Idaho Considers Digital Driver’s License Bill

Idaho lawmakers are considering new legislation that would enable the state to develop and implement optional electronic driver’s licenses. The bill, introduced on January 28, 2025, in the Idaho House Transportation and Defense Committee, aims to provide residents with the option to carry their driver’s license information digitally on mobile devices, joining a growing number of U.S. states embracing mobile driver’s license technology.

Under the proposed legislation, the Idaho Transportation Department would be tasked with developing and implementing a system for issuing and managing electronic driver’s licenses. The digital format would serve as an alternative to traditional physical licenses, while maintaining existing physical license options for residents who prefer them. This approach aligns with the International Organization for Standardization’s ISO/IEC 18013 standard, which provides technical specifications for mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs).

The initiative would require the development of secure systems to protect digital license information and ensure privacy. The Transportation Department would need to establish protocols for verification and authentication of the electronic credentials, similar to systems already implemented in states like New York, which uses selfie verification technology for its mDL program.

The committee’s initial discussions have revealed varying perspectives among lawmakers regarding the proposal. Key considerations include the technical infrastructure requirements, implementation costs, and security measures necessary to protect personal information. Recent survey data from iProov indicates strong public interest in digital driver’s license services, suggesting potential citizen support for such initiatives.

If passed, Idaho would join several other states that have explored or implemented digital driver’s license programs. These systems typically allow residents to access their license information through secure mobile applications while maintaining the validity of physical credentials. Many states have also enabled their digital IDs to work with TSA checkpoints nationwide, offering additional convenience for air travelers.

The bill is currently in its early stages of consideration, with further legislative discussion and debate expected as it moves through the committee process. Implementation would likely involve coordination with federal agencies and compliance with emerging national standards for mobile identification.

Sources: The Spokesman-Review, Idaho State Legislature, eShow Management, Congressional Record

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January 30, 2025 – by Cass Kennedy