TRENTON, N.J. — New Jersey will begin developing digital driver’s licenses and non-driver identification cards following legislation signed into law Wednesday by Governor Phil Murphy.
The new law directs the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to implement secure, mobile versions of driver’s licenses and IDs, known as mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs), which will be accessible through smartphones and other electronic devices.
“Digital driver’s licenses will make life easier for drivers across New Jersey,” Murphy said in a statement. “Innovation has always been at the core of who we are as a state, and my administration has embraced that spirit to deliver practical solutions that improve everyday life for our people.”
The legislation includes strong privacy protections, prohibiting the collection, sale, or sharing of personal information and barring anyone — including law enforcement — from requiring a person to hand over their device during ID verification. Displaying a digital license does not imply consent to search or access other phone data.
Participation will be voluntary, allowing residents to continue using traditional physical licenses if preferred.
The bill’s sponsors include Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, Assemblymen William Sampson IV and Clinton Calabrese, former Senator Nellie Pou, and Senator Patrick Diegnan.
“With so much being done on smartphones these days, it’s only logical to offer New Jersey residents the option of a mobile driver license or non-driver ID,” said Latrecia Littles-Floyd, acting chief administrator of the MVC.
At least 15 states and Puerto Rico already offer digital licenses, with another 10 jurisdictions planning implementation. New Jersey’s Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations Act includes $1.5 million to support the program, with funding available through FY2026.
“Digital licenses mean residents can carry their ID securely and conveniently on their phones,” said Assemblyman Sampson. “This legislation is about meeting people where they are and embracing the tools that make everyday tasks easier and faster.”
