New law allows creation of mobile driver's licenses, state IDs in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinoisans will soon have the ability to ask for a digital driver's license or state ID. A new state law will allow the Secretary of State's office to launch the process of finding vendors for digital ID production.

The expected digital IDs will include a barcode so people will not have to give their phone to officers during traffic stops.

Rep. Kam Buckner discussed his digital ID legislation on May 20, 2024.

Democratic sponsors said digital IDs can make it easier to provide proof that you are qualified to drive and identify yourself at stores, banks or medical offices. Although, Republicans worry there won't be enough safeguards in place for your private information.

"If for some reason someone did feel compelled to give their device to an officer, a sheriff, or a trooper, we've got some very specific language here in Section 9 that says the display of a license shall not serve as authorization for law enforcement or any other person to search, view or access any other data in your phone," said Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago).

Buckner explained police will not be able to look through someone's phone unless they had a search warrant.

Some lawmakers noted that there could be issues with internet connection to access a mobile ID, which could be a disadvantage for people who don't have WiFi.

"It could perhaps permit commercial entities to discriminate or charge higher fees," said Rep. Kelly Cassidy (D-Chicago). "We see this in places that are refusing to take cash. So, there's some concerns there."

18 other states are currently working on implementing digital ID systems. 12 states already offer digital forms of identification.

"Smartphones have become convenient places to store everything from movie tickets, boarding passes and credit cards," said Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias. "With technological advancements and additional safeguards to make it the most secure and state-of-the-art system in the nation, we're confident Illinoisans will soon have the option to carry a digital version of their driver's license or state ID."

The new law takes effect January 1.