Illinois is modernizing the way residents carry their driver’s licenses. Beginning today, the Illinois Secretary of State is rolling out digital driver’s licenses, a secure, app-based version of your physical license that can be stored on your smartphone.

At The Davis Law Group, P.C., where we represent thousands of drivers each year in matters involving driver’s license reinstatement, suspensions, traffic violations, DUIs, and CDL issues, we’ve been following this development closely. Below is a breakdown of what the new digital license means for Illinois drivers, how it works, and how your privacy is protected.

What is a Digital Driver’s License?

A digital driver’s license (DDL) is an electronic version of your regular Illinois driver’s license or state ID. Instead of carrying only a plastic card, you will have the option to store your license securely on your smartphone through a state-approved mobile app, such as your Apple wallet.

This digital credential contains the same identifying information as the physical card but uses advanced encryption and security features to prevent fraud, tampering, or unauthorized access.

Digital licenses are optional, and Illinois will continue to issue physical cards.

How Illinois’ Digital License System Works

Illinois’ program follows national security standards developed by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA).

Key Features:

• Secure Mobile App: Your DDL is stored in a protected app with multi-factor authentication.
  
• Selective Data Sharing: You can share only the necessary information for a specific situation.
  Example: Proving you’re 21 at a bar without showing your address.
  
• Real-Time Verification: Police officers and businesses can confirm license validity quickly through encrypted QR codes or digital scans.
  
• Automatic Updates: If your license status changes (renewals, suspensions, reinstatements, address changes), your digital license updates instantly.

Will You Still Need Your Physical License?

Yes, for now.

Illinois is treating the digital license as a convenience tool, not a replacement. You should still carry your traditional license until the state announces otherwise.

Digital licenses will be accepted at:

• Traffic stops (as technology is implemented)
  
• Airports (TSA is moving toward digital acceptance)
  
• Age-verification locations
  
• Government buildings
  
• Businesses that opt in

Privacy & Security Concerns: What Illinois Drivers Should Know

Clients at our firm, especially those dealing with license issues, reinstatements, or CDL matters, often raise legitimate privacy concerns about digital IDs. Here’s what you should know:

1. Can police access other information on my phone?

No.

During a traffic stop, presenting a digital license does not give an officer access to your phone, its contents, or any apps. The verification process occurs through:

• A scannable code
  
• A secure “device-to-reader” connection
  
• A temporary digital token

Your phone never has to leave your hand unless you voluntarily hand it over (which we do not recommend).

2. Is my personal data stored on a government server?

Your data is stored the same way it is for physical licenses. The digital license itself is stored locally on your device, protected by:

• End-to-end encryption
  
• Biometric authentication (Face ID / fingerprint)
  
• Randomized digital identifiers

Illinois does not gain new personal data because you opt in.

3. What happens if my phone is lost or stolen?

Your digital license remains secure.

Because the DDL is stored in an encrypted app, someone who finds your phone cannot access your license without passing your lock screen and app authentication. You can also:

• Remotely lock your phone
  
• Remotely wipe data
  
• Reinstall the app on a new device

Your physical license remains valid even if your phone is lost.

4. Will businesses track my activity?

No.

The app uses one-time cryptographic tokens, not persistent tracking.
Businesses cannot track:

• Your location
  
• Your phone’s ID
  
• Past scans or transactions

Verification is a one-time, non-traceable exchange.

5. Can the digital license show my driving record or tickets?

No.

Just like a physical card, your digital license displays identity information only. Your driving history, including moving violations, suspensions, DUIs, or SR-22 requirements, is never displayed through the digital app.

How This Affects DUI, Suspensions & License Reinstatement Cases

For our clients dealing with license suspensions, revocations, RDP permits, or DUI restrictions, here’s what to expect:

• If your license becomes suspended, your digital license will instantly show “invalid”.
  
• For those seeking Restricted Driving Permits (RDP), the digital license may eventually display the restricted status, but Illinois has not finalized how this will appear.
  
• You will still need to meet all Illinois Secretary of State hearing requirements, digital licenses do not change reinstatement procedures.

The Bottom Line

Illinois’ move toward digital driver’s licenses is a major step forward in convenience and security. While privacy concerns are understandable, the system is designed with strong protections that limit data sharing and prevent unauthorized access.

Digital licenses are optional, and your physical license remains valid. Over the next several years, Illinois drivers can expect broader acceptance and more features as the technology matures.

At The Davis Law Group, P.C., our attorneys help drivers navigate the complexities of license suspensions and revocations. We’re here to help Illinois drivers protect their freedom to drive. Feel free to contact us today for a free consultation.