Little Rock, Arkansas – In a significant step toward modernizing access to identification, Arkansas has launched the Arkansas Mobile ID, allowing residents to store and use their state IDs and driver’s licenses directly on their smartphones. The new digital IDs, available for download via the “Arkansas Mobile ID” app, promise to make everyday transactions more convenient and secure for Arkansans.
The Arkansas Mobile ID is a state-approved, contactless credential that can be used at participating businesses and venues. The app is available for both iOS and Android users, accessible through the Apple App Store or Google Play by searching for “AR Mobile ID.” Once downloaded, users can enroll their digital license or ID and begin using it as a valid form of identification.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders emphasized that the rollout of the mobile ID is part of a broader effort to modernize state government services. “My administration is working to make Arkansas government more efficient at every level,” said Sanders. “The rollout of a secure mobile ID will help Arkansans access their documents when and where they need them and brings state government in line with 21st century technology.”
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One of the standout features of the Arkansas Mobile ID is the control it gives users over their personal information. The app allows individuals to share only the necessary details when using their ID, such as proving their age for age-restricted purchases, without revealing unnecessary personal information like an address. This added layer of privacy ensures that Arkansans can maintain greater control over their data while using the mobile ID for everyday needs.
Jim Hudson, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA), highlighted the convenience and security of the new digital IDs. “Arkansans will now have quick and easy access to their driver’s license or ID on their cell phone,” Hudson said. “I encourage Arkansans to take advantage of this free resource as they can control who their information is shared with from the license or ID. It empowers the citizen and ensures a state-issued credential is consistently accessible.”
As of now, less than 15 states in the U.S. offer digital driver’s licenses or IDs. Arkansas joins a select group of states, including Louisiana, Mississippi, and Georgia, in offering this advanced service to its residents. The move positions Arkansas as a leader in the digital ID space, offering residents a more efficient way to manage their official credentials.
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While the Arkansas Mobile ID is already available for use at participating businesses, the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration is working closely with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ensure that the digital ID will be accepted for air travel. TSA approval is expected by the summer of 2025, making it possible for Arkansans to use their digital IDs for identification when boarding flights.
The list of businesses and organizations accepting the Arkansas Mobile ID is expected to grow over time. For verification purposes, law enforcement officers and businesses can use a free app called the Mobile ID Verify app to confirm the validity of the digital IDs. This ensures that the new technology maintains a high level of security and trustworthiness.
The Arkansas Mobile ID provides a seamless blend of convenience, security, and privacy. It not only allows Arkansans to access their IDs wherever they go but also ensures that sensitive personal data is protected. With the growing acceptance of digital credentials, Arkansas is leading the charge in modernizing how residents interact with their state-issued identification.
