Indiana lawmakers weigh move toward digital driver's licenses

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Reaching for a driver’s license could someday mean unlocking a phone instead of opening a wallet if Indiana moves forward with digital IDs.

According to reporting from FOX59, the proposal is expected to be studied in the coming months as lawmakers weigh convenience against privacy and cybersecurity concerns.

While Indiana has had the authority to issue digital driver’s licenses since 2021, the state has not announced a timeline for implementation.

Some Hoosiers told FOX59 they support the idea, saying digital IDs could be easier to access and harder to lose.

"I think it could be helpful because a lot of people lose a lot of different things, as far as your purse, as far as people breaking into your car — people steal things from you," said Indianapolis resident Whitney Shockley.

Others expressed concerns about fraud and whether artificial intelligence could make it easier to fake identification.

"There’s a lot of AI going around now, so, by you having AI, just imagine if somebody is able to deepfake that, then what happens?" Indianapolis resident Sparkle Johnson said.

Doug Kouns, a former FBI agent and CEO of Veracity IIR, said strong security protections would be critical if the state moves forward.

"AI has really changed the game on many fronts, especially in the fraud world," Kouns told FOX59. "You have to make sure you have the proper security measures, the encryption and all those things in place before you roll that out."

State Rep. Jim Pressel said lawmakers are expected to review technology and safety protocols during the legislative session, with a pilot program possible as early as next year.

Pressel said digital licenses would be optional.

"If you want to have the physical copy, absolutely it should be available for you," Pressel said.

In a statement, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles said it is exploring mobile driver’s licenses but wants to ensure any system is "secure, reliable, and complies with Indiana law," adding implementation will require "careful planning to address the program’s impact."