Mobile-ID

Mobile ID is a digital identity credential that allows users to create a contactless, highly secure, state-approved version of their driver’s license, permit or ID card accessible ¬on their smartphone to be used as a valid form of ID only for domestic air travel and merchants who choose to accept. The authenticity of a Mobile ID is ensured through verification with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), based on records created when a user applies for a driver’s license or state ID. Kentuckians must continue to carry a hard copy of their driver’s license or state identification.

The authenticity of a Mobile ID is ensured through verification with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC), based on records created when a user applies for a driver’s license or state ID.

1. Download the KY Mobile ID app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Register your phone number to bind your identity to your phone.
3. Capture the front and back of your physical ID using your phone’s camera. This scan will populate your information in the app to create your Mobile ID.
4. Take a selfie and complete liveness detection. Your photo and ID will be checked against KYTC records to ensure that you are who you say you are.
5. Activate your Mobile ID.

No. The Mobile ID currently serves as an addition to the hard copy ID rather than a replacement. It can be used anywhere the Mobile ID is accepted, in any context, a physical driver’s license or state-issued ID would be used to verify age or identity. Not all establishments will accept the Mobile ID; therefore, the physical ID must still be maintained. A hard copy of an individual’s driver’s license is required for operating a vehicle and must be presented to law enforcement when requested. This includes, but is not limited to, requests during traffic stops or following a traffic accident.

Mobile IDs are stored on a user’s smartphone—either in the Mobile ID app or in a supported digital wallet.

If you have multiple compatible devices like a smartphone and a tablet, you can only download the app on one device at a time. You can download the app onto your new device if you get a new smartphone. The app will deactivate on the old device.

If your phone is lost or stolen, no one else will be able to access the Mobile ID, even if they manage to unlock the phone. The use of a real-time selfie and fingerprint or face unlocking means ONLY you can access the app. If you need to purchase or activate a different device, you can enroll for Mobile ID on that device, which will make your previous version obsolete.

The mobile app has built-in “liveness detection” technology. When taking a selfie to unlock the app, you are prompted to hold your phone still and move your head to connect randomly generated dots on the screen. These movements verify that it really is you and not a photograph.

• A valid Kentucky driver’s license or photo ID.
• A smartphone that is not jailbroken or rooted.

*Minimum requirements: Android Version 12 or newer, iPhone iOS 16 or newer. EMUI 10 devices are not supported.

Implementing Kentucky Mobile ID is the first step before launching other digital driver licensing wallet options (e.g., Apple, Google, Samsung) in the future. Before releasing other digital wallet apps, Kentucky must first complete the modernization of its current driver licensing system in the summer of 2026. More information about the plans to launch other digital ID apps will be available at a later date.

Mobile ID can be used anywhere it's accepted; in any context, a physical driver's license or state-issued ID would be used to verify age or identity, including at various airport security checkpoints throughout the U.S.

For more information on which locations accept Mobile ID and how the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is moving forward with digital initiatives, visit tsa.gov.

Please note, it is currently still required to present a physical ID when requested by law enforcement.

Yes. Per state law, law enforcement can only accept a hard copy of a driver’s license when conducting a traffic stop or responding to a traffic accident. Mobile ID will not be accepted as a valid form of identification to operate a vehicle.

A citation may be issued to individuals driving without a hard copy of their driver’s license. Mobile ID is approved for domestic air travel only.

No. Mobile ID will not be accepted as a valid form of identification to operate a vehicle. Law enforcement may continue to request a hard copy of an individual’s driver’s license or state identification, and Kentuckians should be prepared to present it upon request.

A physical ID must be maintained and replaced if lost. A hard copy of an individual’s driver’s license is required for operating a vehicle and for any establishment that does not accept mobile ID and requests a physical copy.

Mobile ID offers citizens and parties a convenient, contactless and highly secure method for verifying identity while protecting personal information and privacy.

Mobile ID puts users in control of what information they share. For example, when making an age-restricted purchase, users can prove their age without disclosing any unnecessary information (like their address).

Mobile ID also offers a high level of assurance for verifiers. By creating a direct line of communication with consumers, Mobile ID allows KYTC to push updates to information such as an address change or status update, so verifiers can be confident the identity they are accepting is authentic and up to date

The Mobile ID app verifies your identity attributes and selfie photo against what is on file with the state. Only your Face ID, Touch ID or six-digit pin will unlock the app and access your Mobile ID. If your smartphone is lost or stolen, no one will be able to access your Mobile ID app. If you need to purchase or activate a different device, you can enroll for Mobile ID on that device, which will make your previous version obsolete.

Mobile ID doesn’t permanently collect, store or hold onto your personal data – except an encrypted version of your driver license number and phone number to use as a record locator. The only places your complete information is stored are on your phone and with KYTC.

If you are experiencing an issue with Mobile ID, please contact IDEMIA's representatives through the link below for support options, including FAQs, Email, Live Chat, and Helpdesk service hours.
IDEMIA Support

Mobile ID makes it simple to verify identification by using any of these contactless options:

1. Mobile ID Verify app: request only the ID fields you need to verify and scan a QR code generated by the Mobile ID. Download the free Mobile ID Verify app on App Store or Google Play to start.
2. Integrate Verify SDK into existing point-of-sale system.
3. Online verification integration

• You may hold an out-of-state credential.
• Your Kentucky credential may be expired, suspended, or inactive.
• Your personal information may not match what KYTC has on file.
• Your selfie may not match your license photo.

Tips for capturing a successful selfie:

• Make sure you are in a well-lit area, not backlit by a window or strong light, and in front of a neutral or plain backdrop such as a single-color wall.
• Hold the phone approximately 16 inches from your face. Not quite arm’s length. Do not fully extend your arms. Keep your elbows slightly bent, in a comfortable position with the phone held up at face level.
• If you are wearing glasses, please take them off and re-attempt the selfie.
• If the selfie times out, you may have taken too long. Simply restart the selfie.
• Breathe normally. Do not hold your breath. Relax and move your face, not the phone.
• Try to keep your face inside the OVAL shape on the screen.
• If identity fails to match, contact IDEMIA Support.

This error indicates a poor connection.

• Switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data.

• You must complete enrollment within 15 minutes.
• A new authorization link will be sent if you restart.