Ohioans can now add driver's licenses and IDs to Google Wallet
Ohio residents with Android devices can now add their driver's license or state ID to Google Wallet, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles announced Monday.
The Ohio Mobile ID gives residents a digital companion to their physical credential and was first made available to Apple Wallet users in July 2024 . The BMV said people who use the digital ID should continue carrying their physical driver's license or state ID. The program is voluntary and free.
"Ohio is proud to announce this latest innovation that simplifies access to BMV services," Gov. Mike DeWine said in a press release. "Ohio Mobile ID in Google Wallet is now the latest in a long line of new features that save time and make it more convenient for Ohioans to interact with the BMV."
The digital ID allows users to securely store and present their identity information. Before an ID is shared, users can review what information will be provided.
The BMV said digital IDs are encrypted on the device and protected by personal authentication. If a device is lost or stolen, the digital ID can be deleted through remote data erase features.
Ohio BMV Registrar Charlie Norman said the Android option expands the state's Mobile ID program.
"Ohioans have been asking for an Android solution, and we are pleased to deliver it," Norman said. "Secure identity is foundational to our mission at the Ohio BMV, and we have spent the last several years designing this program to safeguard Ohioans' privacy while providing cutting‑edge convenience."
Ohio Mobile ID can be used to verify age or identity at participating businesses and venues, many state buildings, all TSA checkpoints nationwide and Ohio casinos. Mobile ID will not be accepted as a form of identification for voting and a physical ID must be presented at the polls.
The digital IDs can only be presented and validated through readers designed to decrypt the credential, similar to tap-to-pay technology.
To add an Ohio driver's license or state ID to Google Wallet, users can open the Google Wallet app or download it from Google Play, select "Add to Wallet," choose "ID Card," select "Ohio" and follow the verification prompts.
The guided process to add a Mobile ID takes about 5 minutes to complete and involves scanning both sides of your ID and then recording a short video with your camera. Once submitted, it will be queued for verification before you can use it. More information is available at the Ohio BMV's website.
The BMV said the program follows national and international privacy, security and interoperability standards. The Ohio Mobile ID can also be used in other states where mobile IDs are supported.
