Virginia DMV launches Virginia Mobile ID

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles has launched Virginia Mobile ID, a secure way for Virginians to carry a valid state driver’s license or ID card on their phones.

Residents of the state can download the free Virginia Mobile ID app from the Apple App Store and Google Play, then scan their physical driver's license or ID and complete facial verification to activate the mobile version.

Residents still need to continue carrying their physical ID card as a backup, according to DMV officials – especially when driving.

The new mobile ID is currently accepted by:

• TSA checkpoints at 250+ U.S. airports, including Richmond (RIC), Reagan Washington National (DCA), Washington-Dulles (IAD), Norfolk (ORF), Newport News/Williamsburg (PHF), and Roanoke (ROA);

• Virginia State Police;

• All DMV customer service centers;

• Nine pilot Virginia ABC stores in the Richmond area

The mobile ID keeps personal details private. Instead of handing over a full ID — or even a phone — residents choose exactly what information to share and authorize each request, such as confirming they’re over 21 without disclosing their name and address. Data is transmitted securely via encryption directly between a customer’s phone and the reader device, and DMV does not store or track user activity. 

Virginia is the first state to launch a mobile ID that is accepted at DMV CSCs, by law enforcement, and at the pilot ABC stores.

“Most of us rely heavily on our phones, which is why Virginians should have access to a safe, secure form of mobile identification on the devices they use all the time,” said Virginia Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III. “The Virginia Mobile ID option protects your identity and privacy in the digital age, keeping you in control of what information you share.”

DMV officials are actively working to expand Virginia Mobile ID acceptance statewide, they said, including at more retailers, restaurants, and law enforcement agencies.

Upon successful completion of the pilot program, Virginia ABC may expand to additional stores. In the coming months, the Virginia Mobile ID program will prepare for integration with digital wallets.

“The commonwealth has long been a leader in innovation and Virginia Mobile ID is the latest example of how we’re modernizing services for residents,” said DMV Commissioner Gerald Lackey. “Over the next few months, we’ll continue expanding mobile ID acceptance with partners, while adding new functionality, such as digital wallet integration. Virginians are well positioned for a digital-first world with Virginia Mobile ID.”

For details about the Virginia Mobile ID app, benefits, participating locations, security features and frequently asked questions, visit the Virginia DMV’s website.