IL could allow digital access to licenses and IDs through new bill

ILLINOIS (WCIA) — New legislation in Illinois could allow driver’s licenses and IDs to be used and stored digitally on smartphones.

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced Tuesday that he is backing the proposition, alongside State Representative Kam Buckner (D-Chicago), and State Senator Michael Hastings (D-Tinley Park), who both sponsor the bill.

With smartphones establishing a firm grasp on everyday life, both Giannoulias and Hastings cited ease of access and convenience as reasons why this legislation is necessary. The Secretary of State’s Office clarified that the use of digital IDs would not eliminate physical driver’s licenses, but could be used alongside them.

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“With technological advancements and additional safeguards to make it the most secure and state-of-the-art system in the nation, were confident Illinoisans will soon have the option to carry a digital version of their drivers license or state ID,” Giannoulias said.

“The move to digital IDs represents a growing trend across the country as the technology has become even more fraud-resistant than physical cards,” Hastings said. “In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic sped up the widespread adoption of contactless identification methods significantly, including digital IDs.”

Buckner and the Secretary of State’s Office argue that new technology offers more privacy in using digital IDs. They said privacy control options allow people to verify their age when legally purchasing alcohol, cannabis or renting a car, while hiding other personal information like their address.

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“Innovation serves as the underpinning of our work to make lives better through better technology,” Buckner said. “A digital ID is a logical next step when it comes to providing proof that you’re qualified to drive and identifying yourself at stores, banks and doctors offices. I’m confident this legislation will ensure that the implementation of digital IDs is done in the right way to protect the privacy of all Illinoisans.”

Giannoulias said the initiative could also help reduce the infamous wait at the DMV. Changes to digital IDs and licenses could be made remotely, rather than having to visit in-person.

If the bill passes, digital IDs could be utilized as early as next year, and Illinois would join 12 other states that already allow them.

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