State of mobile ID in Florida

Status: deleted

In July 2024, Florida ended their mobile ID program and asked users to delete the SmartID app from their phone. They look to completely redevelop the program. This comes as no surprise as the Florida SmartID had received mixed reviews, and was not supported by law enforcement in the state.

Below is historical reference from the period in which the Florida Smart ID was live

In an attempt to modernize the world of state issued identification cards, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) is launching a new mobile driver’s license pilot program called the Florida Smart ID, developed by international defense contractor, Thales. This new ID format is based on your physical identification card.

Despite launching Florida SmartID in 2022, the State of Florida has yet to formally announce the program. The state is not requiring that law enforcement agencies or businesses accept the new Florida mobile ID.

Currently, Thales offers a companion Florida Smart ID Reader application, however the app can only scan Florida SmartIDs and has no ability to engage with other state’s mobile IDs or physical IDs.

After downloading and authenticating their mobile ID, Floridians will easily be able to launch the Florida Smart ID app, select the type of verification needed, and display a specific QR code or barcode that can be scanned. This feature also helps to protect information by only displaying pertinent information for the venue a person is trying to enter. 

At this time, it is not a replacement for the physical driver’s license, so Floridians will still need the physical copy in their possession when driving. Stay tuned for more exciting updates on this pilot program. 

Other Florida mDL resources

Florida Smart ID (Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles)

The Florida Driver License goes mobile – with Florida Smart ID by Thales! (Thales Group)

Thales to Provide Mobile Driver Licenses to State of Florida (Prezly)