Mobile Driver's License: Use Cases in Online Applications

A Mobile Driver's License (mDL) is a digital version of a traditional driver's license or an ID that can be stored in a mobile device wallet. It can exist as a specific app dedicated to the respective document type or as part of a wallet app used for payments, tickets, certificates, and more. Common examples of such apps include Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Wallet. mDL technology, based on the ISO 18013 standard, is increasingly popular as a secure and convenient method for verifying identity in both online and in-person scenarios. In this blog post, we will explore some of the use cases of mDL within the context of online applications.

As of today, there are various methods available for verifying a person's identity without physical presence. The most common approach involves biometric verification, supplemented by a comparison with a photo of the individual's ID card. Optionally, various analytical techniques can be employed to enhance reliability and confirm that the person is indeed who they claim to be. With the adoption of the ISO 18013-5 standard¹ and the highly anticipated ISO 18013-7 standard², Digital IDs and mDL technology are poised to achieve global interoperability. These advancements are expected to play a significant and universal role in identity verification and digital identity management.

mDL is widely regarded as a more secure verification method compared to other alternatives, as it involves the presentation of an official government-issued ID to service providers rather than relying on estimations that other methods provide. Simultaneously, it offers a smoother experience for end-users, with the verification process being as straightforward as using a smartphone wallet for payment. In scenarios where heightened security is essential due to increased fraud risks, mDL verification can be combined with additional methods.

Use Cases in Online Applications

Online Banking: mDL can be used to verify a client's identity when opening a bank account, applying for a loan online or just logging into a bank's mobile app. This eliminates the need for customers to visit a physical branch and provides a more secure and streamlined process.

Mobility / Car sharing: Car sharing is a great use case for mDL technology, because it allows identity to be verified in just a couple of seconds and on the go. Video example: youtube.com/carsshare

E-Commerce: mDLs can be used to verify identity when making purchases online. This can help prevent fraud and provide a more seamless checkout experience for customers. Video example: youtube.com/wineshop

Travel: mDL can be used to verify identity when booking flights or hotels online. This can help reduce the time and hassle of traditional identity verification processes at airports and hotels.

Government Services: mDL can be used to access government services online, such as applying for a passport or renewing a driver's license. This can help reduce wait times and provide a more secure and efficient process.

Online gaming: Gaming industry is known to be sensitive from various angles. mDL verification brings in trust for all stakeholders of the industry as well as streamlines the onboarding process for customers.

In conclusion, mobile Driver's License have a wide range of use cases in both online and in-person applications. They provide a secure and convenient way to verify identity, reduce wait times, and streamline processes. As mDL technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more use cases in the future.

Book a call with Sehaci to learn more, how your business can benefit from mDL technology and integrate it in your identity verification processes.

¹ ISO/IEC 18013-5:2021 Personal identification, ISO-compliant driving licence, Part 5: Mobile driving licence (mDL) application

² ISO/IEC CD TS 18013-7, Personal identification, ISO-compliant driving licence, Part 7: Mobile driving licence (mDL) add-on functions