The move toward a digital license is something that all states in the United States have been working on for more than 20 years. In the case of the state of Georgia, the Real ID identification has begun to be implemented, so if you are a resident of this state, you must make sure it is updated. As indicated by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), it is essential that driver’s licenses and identification documents are secure.
Furthermore, progress has not only been made in implementing the Real ID, but the goal is to continue advancing toward digital identifications and driver’s licenses. That is why the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) encourages drivers to add the digital driver’s license to their phones, although it is still mandatory to carry the physical license as well. Other states have decided to join this initiative, such as New Jersey, where its Governor Phil Murphy has spoken about the need to improve the everyday lives of the people through this type of measure.
Real ID
After the September 11, 2001 attacks, the United States Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005, with the intention of establishing higher security standards for driver’s licenses and state identification cards. The idea was to strengthen security for access to certain federal buildings and for domestic air travel. Although proposed more than 20 years ago, factors such as state opposition, technological updates, and the COVID-19 pandemic have slowed its implementation. It finally went into effect on May 7, 2025, and U.S. citizens as well as foreigners with legal presence in the country can obtain it. Real ID cards are characterized by having a gold or black star at the top, which helps to identify them.
Georgia Launches Real ID Identification
According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website, “The security of driver’s licenses and identification documents is a vital component of our national security framework.” And this is precisely what all states aim to achieve. Since its implementation on May 7 of this year, 2025, the Real ID regulations have been taking shape in different states. In the case of Georgia, it is only now that its launch has been announced, so if you are a resident of this state, you should make sure to have your license updated in case you want to access federal buildings or take domestic flights.
Digital driver’s licenses
In addition to the implementation of the Real ID, driver’s licenses are also undergoing changes, such as the arrival of digital driver’s licenses. Although it is not yet final in any state, a total of 16 states have already implemented a program or are in the process of doing so. In the case of Georgia, more than 500,000 residents have added the digital license to their mobile phone wallet, as recommended by Angelique B. McClendon, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS):
“Adding a digital driver’s license to your smartphone wallet enhances convenience, security, and privacy, while also preparing you for a more digital and efficient future. It is a smart move for anyone looking to streamline everyday interactions and keep their license or ID safer and more accessible”. Although digital licenses are accepted at some TSA airport facilities in Georgia, it is important to remember that it is still mandatory to always carry the physical license.
Other states join in
The state of New Jersey expects the digital license program to become operational in July 2029, after signing the new law in July of this year, 2025. According to its Governor, Phil Murphy, “Innovation has always been at the heart of who we are as a state, and my administration has embraced that spirit to provide practical solutions that improve the everyday lives of our people.” These measures regarding digital licenses and the use of the Real ID as an identification measure are tools intended to strengthen security through measures such as encrypted and biometric verification, with the aim of reducing the likelihood of fraud cases and increasing state security.