For a while now, Google has been working to turn its payment service into the ultimate “ID hub.” The company wants to make it easier for you to have digital versions of all your personal identification documents. Google has also been working with authorities to add official support for state ID cards. The latest development in this initiative brings support for New Mexico state IDs in the Google Wallet app for Android.
New Mexico is the sixth US state with official ID support in Google Wallet
The process for adding New Mexico state IDs to Google Wallet is the same as always. Users must tap the app’s toolbar > tap on “Add to Wallet” > tap on “ID” > select “New Mexico.” The process requires scanning the physical ID with rear and front pictures. Users must also record a short video of their faces. The data will go directly to the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division.
Once the review is complete, users will receive an app notification that the digital state ID card was successfully created. They will also get a confirmation email as an additional notice.
It’s noteworthy that even if it’s a state-approved digital ID, Google Wallet warns that it “does not replace the requirement for individuals to carry a physical card.” So, you’ll still need to carry it with you. However, you won’t have to take the ID card out of your wallet at locations like some airports.
Google says it’s working to increase the list of airports and locations that accept Wallet’s state IDs. Plus, the digital document could save you from occasional problems if you forget or lose the physical document.
Google wants you to have digital versions of all your ID documents
For some years now, Google and state governments have been working together to facilitate official support for ID cards in the Mountain View giant’s payment platform. It’s not an easy task, as there’s a lot of paperwork and bureaucracy involved. Before New Mexico, Google had managed to support state ID cards from Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, and Maryland in Wallet.
States that don’t yet have official ID support can turn to the “Everything Else” option to digitize their documents. However, they won’t have the same value as IDs with government approval.