DMV Rolls Out Mobile ID For Northern Virginia

Virginia Mobile ID has launched in Northern Virginia, allowing residents to carry their state-issued driver’s license or ID on their smartphones. This expansion follows a successful launch in Richmond, according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

This free digital credential aims to provide convenience while maintaining security and privacy. Virginia Mobile ID is designed to make interactions with the DMV, Transportation Security Administration, and pilot Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control stores more efficient, officials said in a news release.

Residents can download the Virginia Mobile ID app from App Store or Google Play, scan their physical ID, and complete a face verification to start using it.

“The Virginia Mobile ID option is another example of a modern, innovative solution that DMV has launched to keep the Commonwealth and the transportation industry driving forward," Virginia Secretary of Transportation Nick M. Donohue said in a news release, adding that the future of identification is now in the hands of Virginians.

Donohue said increased usage would encourage more businesses and organizations to accept Mobile ID.

Customers should continue carrying their physical ID card as a backup, particularly when driving, authorities said.

Virginia Mobile ID is accepted at over 350 U.S. airports with TSA checkpoints, including Ronald Reagan Washington National and Washington-Dulles. It is also accepted at 16 pilot Virginia ABC stores in Northern Virginia, all DMV Customer Service Centers, Virginia State Police, and the Falls Church Police Department, as well as a growing number of restaurants, wineries and breweries.

“Northern Virginia residents can now use the Virginia Mobile ID in many of the places they may visit regularly," said Dr. Gerald Lackey, Virginia DMV commissioner. “Virginia Mobile ID is made for Virginians, and we encourage everyone to give it a try. It’s free, secure and right in the palm of your hand.”

Virginia Mobile ID allows users to control the information they share. For instance, customers can confirm they are over 21 without revealing their name and address.

The Virginia DMV helped establish national security standards for mobile ID as a founding member of the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators’ Digital Trust Service. Businesses can accept Mobile ID by downloading the free Virginia Mobile ID Verifier app.

More than 100 businesses and organizations across the Commonwealth currently accept Virginia Mobile ID. The DMV is working to expand acceptance and offer it in digital wallets. Virginia ABC plans to expand to additional stores after the pilot program concludes.