By the summer of 2025, many North Carolinians will have one less thing in their wallets. The state has Plans announced Offer residents the option of a digital copy license instead of carrying a traditional driver’s license.
So what exactly is a? digital identificationSo how does it work? Here’s what we know. Currently, 11 states have active digital driver’s license programs: Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New York and Utah. a dozen more states are working on digital ID programs or have announced plans to do so.
Also: How New York’s new digital driver’s licenses work: TSA, privacy features, and more
In states that use digital IDs, your ID is stored within a secure app on your phone Instead of your physical wallet, it holds the same information as your regular license. You pull up the app when you need it, just like you would a physical license. For now, enrollment in participating states is voluntary. Digital IDs aren’t replacing physical copies yet.
Some digital IDs only allow users to share a portion of their information, such as their date of birth at a bar. The information is stored only on your local device and is automatically updated if you change your name or address.
Also: 5 Reasons I Switched to a Digital Wallet and You Should Too
If you get pulled over for a traffic stop, you hand your phone to the officer just like you would a regular license. In some states, your digital license appears as a code you scan. In others, it looks exactly like your regular license.
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TSA accepts mobile IDs at Around 30 security checkpoints Domestically, so check at the airport to see if you need to bring your regular wallet.
Remember that you will need a Real ID By May 7, 2025, whether you opt for the digital or physical version, U.S. travelers must meet REAL ID requirements to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities.
The rise in popularity of services such as Apple Wallet and Google Wallet This means your phone replaces your credit cards, hotel keys, insurance cards, boarding passes, theme park passes, concert tickets, and more. In some states, you can even add your digital ID to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet.