The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has launched the Mobile ID Check by MD, a free app that provides a secure and convenient way for businesses to accept mobile driver’s licenses and identification cards for in-person age verification.
The new app is available in the Apple App Store and Google Play and doesn’t require businesses to purchase any additional hardware. The app was developed by the MVA’s Information Technology team and built using international standards. The technology allows for the acceptance of any state-issued Mobile ID or ID card.
“The MVA continues to be a leader in developing and implementing mobile driver’s licenses by not only offering secure options for our customers, but also developing cost-effective tools for businesses to access this important identity verification tool,” said Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer. “I am so proud of our team for creating an opportunity for businesses to securely interact with the many Marylanders who have already started using their mobile driver’s licenses. By increasing locations where mDLs can be accepted, we’re encouraging more Marylanders to take advantage of not only the convenience, but the security and privacy that mobile driver’s licenses offer.”
Maryland officials noted that businesses within Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) Thurgood Marshall Airport are now using the apps for age verification for the purchases of alcoholic beverages.
“Maryland and BWI Marshall Airport continue to lead the way with mobile driver’s license technology,” said Ricky Smith, executive director and CEO of BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport. “We’re excited to partner with the MVA and our restaurant partners to offer travelers a convenient, efficient way to verify age when purchasing alcohol.”
MVA noted that participating retailers using the Mobile ID Check by MD app will only be provided the required information necessary for age verification, such as a customer’s age and ID photo. Additionally, the app accepts ISO18013-5-compliant mobile driver’s licenses, which follow an industry standard that sets clear guidelines around protecting consumers’ privacy.
Looking to the future, MVA is working with the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence and 15 technology providers and industry experts including the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, Microsoft, the Department of Homeland Security, and US Bank to develop new opportunities for businesses and organizations to accept mobile driver’s licenses. Partnering organizations will share guidance and best practices for accurate identity verification with online transactions, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and other organizations.
