Gov. Murphy signs legislation for digital driver’s licenses and identification cards

TRENTON, N.J. (WPHL) — New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation on Thursday that would create the option of digital driver’s licenses and identification cards in the Garden State.

According to state officials, digital driver’s licenses, also known as mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs), offer both convenience and security. Since they can be accessed on mobile devices, it would make it easier for people to keep their licenses or ID cards with them at all times.

The legislation has safeguards for users’ security and privacy, along with protections for individuals when using the digital license or ID card. For example, it prohibits persons and entities, including law enforcement, from requiring the mDL holder to turn over their device.

The bill also includes that displaying the digital identification does not imply consent to a search or access to other phone data, and that information seen while verifying identity cannot be used as probable cause for a search warrant.

Officials note that the new legislation for the digital identification cards is voluntary, meaning residents “without access or interest” can continue using physical driver’s licenses and identification cards.

According to the state, the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Act allocated $1.5 million towards implementing mDLs, with these resources remaining available for FY2026. At least 15 states and Puerto Rico have implemented mDL programs, with another 10 states and Washington, DC planning to follow suit.