RICHMOND, Va. — As Virginians prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) marked a milestone for Virginia Mobile ID as newly appointed Commissioner Saundra M. Jack completed the ceremonial 250,000th download. Since March, downloads have more than doubled, reflecting the growing number of Virginians who use the digital credential to carry their valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card and trust it as a secure form of identification.
“I’m incredibly proud to mark this milestone as Virginia Mobile ID reaches 250,000 downloads in a year when Virginians are preparing to celebrate America’s semiquincentennial,” said Jack. “During my previous time at DMV, Virginia Mobile ID was just a seedling of an idea, and today it reflects our commitment to always driving forward with innovative technology that improves the lives of Virginians.”
Virginia Mobile ID is a free app that lets Virginians carry a secure digital version of their driver's license or ID card on their smartphone. Users can verify their identity by tapping their phone or scanning a QR code while keeping their device in hand. The digital credential is accepted at more than 350 Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints nationwide, Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Authority pilot stores, all DMV customer service centers statewide, with the Virginia State Police and select local law enforcement agencies. Virginia DMV is working with dozens of restaurants, breweries, wineries and entertainment venues to increase the acceptance of digital IDs across the commonwealth.
“The Virginia Mobile ID has seen strong growth in recent months, as more Virginians embrace it as a secure and convenient form of identification,” said Virginia Secretary of Transportation Nick M. Donohue. “We are also encouraged to see more businesses beginning to recognize its value and accept it. The DMV remains focused on making innovations like this seamless, fast, and secure.”
As a proud VA250 commemorative partner, Virginia DMV welcomed the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience to its headquarters to mark two 250 milestones: the nation's upcoming semiquincentennial and Virginia Mobile ID's 250,000th download. The traveling exhibit brings Virginia's history to life through immersive displays and stories that highlight the people, places, and events that shaped the Commonwealth and the nation.
“In the lead-up to the 250th anniversary and beyond, the commonwealth is celebrating across the state, all building toward a historic Independence Day celebration in Colonial Williamsburg on July 4, 2026,” said VA250 National Honorary Chair Carly Fiorina. “America’s story began in Virginia. From the ideals debated in our historic towns to the milestones that shaped a new nation, Virginia is where independence took root. We’re proud of Virginia DMV for meeting its own 250 milestone and for the impact of its innovations for years to come."
Customers can easily set up Virginia Mobile ID by downloading the free app from the App Store or Google Play, scanning their physical driver’s license or ID card, and completing a quick facial verification. Once these steps are finished, their mobile ID is ready to use. While the digital credential provides a convenient way to carry a driver’s license or ID on a smartphone, customers must continue to carry their physical card as a backup, especially when driving. Digital wallet options will be coming soon.
For more information about the Virginia Mobile ID app, benefits, participating locations, security features and frequently asked questions, visit Virginia DMV’s website.