Arkansas Mobile IDs Arrive in Google Wallet

Arkansas has become the latest U.S. state to support digital driver’s licenses and IDs in Google Wallet, marking the tech giant’s 10th supported jurisdiction for mobile IDs. As of October 6, Arkansas residents can add their state-issued mobile driver’s license (mDL) or ID card to Google Wallet on Android phones, using the same scan-and-selfie enrollment flow seen in other states.

This integration, enabled by Arkansas’s collaboration with Idemia, is a significant step beyond the state’s standalone mobile ID app (launched in March) which until now was mainly used for TSA airport screening. Now, Arkansans can present a Wallet-resident digital ID for age checks or identity verification anywhere that accepts it, such as participating TSA checkpoints or retail age-restricted purchases.

The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration emphasizes the mobile ID is optional and complements the physical card, since adoption by verifiers is still ramping up. The sign-up process mirrors other states: scan the physical ID’s front and back, then take a live selfie for biometric match and liveness check. State officials highlight that the system lets users disclose just the necessary info (e.g. “Over 21” proof rather than full birthdate) in line with privacy best practices.

Google Wallet first added digital ID support last year, rolling out in 6 states by the end of 2024, and has quickly grown to 10 states with Arkansas on board (following recently added states like Georgia and Iowa). Idemia, which provides Arkansas’s mobile ID tech and many physical licenses, heralds the Google integration as a milestone in convenience and security.

With Apple Wallet also supporting several states’ IDs, digital driver’s licenses are steadily moving from pilot to mainstream in the US. Arkansas’ launch shows the ecosystem maturing, even as residents are reminded to carry their physical license as a backup during this transition phase.

Sources: Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, Kiplinger

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By the ID Tech Editorial Team