New N.Y. Mobile ID app allows users to store driver’s license on their cell phone

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — New Yorkers can now store and access their state identification, such as a driver’s license, on their phone via a new state mobile ID app.

New York Mobile ID (MiD) is a new app available in the App Store or on Google Play that will allow residents to keep a copy of their driver’s license, learner’s permit or state ID card on their cell phone.

“We’re thrilled to give New Yorkers access to this cutting-edge technology, which provides convenience and added security for Mobile ID users and those who accept it,” said Gov. Kathy Hochul when announcing the program. “Not only will New Yorkers be able to quickly display their IDs, but they will have control over the personal information they share.”

To get add your ID to your phone, follow these steps:

• Download the New York MiD app.
• Register the phone number of the device the Mobile ID will be on.
  • Keep in mind that your Mobile ID is only allowed “on one device at a time” in order to elevate identity safety.
• Open your camera and take a snapshot of your ID card’s frontside and backside.
• By taking a selfie, “the app checks your photo and ID against information on file with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure you are who you say you are.”

Once these conditions have been met, your ID will be linked to your phone. The app additionally has some security precautions to assure that not just anyone can get to your ID: You must use a six-digit PIN number, Face ID, or TouchID to log into New York MiD.

On top of that, only the information you explicitly share with the app will be kept on file — and it will be encrypted. Plus, when you use New York MiD, only the information needed will be available. For example, when a user needs to show their ID to purchase alcohol, the only thing that will be revealed is the customer’s age.

The number of places that accept New York MiD is blossoming, with the DMV communicating “with various businesses, organizations, associations and state government partners to expand their understanding of the New York MiD and how they can accept it.”

Presently, almost 30 airports across the country are accepting New York MiD, “including all terminals at LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports,” according to the state.

TSA’s 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 want to take advantage of this new capability will find that their New York mobile driver’s license is a convenient option when going through the security process.”

This comes as the nation is preparing to transition to the Real ID for hassle-free domestic travel.

Starting May 7, 2025, the federal government will require those boarding domestic flights to carry a driver’s license or other identification card that is Real ID compliant.

The DMV offers residents two options: a standard Real ID or an Enhanced ID.

Both the Real ID and Enhanced ID will allow travelers to board domestic flights and enter some federal buildings.

However, Enhanced IDs will also allow residents to cross United States land and sea borders from Canada, Mexico and some Caribbean countries, without the need for a passport.

Enhanced IDs do not authorize air travel between these countries, strictly land and sea travel. Passports are still required for all international flights.

Real IDs are marked with a star logo in the top-right corner, with Enhanced ID’s featuring a banner that reads “Enhanced,” along with an American flag in the bottom-right corner.