Montgomery County, Maryland has launched a pilot program to accept mobile IDs for age verification during alcohol purchases at its retail stores, beginning with the Westbard Oak Barrel & Vine location in Bethesda. The program expands upon Maryland’s existing mobile ID verification system, which has been growing since its introduction in 2022.
The initiative, implemented by Montgomery County’s Department of Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS), will accept Maryland Mobile ID through Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, and Samsung Wallet. The Maryland Mobile ID program, launched in 2022 by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), has already seen adoption by more than 250,000 Maryland residents. Maryland was notably the first state to support digital IDs across both major mobile platforms, establishing itself as a leader in mobile identity adoption.
The pilot program will officially commence with a kick-off event at the Westbard Oak Barrel & Vine store on February 5, featuring ABS Director Kathie Durbin and MVA Administrator Christine Nizer. The store, located at 5390 Westbard Avenue, will process the first customer transaction using a Maryland mobile ID for age verification during this event.
County Executive Marc Elrich stated that the collaboration between ABS and MVA shows how technology can improve convenience and security for residents, while providing a modern solution that simplifies transactions, enhances privacy, and prevents fraud. The initiative reflects a growing national trend, as other states like New York have implemented similar systems for age verification in hospitality settings.
ABS Director Kathie Durbin emphasized that the Mobile ID Check system adds an additional layer of authentication to prevent underage alcohol sales. MVA Administrator Christine Nizer noted that the mobile ID system is built on international standards and provides interoperability among states and other countries while protecting user privacy. The system’s security features include encrypted data transmission and biometric verification requirements on users’ devices.
Following the pilot phase, ABS may expand the mobile ID acceptance program to all 27 of its retail stores throughout Montgomery County. The expansion would standardize age verification processes and enhance security measures across the county’s alcohol retail network. The rollout follows the successful implementation of Maryland’s mobile ID system at transportation hubs, where the technology has already been accepted for TSA identity verification.
Sources: Montgomery County Maryland Press Release, Montgomery County Maryland Press Releases
Follow Us