Governor Kathy Hochul announced (June 11) that the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has launched the New York Mobile ID, a highly secure digital version of a driver’s license, learner’s permit, or state-issued ID on a smartphone.
The Mobile ID is available for iOS and Android users. Anyone who has a valid driver’s license, learner’s permit, or non-driver ID issued by the state can download the secure Mobile ID app through Google Play or the App Store.
“We are excited to give New Yorkers access to this cutting-edge technology, which provides added convenience and security for Mobile ID users and those who accept it,” said Governor Hochul. “Not only will New Yorkers be able to quickly display their IDs, but they will have control over the personal information they share.”
Through a partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the New York Mobile ID (MiD) will be accepted at TSA security checkpoints in nearly 30 participating airports nationwide, including all terminals at LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports. This will allow New Yorkers to verify their identity easily and securely for airport security screening.
DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said: “These days, everything is on your phone, and now, your ID can be too. This is an exciting way to provide identification without having to rummage through your wallet or purse to find the physical document. Instead of handing over your physical ID with a lot of personal information, the Mobile ID gives you greater control over the personal data you share.”
TSA Federal Security Director for LaGuardia Airport, Robert Duffy, said: “We are pleased to be able to add this state-of-the-art digital ID to the list of acceptable IDs at our security checkpoints. Travelers who wish to take advantage of this new feature will find that the New York mobile driver’s license is a convenient option when going through the security process.”
How to Obtain a New York Mobile ID
New Yorkers can obtain a New York MiD in a few simple steps:
• Download the New York MiD app from the App Store or through Google Play.
• Register the phone number of the device on which the Mobile ID will be. An individual’s Mobile ID can only be on one device at a time to help protect their identity.
• Take a photo of the front and back of your physical ID (driver’s license, non-driver ID, or learner’s permit) using your phone’s camera.
• Pose for a selfie. The app verifies your photo and ID against the information filed with the DMV to ensure that you are who you say you are.
• Once your information is verified, your MiD is active and ready for use wherever it is accepted.
The government added that “The DMV is privately working with various companies, organizations, associations, and state government partners to expand their understanding of the New York MiD and how they will be able to accept it. Any public entity or entity that needs to confirm an individual’s identity or age can start accepting the New York Mobile ID at any time. This gives businesses and organizations the confidence to know that the ID presented to them can be authenticated in real-time, meaning greater security for their customers, businesses, and their clients.”
To learn more, visit www.tsa.gov/digital-id