Mobile license coming soon. For more than a century, the physical driver’s license has been the go-to ID across the U.S. But in a world where smartphones handle everything from payments to plane tickets, the plastic card is starting to look outdated. Verifying your identity still often means pulling out a physical card — even though the tech to do it digitally has long existed. Now, that gap may finally start to close: 16 states have just been cleared to roll out digital driver’s licenses, bringing a mobile-first future one step closer.
The digital driving license is here
That gap is closing fast. In recent years, a wave of digital ID efforts — from Real ID mandates to state-backed mobile apps — has laid the groundwork for a more virtual future. Governments and tech companies have already piloted systems across more than a dozen states, but progress has been careful, often limited to test runs and regional trials.
That measured pace has sparked both momentum and hesitation. While many welcome the convenience, concerns remain: how will data be protected? Will law enforcement gain new access? And will digital IDs actually be accepted everywhere? Now, a shift is underway — one that could move digital IDs from experimental to expected, and put the license in your phone, not your wallet.
Changes in North Carolina
Starting July 1, two new laws in North Carolina will change how residents ride and drive—one affecting fares, the other modernizing identification. The first law updates how North Carolinians can carry their license. The North Carolina General Assembly approved the House Bill 199, and now digital driver’s licenses will now be recognized as legal ID. While the DMV has not launched registration for mobile licenses yet, the law clears the path for their use in the near future.
Mobile licenses are expected to function in many of the same places as physical licenses—from TSA checkpoints to age-restricted venues and traffic stops—though usage may vary across states. When implemented, the digital version will be treated the same as the traditional card, giving residents a new option to prove identity in a digital-first world.
The second introduces a new state tax on all rides booked through services like Uber, Lyft, and even traditional taxis. Called the Transportation Commerce Tax, it will contribute to North Carolina’s Highway Fund, which covers road and bridge upkeep.
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Solo or private rides will be taxed at 1.5%.
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Shared rides—when riders are matched with others—will be taxed at 1%.
These charges will show up directly on the rider’s receipt, much like a sales tax. The responsibility for collecting and submitting the tax falls to the ride service company, unless a driver is operating independently.
The changes in other states
At least 16 states across the U.S. have started rolling out digital driver’s licenses, allowing residents to store valid IDs on their smartphones or smartwatches. iPhone and Apple Watch users, for instance, can add their license to Apple Wallet and use it at certain TSA checkpoints or participating businesses, according to Apple Support. The system uses biometric authentication like Face ID or Touch ID, and all data is encrypted. Apple notes that it doesn’t track when or where the ID is used daily.
Pennsylvania not embracing mobile license
A key benefit of mobile IDs is privacy control. Rather than handing over all personal details, users can confirm just what’s needed—such as proving legal age to buy alcohol—without exposing their full address or license number. Pennsylvania, however, is not among the states offering digital driver’s licenses. While officials haven’t provided a clear explanation, concerns over data security and the ongoing implementation of the program likely play a role.