State of mobile ID in Florida

Status: live, but unannounced

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.

How Florida SmartID Works

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)