MACON, Ga. — A new Georgia law taking effect next month will allow drivers to use a digital ID on their phones during traffic stops, offering a modern alternative to the traditional plastic license.

House Bill 296, co-sponsored by Rep. Shaw Blackmon of Bonaire, was inspired by a constituent’s experience. 

“This gentleman was actually pulled over and he had a digital ID. He offered it up to the law enforcement officer and, and he said, ‘I’m sorry, I have to have a physical ID, which is what the law stated,’” Blackmon said.

Starting July 1, drivers will be able to present a digital ID stored on their smartphones when asked for identification by law enforcement. The change aligns road requirements with several airport TSA checkpoints, which already accept digital IDs. Blackmon said the update gives drivers more flexibility.

“It’s kind of common sense that if you’re gonna allow people to obtain a digital ID, that we let them use that as an official ID where it makes good sense to do so,” Blackmon said.

However, physical IDs are still required for certain activities, including voting and obtaining boating and hunting licenses. Law enforcement agencies will also need time to adapt; officers must have equipment to scan digital IDs by July 2027.

“You’re trying to prove who you are, and I think the database is gonna be up to date,” Blackmon said. “A lot of times we’re allowed to get a printed ID that’s several years behind, so you’re gonna have something that’s a little more up to date.”

The bill also includes a provision for rental vehicle companies, particularly those with custom-built vehicles. Instead of paying the title tax in full upfront, these companies can now split the payment. 

“They’re able to pay it off in two separate payments. So you pay 50% up front and then you’re able to go back and get 50% within a year,” Blackmon said.

While the digital option is on its way, officials recommend drivers continue carrying their physical licenses for now, just in case.

For Apple iPhones (Apple Wallet):

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.

2. Tap the “+” icon in the top-right corner.

3. Select “Driver’s License or State ID”.

4. Choose Georgia as your issuing state.

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the front and back of your physical Georgia driver’s license or ID.

6. Complete the face or fingerprint scan (Face ID or Touch ID) to verify your identity.

7. Submit your request and wait for the Georgia Department of Driver Services to verify your information.

8. Once verified, your digital driver’s license or ID will be added to your Apple Wallet.

For Samsung Phones (Samsung Wallet)

1. Open the Samsung Wallet app on your Samsung Galaxy device.

2. Tap the “+” button or “Add” option.

3. Select “Digital IDs” from the list.

4. Choose “Driver’s License/State ID” and select Georgia as your state.

5. Follow the on-screen prompts to scan the front and back of your physical Georgia driver’s license or ID card.

6. Complete the face scan for identity verification to confirm you are the rightful owner.

7. Submit your information and authenticate using your fingerprint or PIN.

8. Your digital ID will be sent to the Georgia Department of Driver Services for verification. Once approved, it will be added to your Samsung Wallet.