The New Mexico legislature is considering enacting legislation around the use of digital driver’s licenses with SB88 under consideration.
A digital driver’s license is a secure version of your physical driver’s license or ID card that can be stored on your cell phone. Both iPhone and Android users can already store things like credit cards, plane tickets, hotel keys, and event tickets in digital wallets. In the same way, a DDL grants you easy access to your license or ID on your device.
A Digital version is NOT just a digital copy or screenshot of your driver’s license; the technology works with your state’s government to set up and verify your identity digitally through an app or your smartphone.
Since you rarely leave home without your phone, with a DDL, you’ll be able to access your ID even if you leave your wallet or purse at home. Keep in mind, however, that a digital version is not a replacement for your license or ID, but rather a supplement to it.
Most levels of government support the use of digital licenses. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is working to help create new standards for mobile driver’s licenses, known as ISO 18013-5 mDL, and TSA started testing DDL acceptance for PreCheck passengers at select trial airports.