California typically leads the nation in many things, including standards, such as with safety and emission standards when it comes to vehicles. Sometimes these standards get implemented or serve as a framework for other states. Now California has yet another thing that could be useful not only for Californians, but beyond: mDL. What is mDL? It is a mobile driver’s license or identification card, which in CA is a part of the CA DMV wallet app, which could offer the convenience of using your phone as your DL/ID card. The TruAge capability, which can be activated when signing up for a mDL in the app, lets you verify your age for purchasing alcohol or entering 21+ establishments. However, not that many locations (unless you’re in LA or the Bay Area and Sacramento) actually accept this in place of a physical ID card, so you really should keep your physical card around.
However, the TruAge capability is more than just a way to buy age restricted items; it also helps to protect your data and privacy. TruAge only exposes necessary information: ID/DL number, issuing state, expiration date, and birthdate, sparing personal information like your address, and unlike mDL, isn’t CA specific, but available in 47 states. mDL isn’t CA exclusive either, as at least 18 other states have a similar program. mDL’s most standalone usage at the time being is at TSA checkpoints. Maybe one day, mDL/TruAge can be used at much more locations, such as a Walmart or a random bar/night club you want to check out.
I know I have been in situations where I’ve lost or forgot my ID/DL and that just sucks. The CA DMV Wallet app also has another nifty feature: a reader. Anyone with the app can read/scan your mDL to verify your identity or your age. Nice. Registering for your mDL is easy, should you want to try it out, and who knows, maybe it just might save you in a situation where you forgot your ID card. Do note that you actually need to have your physical ID/DL card in order to obtain a mDL, so it’s better to sign up for a mDL sooner rather than later.
