The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Shut Down the Florida Smart ID App

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) recently made the decision to shut down its digital ID app, Florida Smart ID, for both iPhones and Android phones. This move came as a surprise to many users who had been utilizing the app for contact-free verification of their age or identity in various situations.

The department sent out emails to users instructing them to delete the app, citing the need to find a new vendor to revitalize the service by “early 2025.” Despite promoting the Smart ID app as a convenient and secure way to prove identity, the low usage rates ultimately led to its demise. A report by the South Florida Sun-Sentinel revealed that out of over 17 million licensed drivers in Florida, only 95,000 users had activated the app. Additionally, many police departments did not utilize the app, further diminishing its value.

The FLHSMV stated on their website that the Florida Smart ID application will be revamped and enhanced by a new vendor in the future. In the meantime, they have removed the current app from the app store and are encouraging users to contact them via email to receive updates on the app’s future availability. This indicates that the department is committed to providing a digital ID solution, but with a different approach moving forward.

While Florida has decided to discontinue its in-house digital ID app, other states like Louisiana and New York are steadily incorporating digital IDs into their systems. However, the approach varies, with some states opting for standalone apps while others integrate digital IDs into existing platforms like Google Wallet or Apple Wallet. This diversity in implementation highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with digital identification in different regions.

The closure of the Florida Smart ID app sheds light on the complexities of offering digital identification services at a state level. Despite initial promise, factors such as low user adoption and limited support from law enforcement agencies ultimately led to the app’s shutdown. As the FLHSMV explores new partnerships and technologies to enhance their digital ID offering, it remains to be seen how they will address the shortcomings of their previous app and adapt to the evolving landscape of digital identification.