West Virginia DMV Launching New Digital ID Option

CHARLESTON — One year after launching digital motor vehicle registrations, the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles is adding a digital drivers’ license and I.D. for motorists to pull up on their phones.
The DMV announced earlier this month that it has partnered with IDEMIA Public Security North America to launch a new mobile I.D., or mID, that West Virginia residents can access on their smartphones and present for I.D. checks by law enforcement, airport security, or purchasing age-restricted products.
West Virginians can go to their Apple or Android app stores and download the “West Virginia Mobile ID” app. After agreeing to terms of use and other statements, the user can select their drivers’ license or I.D. card. The user scans the front and back of their drivers’ license/I.D. card and takes a photo of their face. Once approved, users can access the WV Mobile ID app.
“…The West Virginia DMV has continued to offer faster, more convenient digital and secure services for the citizens of West Virginia,” said DMV Commissioner Everett Frazier in a Dec. 10 statement. “Having the opportunity to provide the State of West Virginia with a Mobile ID will only enhance the citizen experience by moving the State in a direction that keeps us moving forward with more advanced technology.”
IDEMIA says their app is secure, allowing users to unlock the WV Mobile ID app with their face or with a six-digit PIN. Residents can use mID at TSA PreCheck at participating airports or other places to streamline interactions with government agencies, law enforcement, and businesses.
“…Users have full control over when and with whom they share their information, giving them more privacy compared to traditional physical credentials,” Scott said. “They can decide to share complete personal information, or for example, just their birth date when making an age-restricted purchase.”
In January, the DMV first announced it was developing a mobile I.D. that can be stored on smartphones with an original launch planned in early spring 2024. West Virginia residents renewing their motor vehicle registrations online can now request a secure digital registration that can be stored on smartphones. Residents can receive directions online or via DMV kiosks on how to down the digital registration.
While the digital registration and mobile ID is not meant to replace physical registrations and drivers’ licenses, officials said the digital registration and mobile ID will provide residents with greater convenience. According to IDScan.net, 14 other states offer some form of digital I.D.
“This is one of the ways we’re trying to use modern technology to make life easier and safer for West Virginians,” said Gov. Jim Justice during a Dec. 10 administration briefing. “West Virginia is transforming its DMV into one of the best in the country. This is really great stuff.”