Digital Driver’s Licenses To Debut In NJ

By Morgan Leason | New Jersey Monitor

Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation last Wednesday requiring the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission to create digital driver’s licenses, giving residents the option to present a mobile ID to verify their identity.

The rollout, however, remains more than three years away. It’s also likely the state will have to apply for a federal waiver because of Real ID requirements, which began in May.

Officials say the new law will help people who forget their licenses or IDs and also allow them to update their documents electronically.

“Digital driver’s licenses will make life easier for drivers across New Jersey,” Murphy said in a statement. “Innovation has always been at the core of who we are as a state, and my administration has embraced that spirit to deliver practical solutions that improve everyday life for our people. By bringing government services into the digital age, we’re setting a new standard for how the public interacts with State agencies.”

At least 15 states and Puerto Rico have implemented mobile driver’s license programs, with another 10 states and Washington, D.C., planning to follow.

The state budget allocates $1.5 million toward implementing mobile driver’s licenses.

Under the law, allowing a police officer or judge to look at a mobile license does not mean you are consenting to have them review the other contents of your phone.

The bill passed overwhelmingly in the Legislature earlier this year.

“Digital licenses mean residents can carry their ID securely and conveniently on their phones, whether they’re renewing it, verifying their age, or interacting with state services,” bill sponsor Assemblyman William Sampson (D-Hudson) said in a statement. “This legislation is about meeting people where they are and embracing the tools that make everyday tasks easier and faster.”

Individuals may continue to use physical licenses and are not required to switch to a digital license.

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