Introducing the Montana Mobile ID Program

Montana Mobile ID logo

Mobile ID is a secure, digital version of your Montana driver license or state-issued ID stored on a smartphone or other mobile device. This technology is available for both Android and iOS.

Montana Mobile ID Verifier
ID in Apple Wallet
ID in Google Wallet

Increasing Privacy for Citizens

Advantages of using a mobile ID

  • Easy to obtain and use – anyone with a valid credential and qualifying mobile device can add a Mobile ID to their digital wallet free of charge.
  • Convenient and easily accessible – take it everywhere you have your mobile device.
  • Safe, private, and secure – Mobile ID allows customers to share only the necessary information (e.g., age verification) without revealing other personal details. Customers can review and authorize any requested information before it is shared.

Reducing Risk for Businesses

Advantages of accepting mobile IDs

  • Enhanced security and fraud prevention - Mobile IDs are verified by MVD, reducing the risk of accepting fraudulent or expired IDs.
  • Selective disclosure of information - Mobile ID allows customers to share only the necessary information (e.g., age verification) without revealing other personal details. This not only enhances their privacy but also reduces the amount of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) business owners could be responsible for.
  • Reduced risk of underage sales - The secure verification process and automated checks significantly lower the risk of selling age-restricted products to underage individuals.

Choose your digital wallet to learn more and get started

ID in Apple Wallet

Preview of ID in Apple Wallet on an iPhone. Mobile ID shows bison skill design with text for name of ID holder and Montana.
Information and FAQ

ID in Google Wallet

Preview of ID in Google Wallet on a Pixel Phone. Mobile ID shows image of mountain goat with text for name of ID holder and Montana.
Information and FAQ
Preview of Montana Mobile ID Verification App, Shows Age Check 18+ button and Age Check 21+ button.

Montana Mobile ID Verifier

Age Verification for Businesses

As adoption of mobile IDs continues to grow, it’s important to ensure your business is prepared to accept them. Montana Mobile ID Verifier allows businesses and organizations to verify mobile IDs right on their iPhone or Android device. No additional hardware needed.

Information and FAQ
Apple Logo, Download on the App Store
Google Play Logo, Get it on Google Play

Mobile ID FAQ

General Questions

1What is a Mobile ID?
A Mobile ID is a digital version of your physical driver license or state-issued ID stored securely on your smartphone via Apple Wallet (iPhone) or Google Wallet (Android).
2Is a Mobile ID legally valid?
Yes, in participating states. It is accepted at TSA checkpoints in select airports and by some law enforcement and businesses. However, it is not yet universally accepted, so keep your physical license or ID as backup.
3Which states currently support Mobile IDs?
As of mid-2025, examples include:
  • Apple Wallet: Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Montana, New Mexico
  • Google Wallet: See google support article for latest information
4Do I still need to carry my physical license or state-issued ID?
Yes. Most states and agencies recommend carrying your physical license or ID, since not all places accept Mobile Ids (e.g., bars, out-of-state law enforcement).

Device and App Questions

1What phones are supported?
  • Apple Wallet: iPhone 8 or later with iOS 17 or newer
  • Google Wallet: Android 9.0 or later with Google Play Services enabled
    • 2How do I add my Mobile ID to Apple Wallet?
    1. Open Apple Wallet, tap the “+” icon.
    2. Select “Driver’s License or State ID.”
    3. Follow prompts to scan your physical ID and take a selfie.
    4. Verify with your state’s MVD.
    3How do I add my Mobile ID to Google Wallet?
    1. Open the Google Wallet app.
    2. Tap “Add to Wallet” → ID Card → State-issued ID.
    3. Select your state and follow instructions (including ID scan and facial verification).
    4. Complete verification through your state’s MVD site.
    4Is there a cost to add my Mobile ID to my wallet?
    Usually no, but it depends on the state. Most states, including Montana, offer it for free with a valid license.

    Security and Privacy

    1Is my Mobile ID safe on my phone?
    Yes. Both Apple and Google use on-device encryption, biometric authentication, and do not share personal data with Apple, Google, or others without your permission.
    2Can police scan my phone if I use my Mobile ID?
    No. Mobile IDs are designed to present only necessary data, like name and birthdate. Officers don’t need to hold or unlock your phone—they use NFC or QR code scanning to verify your ID without accessing other data.
    3What if I lose my phone?
    • Use Find My iPhone or Find My Device to lock/erase your phone.
    • Your Mobile ID is protected with biometric or passcode authentication and can’t be accessed without unlocking your phone.
    • Replace your Mobile ID on a new device using your MVD credentials.

    Use Cases

    1Where can I use my Mobile ID today?
    • Some TSA Checkpoints: check with the airport directly for specific information
    • Some State Government Services, including Montana Motor Vehicle Division
    • Some Business Uses: Liquor stores, banks, car rentals, and hotels as businesses adopt the Mobile ID verification technology. Check for the “Montana Mobile ID Accepted Here” signage.
    2Can I use it out of state?
    You can use wherever Mobile IDs are accepted, which may not include all states or federal agencies. Always carry your physical license when traveling.

    Montana Mobile IDs & Law Enforcement

    1Can I use my Montana Mobile ID when law enforcement requests my driver license?
    Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) can verify mobile IDs. If you choose to present your mobile ID, simply let the trooper know you would like to use it.

    MVD always recommends carrying a valid physical license or ID for verification while mobile ID acceptance continues to expand across law enforcement agencies in Montana.
    2Why do I need to notify the officer before presenting my Montana Mobile ID?
    Not all law enforcement agencies have the same capabilities and technologies. For example, the Montana Highway Patrol is the only law enforcement agency in the state able to accept a mobile ID at this time. Notifying the officer that you would like to use your mobile ID will reduce confusion and ensure the law enforcement officer is prepared to accept your mobile ID.

    Remember, you always have the option to present your physical credential.
    3What information does Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) receive when I present my Montana Mobile ID?
    Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) receives the same information they would receive from your physical credential. The verification process mirrors a traditional traffic stop, and no additional data or new checks are introduced when you use a mobile ID.

    You DO NOT need to hand the trooper your phone to present your Montana Mobile ID during a traffic stop.
    4How can I present my Montana Mobile ID when law enforcement requests my driver license or state-issued ID card?

    iPhone and Apple Watch

    All information is shared digitally, so you do not need to unlock, show your screen, or hand over your Phone or Apple Watch to present your mobile ID.
    1. On an iPhone using Face ID, double-click the side button. On an iPhone with Touch ID, double-click the Home button. If prompted, authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID.
    2. Tap your driver license or ID.
    3. Hold the top of your iPhone near the identity reader.
    4. On the screen of your device, review the information that will be shared.
    5. To provide your consent:
      • On an iPhone using Face ID: Double-click the side button.
      • On an iPhone using Touch ID: Hold your finger on the Home button.
      • On an Apple Watch: Double-click the side button.
    A check mark appears when you successfully present your driver license or state-issued ID.

    Android Phone

    With an Android phone there are two ways to share Mobile ID information with MHP.

    With Near Field Communication (NFC)
    1. Unlock your phone.
    2. For a few seconds, hold the back of your phone close to the NFC.
    3. Review the info that will be shared.
    4. Before you can proceed, the app will ask you to authenticate.
    5. To confirm that the info was shared, wait for the blue check
    Tip: If you aren’t able to share your ID with NFC:
    • Try to hold your phone in a different way. Your NFC antenna could be near the top or bottom of your device.
    • Hold your phone closer to the reader.
    • For a few extra seconds, hold your phone to the reader.
    • If you still have issues, use your physical ID.
    With a QR code
    1. Open the Google Wallet app.
    2. Scroll to find driver license or ID.
    3. Tap your ID or license.
    4. Allow the QR code on your ID to be scanned.
    5. Review the info that will be shared.
    6. Before you can proceed, the app will ask you to authenticate.
    7. To confirm that the info was shared, wait for the blue check mark.

    5Video: How to Present ID in Apple Wallet to Law Enforcement
    6Do all Montana law enforcement agencies accept Montana Mobile IDs?
    No. The Montana Highway Patrol is equipped to electronically verify Mobile IDs, but MVD always recommends carrying a valid physical ID for verification while mobile ID acceptance continues to expand across law enforcement agencies in Montana.
    7What happens if my device is out of battery, lost, or damaged? Can I still present my mobile ID?
    When asked by law enforcement, you must always be able to present your driver license. MVD always recommends carrying a valid physical ID for verification.
    8What if I’m from out of state - can I present my Mobile ID from another state?
    Yes, if you have a valid and compliant mobile ID, Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) will be able to accept it.

    Legal Disclaimer

    Android, Google Play and Google Wallet are trademarks of Google LLC.

    Additional Information

    Montana Mobile ID Terms and Conditions

    Privacy Policy

    Mobile IDs in Montana use the AAMVA Digital Trust Service with ISO standards for mDLs

    View the MT IACA Certificate