Maryland MVA Expands Mobile ID Program to All Branch Office Kiosks

The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has expanded its Mobile ID program by integrating digital identity verification with self check-in kiosks at all MVA branch offices statewide. Maryland residents can now use their smartphones to manage appointments and verify their identity by tapping their device against an NFC reader embedded in the kiosk system.

Improving Efficiency Through Digital Identity Integration

The self-service kiosks are designed to streamline the customer experience while enhancing operational efficiency and security. Customers can present their digital driver’s license through their smartphone’s digital wallet – supported platforms include Google Wallet, Apple Wallet, and Samsung Wallet – and complete the check-in process by holding their device near the NFC reader on the right side of the kiosk.

To participate, users must download the “Mobile ID Check by MD” app, available for both iOS and Android. Once set up, the digital ID allows residents to authenticate their identity at MVA branches without needing to present a physical license during check-in. However, state officials emphasize that the Mobile ID is a companion credential and residents should still carry their physical driver’s license or state ID, as not all entities, including law enforcement, are equipped to accept mobile credentials in all contexts.

Building on a Broader Digital Identity Strategy

This latest enhancement builds on Maryland’s ongoing efforts to expand digital identity use cases across the state. The Mobile ID program was initially launched in 2022 and has since been rolled out to several public and commercial applications. In late 2024, the MVA partnered with Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) to enable Mobile ID usage at seven airport restaurants. Earlier this year, the state began a pilot program in Montgomery County, allowing digital age verification for alcohol purchases at the Westbard Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) location. Pending evaluation, the pilot may expand to all 27 ABS retail stores.

The system adheres to the ISO/IEC 18013-5 international standard for mobile driver’s licenses, which mandates strict privacy and data minimization practices. During verification, only necessary data points – such as age, photo, or ID status – are shared with the verifying entity, helping protect residents’ personal information. Maryland’s Mobile ID solution is also designed with interoperability in mind and is expected to be compatible with systems in other states, aligning with national efforts to create a unified digital identification infrastructure.

Sources: NottinghamMD, MobileIDWorld, TheBayNet

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May 16, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team