mDL Q&A

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use my mDL?

mDL in Apple and Google Wallets:

  • mDL in Apple and Google Wallets can be used for identity verification at select airports. Additional uses forthcoming.

Only available via CA DMV Wallet:

  • Your mDL in the CA DMV Wallet can be used for age and identity verification at select locations and airports as well as to log into your MyDMV account or apply for a CA Disabled Person Parking Placard. You can also use the mDL Reader in the CA DMV Wallet to verify another mDL holder’s identity in real time.

What do I do if my mDL is rejected?

If you have a valid (Not expired or suspended) Driver’s License or ID Card, you can apply for mDL again and follow the helpful tips below on card scanning and selfie/liveness/video capture. If you are using other wallets to request an mDL and get rejected, you may request an mDL through the official CA DMV Wallet to get better chance of success. Below are some tips to help with a successful mDL enrollment:

Helpful tips for card scanning:

  • Make sure there is no wear or damage on either side of your DL/ID card. If the card is damaged, you will need to request a replacement before enrolling.
  • Ensure your DL/ID card is placed on a dark flat surface with good lighting when taking the photo.

Helpful tips for Liveness/Video check:

  • Keep your phone steady at eye level.
  • No headwear
  • Use plain background
  • Use indoor with consistent and ample lighting on the face
  • No other faces in the frame
  • No camera effects
  • No low power or greyscale mode
  • If you are wearing sunglasses, take them off

Give feedback on the mDL

mDL in Apple Wallet

ID in Apple Wallet is a voluntary, secure, digitized version of your California driver’s license (DL) or identification card (ID) available on your iPhone and Apple Watch.

  • You must have a valid California driver’s license or state ID card.
  • iPhone XS or later, or an Apple Watch Series 4 or later, with the latest version of iOS or watchOS.

For more information, please see​ the Add your driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet.

On your iPhone, open the Apple Wallet app.

  • Tap the Add (+) button.
  • Tap Driver’s License or State ID and choose California.
  • Choose whether you want to add it to your iPhone only or to both your iPhone and paired Apple Watch.
  • Follow the onscreen instructions to scan the front and back of your driver license or state-issued ID. Use a well-lit area and a simple dark background.  Confirm whether the information on your ID has been captured clearly.

For more information about adding your driver’s license or state ID card to Apple Wallet, visit Add your driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet.

After your request has been approved, you will see your California driver’s license or state ID in the Apple Wallet app.

  • You need an iPhone XS or newer.
  • You need to download and install the latest version of iOS and try again.
  • If you still don’t see the option to add your California ID to Apple Wallet on iPhone or Apple Watch, contact (800) APL–CARE or (800–275-2273)​.

The setup process involves capturing a photo of the front and back of your physical card. If you don’t have one, you can request a duplicate card through the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Yes, you can add your driver’s license or state ID on two iPhones and two paired Apple Watches at a time.

This process generally takes a relatively short period of time. If the California DMV needs to gather more information, you will receive a notification with next steps. In these cases it may take a little longer.

You might see this notification if the California DMV needs additional information. Once you receive this notification, you will be prompted to navigate to the California DMV website and take additional steps to add your ID to your iPhone and Apple Watch.

In certain cases you will be prompted to download and use the California DMV Wallet App in order to complete the process of adding your ID in Apple Wallet.

Try to submit the request again. When performing the facial and head movements, please make sure you are in a brightly lit room with an even background. For more information, visit Add your driver’s license or state ID to Apple Wallet.

If you are physically unable to complete the gestures required to enroll in ID in Apple Wallet, please contact Apple for additional assistance in completing your enrollment. Contact (800) APL–CARE or (800–275-2273).

No. ID in Apple Wallet is voluntary and serves as a companion to your physical, plastic driver’s license/identification card – it is not a replacement of the physical card, and you must continue to carry your physical driver license or state ID with you.

You can present your ID in Apple Wallet in person at select TSA checkpoints, and at businesses and organizations with standards compliant mobile ID readers. You can also present your ID in select apps that require identity or age verification.

At this time ID in Apple Wallet is only accepted at select airport security checkpoints around the country including San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as determined by the TSA. Please visit the TSA website for the most up-to-date support for ID in Apple Wallet.

California residents can present their ID in Apple Wallet at participating TSA airport security checkpoints by simply tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch at the identity reader. Upon tapping their iPhone or Apple Watch, customers will see a prompt on their device displaying which specific information is being requested by the TSA. Only after authorizing with Face ID or Touch ID is the requested identity information released from their device.

For additional verification, the reader will then take your picture. Information is shared digitally, so residents do not need to show or hand over their device to present their ID.

Information is all shared digitally, so you do not need to show or hand over your iPhone or Apple Watch to present your ID.

  1. Hold the top of your unlocked iPhone or hold the display of your Apple Watch near the identity reader.
  2. Your device screen displays the information that will be shared.
  3. Double-click the side button to present your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
  4. Authenticate with the Face ID or Touch ID associated with your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
  5. A check mark appears when you successfully present your driver’s license or state-issued ID.

To watch the video: How to present your ID on iPhone and Apple Watch, visit https://learn.wallet.apple/id.

  1. In an app or app clip, tap the Verify with Apple Wallet or Continue with Apple Wallet button.
  2. Review what information will be shared and other details:
    • The information from your license or ID that the app is requesting.
    • The information that the app will store, and how long the app plans to store that information.
    • The reason that the app is requesting this information.
  3. Share the requested information:
    • iPhone with Face ID: Double-click the side button, then authenticate. 
    • iPhone with Touch ID: Hold your finger on the Home button to authenticate.

Driver’s licenses and state IDs which are stored directly in Apple Wallet on iPhone provide an easy, private, and secure way for California residents to present their state ID at select Transportation Security Administration (TSA) airport security checkpoints and other participating locations.

ID in Apple Wallet takes full advantage of the privacy and security built into iPhone and Apple Watch and also offers increased security and privacy benefits a physical ID card can’t match. Unlike physical ID cards, state IDs and driver licenses in Wallet present only the information needed for the interaction, and the user has the opportunity to review and authorize the information being requested before it is shared. Additionally, IDs in Apple Wallet are presented digitally through encrypted communication directly between the device and the identity reader, so users do not need to show or hand over their device. Biometric authentication using Face ID and Touch ID also helps ensure that only the person who added the ID to the device can view or present their ID or license in Wallet. ​

For more information visit IDs in Apple Wallet: privacy and security overview.

You can present your California driver’s license or state ID in Apple Wallet in person at businesses and organizations with compliant ID readers. You can also present your ID in select apps that require identity or age verification.

ID in Apple Wallet is also accepted at select airport checkpoints around the country, determined by TSA. Please visit TSA.gov for the most up to date support for State ID on iPhone and Apple Watch.

Your California driver’s license or state ID in Apple Wallet is a companion to your physical, plastic driver license or ID card, which you should continue to carry.

There is no cost associated with adding or using your California driver’s license or state ID to iPhone and Apple Watch.

No, neither California nor Apple can see when or where you present your ID in Apple Wallet. Information about usage — including where, when, and what personal information you share — is encrypted and stored only on your device.

For more information, visit IDs in Apple Wallet: privacy and security overview.

If you wish to remove your California driver’s license or state ID from your iPhone or Apple Watch, you may delete it directly from your Apple device. In the Apple Wallet app, select your driver’s license or state ID.

  1. Tap the More button.
  2. Scroll down, tap Remove This Driver’s License or Remove This State ID, and confirm.

To remove your driver’s license or state-issued ID from your Apple Watch, use the Apple Watch app on your iPhone:

  1. In the My Watch tab, scroll down and tap Wallet & Apple Pay.
  2. Select your driver’s license or state ID and tap Remove This Driver’s License.

If you unpair your Apple Watch from your iPhone, you automatically remove your driver’s license or ID from your Apple Watch.

You can find more information on removing your California ID from your iPhone and Apple Watch here: Remove your driver’s license or state ID from Apple Wallet.

You will need to remove your driver’s license or state ID from your Apple Wallet on your old iPhone if you want to associate your driver’s license or ID with a different Apple ID, or add your driver’s license or ID to a new iPhone or Apple Watch. You can then complete the setup process on your new iPhone.​

From another Apple device, the Find My App or a web browser logged into iCloud.com, you can remotely lock or erase your device.

ID in Apple Wallet is voluntary. If you are not interested in adding your California driver’s license or state ID to iPhone and Apple Watch, there is nothing you need to do.

The California DMV may provide Apple with information on the status of the driver’s license authorization (for example, under review or accepted) so that Apple can send updates to your device and help manage your driver’s license or state ID in Apple Wallet. The California DMV does not control the privacy and security of your information that may be held by Apple which is governed by the privacy policy given to you by Apple. For additional information, visit IDs in Apple Wallet: privacy and security overview.

For additional information on the California DMV’s privacy practices, please review the “Privacy Statement” on our website at How Information is Protected Or Disclosed.

DMV’s mDL Terms and Conditions can be found at California DMV Mobile Driver’s License Software Terms Of Use.

mDL in Google Wallet

To get an mDL on your Android device, start with the Google Wallet app and your physical CA DL/ID card:

  1. ​Open the Google Wallet app or download it on Google Play,
  2. Tap ”Add to Wallet”,
  3. Tap “ID Card” then tap “Get Started” and choose your state,
  4. Follow the instructions to verify your DL/ID card with CA DMV.

Visit the Google Help Center to learn more.

Make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements listed in the Google Wallet Help Center.

For assistance with scanning the barcode, please follow the tips provided on the Google Wallet Help Center.

No, you are not required to have a REAL ID compliant DL/ID card to add your CA DL/ID card to Google Wallet.

Information is all shared digitally, so you do not need to show or hand over your device to present your CA DL/ID card in Google Wallet.

Present with NFC:

  1. ​Ensure that NFC and Bluetooth are enabled on your electronic device.
  2. Unlock and hold the top of your device near the identity reader.
  3. Your electronic device screen displays the information that will be shared.
  4. Authenticate to verify it’s you.
  5. A check mark appears when you successfully present your mDL.

Present with QR:

  1. Ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on your electronic device.
  2. Open up Google Wallet and select your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
  3. Click “View Code” to bring up the QR code.
  4. Scan the code on the identity reader.
  5. Your electronic device screen displays the information that will be shared.
  6. Authenticate to verify it’s you.
  7. A check mark appears when you successfully present your mDL.

For more information click here​.

Please visit the Google Wallet Help Center​.

Please note: The mDL is only available to individuals that have a current, valid California-issued DL/ID card.

If you wish to remove your mDL in Google Wallet from your electronic device, you may delete directly from the Google Wallet app or remotely from your Google Account.

To remove your CA mDL In the Google Wallet app:

  1. Select your driver’s license or state-issued ID.
  2. ​Tap the three dots in the top right corner.
  3. Tap “Remove” and confirm.

To remove your mDL from your Android device and the Google Wallet remotely:

  1. ​Visit myaccount.google.com in the Personal Info tab,
  2. Scroll down to “Digital ID”, which shows which credentials are on your Android devices.
  3. Click “Manage digital ID”.
  4. The page will show that there is an mDL added to your Google Wallet. However, your personal information will NOT be displayed and is NOT visible to Google.
  5. Click on the trash bin icon to remotely delete the credential from your electronic device. You will be shown a screen asking you to confirm that your mDL will be deleted from your electronic device and can be added again in the Google Wallet app.
  6. After confirmation, your mDL will be deleted from your electronic device and Google Account.

If you previously removed your mDL from your electronic device, but would like it back, open the Google Wallet app and begin a new mDL request.

There is currently no electronic transfer option for the mDL. You must submit a new mDL request and have the request approved by the CA DMV with every new electronic device.

From another Android device or a web browser logged into Google.com, you may visit myaccount.google.com to delete your mDL remotely.

Yes, you should always carry the mobile or physical copy of the boarding pass with your mDL in Google Wallet. For additional verification, a TSA​ agent can ask to see your mobile or physical boarding pass. In some instances, customers may still need to undergo enhanced screening, even if you have an mDL

If you are physically unable to complete the gestures required to enroll in mDL, please contact us​ for additional assistance in completing your enrollment.​

mDL in CA DMV Wallet

The CA DMV Wallet is a smartphone app that contains your mobile driver’s license or ID (mDL), Truage tokens, digital credentials to login to DMV online and coming soon, your vehicle registration, insurance, ownership information; occupational license ID, disabled placard ID and other DMV digital credentials. 

Open the CA DMV Wallet App. On the “Home” tab, click on the button that says, “Share my mDL”.

Your mDL is stored in the CA DMV Wallet app (available at the Apple App Store or Google Play).

This feature is an alternate and secure way to verify your age at participating convenience and retail stores across the US. 

A Liveness Scan utilizes a unique controlled illumination that cannot be replicated to capture your face scan.  A sequence of lights is projected onto your face during the image capture to confirm you are a real person.  This technology conforms to W3C standards for safe flash rates for people with photosensitivity epilepsy. 

To join online, follow the How to Enroll instructions or watch the video guide.

For in-person enrollment, create a MyDMV account, download CA DMV Wallet, and visit a DMV office.

When it’s your turn, open your CA DMV Wallet and click on “Show my DL/ID.” A QR code will appear, scan this code as instructed by the security officer. Press “Accept” on your screen to share your information.

You have two options to delete your mDL:

  • Delete the mDL from CA DMV Wallet:
  • Tap the “Wallet” icon to bring up your mDL.
M D L banner with icons for home, wallet, activity log, and profile. Activity log is on the center-left of the bar and is highlighted in a box.
  • Tap on the blue tile with your picture.
  • Then tap the “Trash Can” icon on the bottom left.

Or

Delete CA DMV Wallet from your current smartphone.

Please try again later. If problem continues, ask for help online.

Your device must run on iOS 14 or newer or Android 7 or newer to be compatible with this app. If your operating system version is supported, confirm that your device has the most updated software version.

  • For Apple users, go to Settings > General > Software Update. The screen shows the currently installed version of iOS and whether an update is available.
  • For Android users, go to Settings > System > Software Update (or System Update) > You’ll find your update status. Follow any steps on the screen.

Please try again later. If problem continues, please provide feedback or ask for help online.

You may have accidently deleted the mDL or uninstalled and reinstalled the CA DMV Wallet App, which will result in the deletion of your existing mDL.  If this occurs, you will be required to go through the enrollment process again.

Your mDL needs to be updated/refreshed every 30 days for the best experience and to receive the most up-to-date information. Tap the “Refresh Driver’s License” button below your photo, then follow the instructions. If the refresh is not completed, you will not be able to use your mDL.

You must delete your mDL from your wallet and go through the enrollment process again. Follow the steps below to delete your mDL.

You have two options to delete your mDL: 1. Delete your mDL from your CA DMV Wallet or 2. Delete the CA DMV Wallet app from your device.

1. Delete the mDL from CA DMV Wallet:

  • In your CA DMV Wallet, tap the “Wallet” icon to bring up your mDL.
screenshot of CA DMV Wallet: wallet icon
  • Tap on the blue tile with your picture.
screenshot of CA DMV Wallet: blue tile with picture
  • Then tap the “Trash Can” icon on the bottom left.
screenshot of CA DMV Wallet: trash can icon

OR

2. Delete CA DMV Wallet app from your electronic device.

NOTE: If you have multiple mDLs displayed on the wallet tab, you must delete all of them. Repeat the above process to do so.

If you receive a notification that your mDL is abandoned, you must complete the mDL provisioning process again to obtain your mDL.  This may have been caused by not opening your CA DMV Wallet App to receive updates.

This means there is a connection error. Please try using the mDL later.

To receive the latest security features and to update your mDL on an Apple device, click on the “Tap here to update” link which will take you to the CA DMV Wallet App within the Apple App Store and select “Update.”

To receive the latest security features and to update your mDL on an Android device, click on the “Tap here to update” link which will take you to the CA DMV Wallet App within the Google Play Store and select “Update.”

You must follow the delete procedures below. You have two options to delete your mDL:

1. Delete the mDL from CA DMV Wallet:

  • Tap the “Wallet” icon to bring up your mDL.
A screenshot of the "Wallet" icon in the CA DMV Wallet app.
  • Tap on the blue tile with your picture.
A screenshot of the blue tile with picture in the CA DMV Wallet app.
  • Then tap the “Trash Can” icon on the bottom left.
A screenshot of the "Trash Can" icon in the CA DMV Wallet app.

OR

2. Delete CA DMV Wallet from your mobile device.

CA DMV Wallet uses your phone’s FaceID, TouchID, or PIN to securely tie your mDL to your device. mDL will only share necessary info, while a physical card will share your name, photo, birthdate, and address all at once.

The DMV Wallet was built to work with the security built-in to your electronic device, like Face ID, fingerprint, pin code, etc. If you do not use a security method to open your electronic device, the DMV Wallet app will ask you to add one and won’t allow you to continue using the app until you do. Any information you enter into your DMV Wallet stays on your electronic device and is encrypted, meaning no one, including the DMV, other state agencies, or the phone manufacturer, can read it without your consent. When you are required to show your mobile driver’s license or ID card (mobile DL/ID), the person viewing it will scan a unique QR code.

CA DMV Wallet does not permanently store your personal data, except for your phone number and an encrypted photo of your DL/ID card. Read our privacy policy for more information.

General Topics on mDL

The mDL is a digital driver’s license or identification card (DL/ID) on your electronic device. DMV is currently testing the mDL at select locations and airports as part of the mDL pilot.

No. As part of the mDL pilot, you still need to have your physical card with you.

No. The mDL is free of cost to the DMV customers under the pilot program.

Yes, mDL is now available in both the Apple and Google Wallets.

mDL in both Apple and Google Wallets are now available.

The Pilot is currently active through June 30, 2026.  For more information visit our website.

The mDL pilot program is limited up to 5% of DMV DL/ID holders. When this limit is reached this message indicates that you will not be able to join until the pilot population is expanded or the program is opened to the public without restrictions on the number of participants to the program.

The mDL Reader is used to verify another’s identity in real time by using another mDL via QR code functionality. It is used by law enforcement agencies and business entities who offer age restricted products, access to age restricted events, and for banks, secure facilities, airlines, rental companies, and government entities. Visit mDL for Business for more information.

CA DMV’s mDL Reader can be used to scan mDL QR codes that are presented by another mDL holder. The person verifying the information will receive confirmation that the mDL holder is over a certain age or in some cases, can view the mDL holder’s personal identifying information. It is up to the mDL holder to share or not to share their information with the party who requests it. Visit mDL for Business for more information.

Privacy, Safety, and Security

No. CA DMV Wallet has built in “liveness detection” to protect you from this type of identity theft. When taking your selfie, you are prompted follow the instructions on your screen to complete this liveness check. This confirms that you are a live person and not a photograph.

For assistance with your MyDMV account, ask for help online.

The Issuing Authority Certificate Authority (IACA) certificate is the root of trust used to verify that an identity document was created by a valid issuer, such as the CA Department of Motor Vehicles.

Setup and Use

How to Set Up a Mobile Driver’s License

No, you must choose between either your DL or ID card for an mDL.

All valid California DL/ID cards may be used for mDL.

  • Commercial Learner’s Permit
  • Instruction Permit (Learner’s Permit)
  • Salesperson License
  • Temporary Driver’s License

Once the front and back of your DL/ID card is scanned, and a selfie is taken DMV verifies your identity by verifying your data and photo against the DMV records.

It may take up to three business days to process your mDL. Please be on the lookout for notifications on your mobile device and the email associated with your DMV online account.

If you have a valid (Not expired or suspended) Driver’s License or ID Card, you can apply for mDL again and follow the helpful tips below on card scanning and selfie/liveness/video capture. If you are using other wallets to request an mDL and get rejected, you may request an mDL through the official CA DMV Wallet to get better chance of success. Below are some tips to help with a successful mDL enrollment:

Helpful tips for card scanning:

  • Make sure there is no wear or damage on either side of your DL/ID card. If the card is damaged, you will need to request a replacement before enrolling.
  • Ensure your DL/ID card is placed on a dark flat surface with good lighting when taking the photo.

Helpful tips for Liveness/Video check:

  • Keep your phone steady at eye level.
  • No headwear
  • Use plain background
  • Use indoor with consistent and ample lighting on the face
  • No other faces in the frame
  • No camera effects
  • No low power or greyscale mode
  • If you are wearing sunglasses, take them off
How to Use a Mobile Driver’s License

This depends on the state. Keep your physical DL/ID with you.

No. Law requires you show your physical DL/ID to law enforcement.

Some locations accept mDL, but others may not be aware of the program. DMV recommends keeping your physical DL/ID with you.

No, If the CA DMV Wallet automatically installs on your new electronic device, you will need to delete the CA DMV Wallet from your electronic device and then Download and install the CA DMV Wallet app from the App store to re-enroll.

The mDL was designed as a secure platform for you to personal identifying information the reader will display your address/class/endorsements/rescrictions/REAL ID/Federal Limits Apply/Veteran/Organ Donor status.

Please review our Technical Support – California DMV link

Your mDL utilizes the photo displayed on your most recent DL/ID card.

mDL in Apple and Google Wallets:

  • mDL in Apple and Google Wallets can be used for identity verification at select airports. Additional uses forthcoming.

Only available via CA DMV Wallet:

  • Your mDL in the CA DMV Wallet can be used for age and identity verification at select locations and airports as well as to log into your MyDMV account or apply for a CA Disabled Person Parking Placard. You can also use the mDL Reader in the CA DMV Wallet to verify another mDL holder’s identity in real time.

Your mDL needs to be updated every 30 days to get the best experience. You might be asked to refresh your mDL more often to receive the most up-to-date information.

You will not be able to use your mDL until the refresh is completed.

Troubleshooting during setup

For assistance with your MyDMV account, ask for help online.

Make sure there is no wear or damage on either side of your DL/ID. If the card is damaged, you will need to request a replacement before enrolling. Ensure your DL/ID card is placed on a dark flat surface with good lighting when taking its photo.

Make sure there is no wear or damage on either side of your DL/ID. If the card is damaged, you will need to request a replacement before enrolling.

When taking the photo, ensure you have placed your DL/ID card on a dark, flat surface with good lighting – but position the card to avoid any glare. All four corners of the card must show, and nothing can cover it, including your fingers. Avoid holding the card.

Your selfie did not match the photo on file with DMV. If your appearance is drastically different from your DL, you may need to update your photo at a DMV office before you enroll in mDL.

This could be the result of a poor selfie or selfie capture issue.

Tips that will help with taking a selfie:

  • If you wear glasses, take them off before taking the selfie.
  • Take the selfie in a well-lit area, in front of a neutral or plain backdrop such as a single-color wall.
  • Hold the phone approximately 16 inches from your face (just below arm’s length).
  • Keep your phone steady at eye level.

Double check your information was entered correctly and try again. If you have updated your details recently – like changing your name or address – you will need to update your DMV record first.

It is possible the text size or zoom settings on your electronic device may need to be adjusted to display the screens correctly. If you are not able to view the entire screen and it looks like there is additional text further down on the screen, go to your electronic devices settings and adjust the text size and/or display zoom to the default setting.

Start the liveness check process over again and follow these tips to help you succeed with your liveness check:

  • No headwear, except glasses are ok
  • Use plain background
  • Use indoors with consistent and ample lighting on the face
  • No other faces in the frame
  • No camera effects
  • No low power or greyscale mode
Troubleshooting other issues
Lost, expired, and suspended DMV card

A replacement card will be required to enroll in mDL. If you are already enrolled, your mDL will remain on your electronic device and you can continue to use it, however, you must still apply for a replacement DL/ID and continue to carry your physical DL/ID card.

Your mDL will remain on your electronic device and you can continue to use it. Apply for a replacement DL/ID.

An unexpired physical card is required. If your card is expired, renew it online and then enroll in mDL once you receive your new card.

Renew your DL/ID. When you receive your new card, re-enroll in mDL.

Apply for a California ID card. Once you receive the physical card, enroll in mDL.

Apply for a California ID card. Once you receive the physical card, re-enroll in mDL.

Yes, changes to your driver’s license record will be updated to your mDL.  You will receive a notification asking you to refresh your mDL.  Follow the prompts to update your mDL.

Other Ways to Get Help

Some DMV offices can help you with mDL in person. Please see the map below. Not all offices currently support mDL.