New York Governor Kathy Hochul and the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced on Tuesday (11) that New York has launched a digital version of the state ID.
The new digital ID will be available on iOS and Android for users. Anyone with a valid state-issued driver’s license, learner permit, or non-driver ID 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 that offers convenience and added security for Mobile ID users,” said Governor Hochul. “New Yorkers will not only be able to quickly display their identities but will also have more control over the personal information they share.”
The mobile ID will be accepted at TSA security checkpoints in nearly 30 airports nationwide. This includes all terminals at LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports. For a complete list of airports that will accept the mobile ID, click the link: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/digital-id/map
DMV Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “These days, everything is on your phone, and now your identity can be too. This is an interesting 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 offers greater control over what 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 identification to the list of acceptable IDs at our security checkpoints. Travelers who wish to take advantage of this new feature will find that their New York mobile driver’s license is a convenient option when going through the security process.”
How to obtain New York’s Mobile ID (MiD):
• Download the New York MiD app from the App Store or Google Play.
• Register the phone number of the device on which the Mobile ID will be stored. 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 or non-driver ID).
• Pose for a selfie. The app compares your photo and ID with the information filed at the DMV to ensure you are who you say you are.
• Once your information is verified, your MiD will be active and ready for use wherever it is accepted.
The government also stated that “The DMV is working with various companies, organizations, associations, and state government partners to expand their understanding of New York’s MiD and how they will be able to accept it. Any public or private entity that needs to verify 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, which means greater security for their businesses and their customers.”
For more information, visit www.tsa.gov/digital-id