Over 200,000 New Yorkers Enrolled in Mobile ID, Now Accepted at 100+ Airports and for Alcohol Purchases

Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that over 200,000 New Yorkers have successfully enrolled in the New York Mobile ID (MiD), a secure, digital version of the state-issued driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID. Introduced by the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in June 2024, the Mobile ID offers a convenient, contactless way for residents to verify their identity directly from their smartphones.

Governor Hochul highlighted the growth of the program, stating, “We’re thrilled that more than 200,000 New Yorkers have embraced this revolutionary technology that enables secure, contactless identification right from your phone. Whether you want to get through airport security or order an alcoholic beverage, Mobile ID is raising the bar on the way New Yorkers can verify their age and identity, offering greater convenience and privacy.”

Mobile ID is available to all New Yorkers with a valid state-issued driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID, and can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play for Android and iOS devices. The app is designed to securely store users’ IDs, providing a digital version that can be used for identification without the need to hand over a physical card.

The use of Mobile ID continues to expand, with over 100 airports across the United States now accepting it at TSA security checkpoints. In New York, the app is accepted at LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy, Syracuse Hancock, and Stewart International airports, making it easier for travelers to navigate security. Additionally, the New York State Liquor Authority approved the use of Mobile ID for age verification in bars, restaurants, and other businesses with liquor licenses. This means that residents can now use their Mobile ID to purchase alcohol at these locations.

To obtain a New York Mobile ID, users need to download the MiD app from the App Store or Google Play, then register the phone number of the device that will hold the Mobile ID. The app requires users to capture images of the front and back of their physical driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID, and take a selfie for verification. The app compares the photos with information on file with the DMV to confirm the user’s identity. Once verified, the Mobile ID is activated and can be used wherever it is accepted.

The Mobile ID app has been developed with a focus on privacy and security, utilizing encryption to protect personal data. Access to the app is secured by Face ID, TouchID, or a six-digit PIN, and users have full control over what information is shared. Data about the usage of the Mobile ID, such as when and where it is used, is encrypted and stored only on the user’s device, ensuring that personal information is not tracked or transmitted.