KENTUCKY (WKYT) – The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is now offering Kentucky Mobile ID, the state’s official app that stores standard or Real ID driver’s licenses and identification cards.
The digital ID functions similarly to mobile payment apps like Apple Pay, providing contactless identity verification through smartphones.
“It’s convenient because everything else is on your phone. A lot of people use their phones to pay at the grocery store, at the gas station with a tap, so it’s the same idea, it’s contactless identity verification because it’s right there in the palm of your hand,” said Naitore Djigbenou, KYTC’s public affairs director.
Enhanced privacy and airport convenience
Djigbenou said the digital ID can be particularly useful for air travel, comparing it to digital boarding passes that have become popular with travelers.
“So very similar to the way a lot of people prefer these days to having a digital boarding pass instead of printing off a physical one just to make it easier to pass through airport security checkpoints,” Djigbenou said.
The digital format also creates more privacy by allowing users to share only relevant information.
“You don’t have to share personal information that’s not relevant, like your address for example when someone, all they need to know is your age to sell you something,” Djigbenou said.
Physical ID still required in some situations
The digital ID does not replace the need for a physical ID card in certain circumstances.
Richmond Police Chief Rodney Richardson said drivers are required by law to carry their physical driver’s license while operating a vehicle.
“So you got situations where you might be pulled over, you got situations where you might’ve been involved in a collision, and those are times when you have to have your physical ID present,” Richardson said.
Kentucky Mobile ID is free to download through the App Store or Google Play.
A Real ID is required to fly or visit military bases. Some Kentucky airports are not yet accepting the digital versions, so travelers should verify acceptance at their departure location ahead of time.
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