New Mexico residents can now add their driver’s license or state ID cards to their Apple and Google Wallets. The move, according to the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division (MVD), will allow residents to seamlessly and securely add and present their IDs using their mobile device for certain purposes in the state and nationwide.
“Having a cell phone and mobile device with you at virtually all times is simply a fact of life these days. This new capability adds one more level of convenience for us all,” said Taxation and Revenue Secretary Stephanie Schardin Clarke.
Residents taking advantage of the digital driver’s licenses and state IDs will be able to present them at select TSA checkpoints across the country, including at Albuquerque Sunport and at the Lea County Regional Airport, and at participating business and venues. New Mexico officials said they anticipate even more businesses and venues adopting the new tech in the coming months.
Business and venues looking to accept mobile ID cards can use mobile apps, including the new NM verifier, which is available for free on iOS in coordination with the New Mexico Regulation & Licensing Department. The app securely and privately accepts mobile driver’s licenses and ID cards on an iPhone with no additional hardware needed.
However, the state did note the mobile driver’s licenses and state IDs do not replace physical licenses or identification cards, as they are an optional addition to those credentials. New Mexicans must still carry their physical licenses when driving.
“We’re excited to be among the first states to make mobile driver’s licenses available to users, and we’re excited to bring even more convenience and security to our residents with this innovation,” said MVD Director Htet Gonzales.
