Photo credit: Mississippi Department of Public Safety
MIssissippians can carry their identification card on their phone, thanks to an app.
Since 2021, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) has offered smartphone users the opportunity to have a mobile version of their driver’s license identification on their devices. Called the Mississippi Mobile ID, the app is available in the Apple App Store and in Google Play for Android users. More than 20 states currently use the Mobile ID program.
DPS says it’s a safe, secure and effective way to carry your driver’s license. Users can pull the phone out and with the Mobile ID, verify your identity in renting a car, as proof of age. It is usable to even present at the polls on Election Day to prove your identity.
Many law enforcement officers will accept the Mobile ID app at a traffic stop or check point. However, there are some retail locations that still request the physical ID card instead of the mobile version.
DPS said Mississippi Mobile ID keeps user data secure and assures the privacy of personal information by only storing information with the state system of record and on the user’s device.
Mississippi Mobile ID becomes a contactless method of verifying a person’s identity. Mobile ID also allows the DPS to push updates to information such as an address change or status update, so verifiers can be confident the identity they are accepting is authentic and up-to-date.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates and high school football play-by-play on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
