New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has signed legislation mandating the creation of digital driver’s licenses and non-driver identification cards, making the state one of the latest to adopt mobile identification technology.
Under the new law, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) is tasked with developing and implementing secure, smartphone-compatible digital licenses, commonly referred to as mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs). The initiative aims to modernize state services by providing residents with a digital alternative to traditional physical IDs.
Digital licenses are expected to offer a range of benefits, including enhanced convenience, improved security, and easier access to state-issued identification. They will allow users to update personal information electronically and reduce the risk of losing or misplacing a physical card. The program is voluntary, ensuring that residents can continue using physical licenses if they prefer.
The legislation includes extensive privacy and security measures. These include strict limitations on the collection, use, and sharing of data related to digital licenses. The law also prohibits any person or entity—including law enforcement—from requiring individuals to hand over their mobile device to verify identity. Displaying a digital license does not imply consent to search the device, and any information visible during identity verification cannot be used to establish probable cause.
State agencies have already allocated funding to support the rollout. The Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Act includes $1.5 million to implement the program, with funds available through Fiscal Year 2026. At least 15 states and Puerto Rico have already launched similar mDL programs, with additional jurisdictions preparing to follow.