Colorado Joins the Digital Wave: State IDs Now Accessible via Google Wallet

LAKEWOOD, CO., Oct. 18, 2023 – In a significant stride towards digital innovation, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) unveiled a feature allowing Coloradans to add their driver license or State Identification (ID) card to Google Wallet. This development, announced on Wednesday, streamlines the identification process at selected TSA PreCheck® checkpoints, including Denver International Airport (DEN), by a mere tap or QR code scan on their Android phones.

The digital incorporation of Colorado IDs into Google Wallet aims to enhance the security and convenience of identification verification for residents. According to DOR Executive Director Heidi Humphreys, this initiative embodies Colorado's dedication to "revolutionizing how Coloradans experience time, convenience, and security." She further emphasized that the mission is to render fundamental daily life aspects easily accessible to everyone in the state.

Colorado emerges among the pioneer states to integrate IDs into Google Wallet, signaling a broader shift towards digital identification systems. However, the DMV stresses that this digital version is a companion to the physical, plastic driver license or ID card, not a replacement. Coloradans are required to carry their physical driver license or ID card with them continuously.

DMV Senior Director Electra Bustle expressed enthusiasm about the collaborative endeavor with the Transportation Security Administration and Google. She noted that this service aligns with Colorado's ongoing effort to refine its operational efficiency, prioritizing the "security, privacy, and convenience" of its residents. The mobile credentialing program expansion, Bustle believes, will significantly enrich the travel experience for Colorado residents by simplifying the identification verification process.

The process to add a Colorado ID to Google Wallet is straightforward. Residents need to follow instructions, which include tapping their Android phone or presenting the QR code from their Colorado ID in Google Wallet at the identity reader at a TSA PreCheck® security checkpoint. The system prompts users on their device, displaying the specific information requested by the TSA, which, upon approval, gets shared for verification purposes. The identification information remains secure, and a photograph captured by the TSA reader completes the verification procedure.

All identification data shared during this process remains digital, alleviating the need for individuals to hand over their devices or physical IDs. The advanced security features embedded within the Android phone ensure the encrypted storage of the driver license or ID card, granting access only upon the user's decision to share it.

Residents can visit the DMV's dedicated webpage or watch the instructional videos provided for a detailed walkthrough on adding and presenting the Colorado ID via Google Wallet.

This digital ID initiative underscores Colorado's endeavor to stay ahead in leveraging technology to simplify bureaucratic processes, emphasizing a user-centric approach to service delivery.