Mobile Identification (mID)

A mobile identification card (mID) or mobile driver’s license is a digital representation of the information contained in a physical identification card or driver’s license, stored on, or accessed with the help of a smart device (owned and controlled by the ID or license holder) such as a cell phone. By downloading the Alaska mID app, one can verify identity and display their ID when necessary to prove age or identity. Alaska mID offers even more security than the physical, plastic ID card because you get to choose what information about yourself that you share with others.

The Alaska DMV will begin to issue the mobile identification as an option for Alaskans who want one, for no additional fee. Both the holder and the verifier apps are free to download.

The Alaska mID technology requires the holder of the device (Alaskan citizen) and reader device (example: Transportation Security Administration [TSA], retail establishment, law enforcement) to establish a secure connection (prompted by the holder) before identity data can be transmitted and verified. This allows Alaskans to prove their identity, age status, and driving rights using their mobile devices.

The Alaska mID is expected to be accepted at TSA checkpoints that support digital IDs in mid to late 2025. It is advisable to check with your airline and TSA for the latest information.

o   Learn more about mDL and TSA here: TSA & Digital ID

o   Learn which airports accept mDL’s here: TSA Accepted Locations Map

No.  The Alaska DMV is offering the mobile credential as a companion to your physical driver’s license/identification card. Alaskans can opt in for a mobile credential if they choose to – but no one is required to have an Alaska mID if not interested.

The Alaska mID solution will be compatible with all modern smartphones running recent versions of iOS or Android.

The Alaska mID will be stored in a secure digital wallet app on the user device, created by Alaska’s driver’s license vendor, managed and controlled by the holder.

Yes, a hard card will still be issued and required for every Alaskan who wants an mID. The mobile credential will serve as a companion to your physical driver’s license/identification card – it is not a replacement of the physical card, and you must continue to carry your physical driver license or state ID with you.

No retailers will be required to accept the mID, although they are encouraged to do so. If a retailer refuses to accept the Alaska mID, they will simply need to use the hard card credential for identification or age verification. The Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will continue to work with verifier groups to familiarize them with Alaska mID and its uses. We expect mobile identification acceptance to continually grow over time.

The Alaska DMV is committed to safeguarding your privacy. Personal data collected through the mID application will be managed in compliance with state confidentiality laws and our vendor’s Privacy Policy, which details the types of information collected, how it is used, and the measures in place to protect your data. Thales Privacy Policy can be found here: Privacy Policy

You will not be able to display your Alaska mobile ID without having power on your device. Present your physical driver license/ID to the retail merchant or have the law enforcement officer manually look up your driver record.

For further support please contact: ITSM.ibs.AKsmartid-support@apps.thalesgroup.com

Your Alaska mobile ID is encrypted and securely stored on your device. It is always accessible and usable. No cellular service is needed.

For further support please contact: ITSM.ibs.AKsmartid-support@apps.thalesgroup.com

Your Alaska mobile ID is not accessible without your PIN, fingerprint, or face ID. It can be remotely deactivated and wiped from the device almost instantly by notifying ALASKA DMV.

For further support please contact: ITSM.ibs.AKsmartid-support@apps.thalesgroup.com

Your Alaska mobile ID will work with virtually any device and mobile provider. On a new device, download the app, repeat authentication, and reload your Alaska Mobile ID. Please ensure the credential is removed or deleted from your previous device.

For further support please contact: ITSM.ibs.AKsmartid-support@apps.thalesgroup.com

You must have a pin code on your phone in order to download Alaska’s Mobile ID application.  If you do not have a pin code you will receive this error and you are unable to download the app.

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