New York State’s Mobile ID (MiD) program has reached a significant milestone, with over 200,000 residents enrolling since its June 2024 launch. The digital identification system provides a smartphone-based version of state-issued driver’s licenses, learner’s permits, and non-driver IDs, joining a growing roster of U.S. states embracing mobile identity solutions.
The MiD program allows eligible New York State residents to carry a digital version of their identification on their smartphones. Enrollment requires downloading the MiD app, registering a phone number, photographing both sides of the physical ID, and taking a selfie for verification against DMV records. The implementation follows similar successful rollouts in states like Arkansas and West Virginia.
Security features include biometric authentication through Face ID or Touch ID, as well as PIN protection, meeting modern digital identity security standards. The system encrypts personal information, which is only accessible with user consent. Usage data, including when and where the MiD is used, remains encrypted and stored solely on the user’s device, with no external tracking or transmission. The approach demonstrates current best practices in mobile identity security and privacy protection.
The digital ID system has gained acceptance at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints in more than 100 airports nationwide, including all terminals at LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy, Syracuse Hancock, and Stewart International airports in New York State. The expansion follows the TSA’s broader initiative to accept digital IDs at security checkpoints across the country. Additionally, participating establishments with liquor licenses can accept the MiD for age verification during alcohol sales, representing a growing trend in digital age verification solutions.
“So much in today’s world happens on your smartphone, and Mobile ID’s strong growth in less than 10 months shows that so many New Yorkers have wanted a simple and secure way to access their driver license, permit or non-driver ID directly on their device,” said Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. “Mobile IDs will become increasingly important for consumers and businesses alike as more interactions go digital, and I’m proud that New York is one of the states leading the way.”
The MiD was developed in accordance with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards for personal identification and the Mobile Driver’s License Implementation Guidelines from the American Academy of Motor Vehicle Administrators. The system specifically adheres to the ISO/IEC TS 18013-7:2024 standard, which enables remote use of mobile driver’s licenses for digital identity verification. While the program continues to expand, some businesses may not yet have the necessary technology to verify the digital IDs, requiring users to carry physical identification as backup.
Sources: Statescoop, WPDH, NY.gov
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