobile ID digital driver's license storage that works with Apple Wallet.
• New Jersey - New Jersey is working with Apple to develop virtual IDs that will work with Apple Wallet, according to Apple, but they are not yet available.
• Ohio - Ohio is working with Apple to develop virtual IDs that will work with Apple Wallet, but they are not yet available.
• Oklahoma - The state of Oklahoma is currently using the app. Mobile-ID, developed by Idemia.
• Puerto Rico - Puerto Rico is working with Apple to develop virtual IDs that will work with Apple Wallet, but they are not yet available.
• Utah - The state of Utah is currently using the app. Get Mobile ID, developed by GET Group North America, and is working with Apple to create virtual identities that work with Apple Wallet.

How to use mDL

To use digital rights, you need to go to the application on the device where the information is stored and generate an electronic ID. A QR code will appear on the screen that needs to be scanned. Confirmation of credentials will appear on the device from which the scan was performed.

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The good news is that to ensure your privacy, none of your personal information is stored in the QR code, and you can even show a limited version that only shows your name, face and proof that you are of age, for example when you can drink.

A digital driver's license is only a supplement to a physical driver's license and may not be accepted everywhere. Since not all states currently accept digital driver's licenses, it's a good idea to take one with you when traveling interstate. Additionally, a passport is still required for international travel.

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