GLEN BURNIE, MD – The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) has introduced Mobile ID Check by MD, a free app designed to help businesses accept mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs) and IDs for secure, in-person age verification. The app is now available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play, providing businesses with a cost-effective way to implement the technology without additional hardware.
New Use Case at BWI Airport
The app is already being utilized at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) for age verification in the sale of alcoholic beverages. Participating establishments at the airport include Flying Dog Tap House, Firkin & Flyer, Obrycki’s, R&R Seafood Bar (A and D/E), La Cocina Mexicana, and Brix & Vine.
“We’re excited to partner with the MVA and our restaurant partners to offer travelers a convenient, efficient way to verify age when purchasing alcohol,” said Ricky Smith, Executive Director/CEO of BWI Marshall Airport.
Enhanced Security and Privacy
The app, developed by the MVA’s Information Technology team, is compliant with ISO18013-5, an international standard for mobile driver’s licenses. It ensures businesses only receive necessary information—such as a customer’s age and ID photo—protecting consumers’ privacy.
“The MVA continues to be a leader in developing and implementing mobile driver’s licenses,” said Motor Vehicle Administrator Chrissy Nizer. “By increasing locations where mDLs can be accepted, we’re encouraging more Marylanders to take advantage of the convenience, security, and privacy that mobile driver’s licenses offer.”
Partnerships and Future Expansion
The MVA collaborated with the Anne Arundel County Liquor Board, BWI Marshall Airport, Fraport USA, and HMSHost to implement the app at BWI.
Wayne B. Harris, Chairman of the Board of License Commissioners for Anne Arundel County, expressed optimism about the program: “We look forward to bringing more secure ways for mobile ID acceptance to even more businesses.”
The initiative is part of a broader effort by the MVA to expand the use of mDLs. The agency is working with the National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, along with 15 technology providers and organizations such as Microsoft, the Department of Homeland Security, and US Bank, to explore additional applications, including online transactions, financial services, and healthcare.
How to Use Mobile ID Check by MD
Businesses can download the app for free and immediately begin accepting mDLs issued by Maryland and other states. Maryland residents can add their Mobile ID to Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet. However, the MVA advises residents to continue carrying their physical driver’s licenses or IDs.
Existing TSA Integration
Maryland Mobile ID can also be used at select Transportation Security Administration checkpoints, including at BWI and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
For more information on mobile ID solutions for iPhone, click here. For Android solutions, click here.
