Here's what a digital driver's license looks like in Google Wallet on Android
December 20, 2022 By Monica Green
(Image Credit Google)
Google has begun beta testing digital driver's license and state ID card functionality on Android via Wallet, beginning with the state of Maryland.
Maryland has become the first state to support driver's licence and ID cards in Google Wallet for Android. A screen lock is necessary, while you "must switch on Bluetooth and Nearby devices". If you're using the current Google Play services beta, this will work with Android 8.0 and higher.
If you meet those requirements, the “Add to Wallet” list in Google Wallet will list “ID Card (Beta)” alongside Payment card, Transit pass, Loyalty, and Gift card. With state ID or driver’s license supported, Google Wallet for Android highlights three features:
- Easy: At the TSA checkpoint, just tap, review, and confirm
- Private: You control what’s shared from your ID and who’s allowed to see it
- Secure: Your ID is securely encrypted and saved on your device, so only you have access to it
Based on one user today, the setup process entails photographing the front and back of your ID, along with recording a short selfie video of oneself. After that, Google explains that a "picture from this video will be transmitted to your ID issuer for verification," and you submit the application.
Also Read: Iphone Owners Don't Need To Carry Driver’s License Now
In terms of usage, Google defines the procedure for NFC and QR codes, similar to vaccination cards, with screen lock authentication needed every time access:
- Turn off your phone.
- Hold the backside of your phone adjacent to the NFC terminal for a few seconds.
- Examine the information that will be given.
- The programme will prompt you to authenticate before proceeding.
- Wait for the blue check mark to confirm that the information was shared.
Google states that digital IDs are stored on your phone and can only be saved to a single device in terms of privacy. It can be erased from the app at any time, or through myaccount.google.com > Personal Info > Digital ID > Manage > Delete.
Meanwhile, digital ID will be unavailable if you are offline for even more than 30 days in a row. This is done to maintain the digital up to current, with access restored upon reconnecting.