The PA House of Representatives recently passed two bills, with overwhelming bipartisan support, to allow for digital driver’s licenses, ID cards, and vehicle registrations. 

“Over 90 percent of people have smartphones now, and with programs such as Apple Wallet and Google Pay, more Pennsylvanians want the convenient and secure option of a digital ID and digital registration card on their smartphone,” said State Representative Ed Neilson. 

House Bill 2210 passed on Monday by a vote of 197–3. Authored by State Representative Manuel Guzman, the bill would allow for digital vehicle registration cards, since PennDOT no longer mails renewed registration cards, and fewer households have printers. 

“In 2013, Pennsylvania allowed drivers to carry digital insurance cards — this bill extends that same commonsense convenience to registration cards,” Guzman said. “I look forward to seeing this bill cross the finish line. This is a practical, commonsense measure that will make life easier for Pennsylvania drivers across the Commonwealth.” 

On Tuesday, House Bill 1970, which would give Pennsylvanians the option to obtain a digital driver’s license or ID card, passed by a vote of 186–15. 

According to the bill, authored by Neilson, a digital ID would be optional, and individuals who choose to get one would still be issued a physical copy of their license or ID. A physical license would still be required during traffic stops. 

Both bills are now headed to the state Senate for consideration. 

Learn more about the bills that would allow for for digital driver’s licenses and vehicle registrations at the PA General Assembly.

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