The University of Texas is launching a digital version of the UT ID in the 2027-28 academic year.
According to a UT News blog posted on March 23, students will get their new digital IDs from MyUT student portal. After that, they can use them to get into campus buildings, check out library books, and complete other tasks that currently require a physical ID card.
The blog states that students started asking about digital IDs back in 2019, but university administrators only recently agreed to pass legislation making the change official. UT Student Government President Hudson Thomas and Vice President Thierry Chu helped push the long-awaited initiative over the finish line.
Thomas and Chu released a joint statement on the development. “For years, students called for digital IDs, and together, we delivered,” it reads. “We are honored to have had Student Government partner with our incredible university administrators to make this long-standing student vision a shared reality.”
The new digital IDs are being facilitated by a company called Enterprise Technology, and they’ll be available on Apple and Android wallets. Physical IDs will also remain in use “allowing for a smooth transition while the Longhorn community becomes accustomed to using the digital ID,” the blog states.
The blog predicts that the change will result in less lost ID fees for students and reduced ID card expenses for the university. Not only that, but the program should promote enhanced convenience and security.
“Over time, the platform will enable additional capabilities,creating new opportunities to tap to access services, make purchases, and engage with campus resources directly from a mobile device,” the blog states.