Mobile Driver’s Licenses: What They Are and Why Businesses Should Prepare
Mobile Driver’s Licenses: What They Are and Why Businesses Should Prepare
The way we identify ourselves is changing. With smartphones becoming central to daily life, mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) are emerging as the next evolution of personal identification – offering convenience, security, and compatibility with a digital-first world.
So what is an mDL? A mobile driver’s license is a digitally issued, government-approved version of a traditional license, stored securely on a smartphone. It contains the same information as a physical card – name, address, photo, date of birth – but adds enhanced security features like encryption, QR codes, and biometric authentication to prevent fraud.
Adoption of mDLs is already underway. According to the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA), more than 20 U.S. states have launched pilot programs or full rollouts of mDLs, and the number of users is projected to grow rapidly. In a 2023 survey by IDEMIA, 67% of Americans said they would prefer a digital license over a physical one if given the option.
For businesses, this shift means updating verification systems to recognize and validate mDLs alongside traditional cards. Digital license readers and software integrations can scan QR codes or NFC chips embedded in mDLs, instantly verifying authenticity and reducing the risk of fake IDs.
mDLs also support privacy by letting users share only the information needed for a transaction – for example, just proving they are over 21, without disclosing their full address.
Forward-thinking businesses that prepare for mDLs now will gain a competitive edge, offering customers faster, more secure check-ins that align with their expectations of a modern, digital experience.
As mDL adoption grows, staying ahead of the curve ensures your business stays compliant, efficient, and customer-friendly.
