Iowa announced that it planned to begin offering a mobile driver’s license (mDL) to state residents through the Apple Wallet. In addition, Iowa is developing a state based app, Iowa Mobile ID. This app will be a complement to the physical ID and is not intended to replace it.
Exciting new features
Some of the features of the mobile ID include payment, security, and privacy settings. The app will allow you to pay for purchases using the app, while proving your identity at the same time. It is important to note that this feature will only be available at participating locations for the time being.
Privacy and Security are two of the most important features coming with the mobile app. Your physical ID becomes more secure due to you not having to carry it around in a wallet. Your digital identity becomes more secure because the mobile driver’s license is locked down via security features, meaning only your biometric data can be used to access your ID. The privacy aspect comes into play because the Iowa Mobile ID will let you choose what information you want to share with people. You will be able to verify your age without having to divulge any personal information such as height, address, birth date, etc.
How to get it
- Download the app from either the Apple or Android app stores. To do this, search “Iowa Mobile ID” and download the app.
- Scan your physical ID. Activation of the app cannot be completed until your identity is verified.
- Take a selfie. This allows the app to verify your identity by comparing the selfie to the scanned ID. This is done by using facial recognition technology.
- Set your security features. This can be done by setting a PIN for the app or using facial biometrics to access the app.
- Start using it!
Iowa’s Department of Transportation recently soft-launched the mobile ID app for residents. The app is not yet available for public download; official app launch should come by the end of next month. In regards to the Apple Wallet integration, although it has been announced that Iowa will join the likes of other states integrating into the platform, the integration has not yet taken place. We will continue to watch for updates on this new ID format, so stay tuned for more information.
To learn more about mobile driver’s licenses, be sure to contact our team.
Other Iowa mDL resources
Iowa Mobile ID (Iowa Department of Transportation)
Iowa’s Mobile ID App Delayed to Make It Safer (KCCI)
Iowa DOT Delays Launch of Digital ID for Security Improvements (Government Technology)