DMV busts New York Mobile ID program myths

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — New York’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is setting out to demystify the New York Mobile ID. Launched in June 2024, the Mobile ID is a digital version of a state-issued driver’s license, learner’s permit or non-driver ID that is kept on the user’s smartphone or other device. 

Since its release, more than 170,000 New Yorkers have gotten a Mobile ID, which is accepted at over 20 airports nationwide, the DMV said in a press release on Tuesday. Now, the department is hoping to clear up any remaining confusion or concerns about what the New York Mobile ID is and how it can be used: 

MYTH: Mobile ID is a photo of your plastic ID card 

FACT: According to the DMV, the New York Mobile ID was designed following the standards for personal identification from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. In following these guidelines, mobile IDs should not be designed to look like a picture of your driver’s license, learner’s permit or non-driver ID. 

A mobile ID that follows ISO standards can only be authenticated through an encrypted connection with a verifier device. Verifiers should never assume a mobile ID is authentic by simply looking at it. 

MYTH: You need to hand over your phone to a verifier 

FACT: When using your New York Mobile ID, you should never hand over your phone to anyone, the DMV said. All you need to do is open the app and tap share ID. A QR code will be generated and can be scanned by the verifier device. 

This QR code contains no personal data — instead, it establishes a connection between your device and the verifier. This connection is encrypted and does not require an internet signal. 

After scanning your QR code, you will be asked to consent to sharing the information being requested by the verifier. This consent is required every time you use your Mobile ID. The verifier receives only the information you consented to share. 

For added protection, your Mobile ID can only be unlocked by your face ID, touch ID or PIN. Even if someone accesses your unlocked device, your Mobile ID remains locked. If your device is stolen or lost, your Mobile ID becomes invalid as soon as you add your Mobile ID to another device. 

MYTH: The government is tracking you through your Mobile ID 

FACT: The DMV reported that they do not and cannot track where you use your New York Mobile ID, just like when you show your physical ID somewhere. When and where you use your Mobile ID is only stored on your phone and cannot be retrieved by the DMV. 

MYTH: Everyone will be required to get a Mobile ID 

FACT: The New York Mobile ID is completely voluntary. It was designed for convenience and security by enabling contactless interactions.

To download the New York Mobile ID app, or to watch a demonstration video, visit the DMV website.