Ajay Gupta - Shaping California's mDL Program and the Future of Digital Identity
In this episode of The Future of Identity Podcast, Riley is joined by Ajay Gupta, Chief Digital Transformation Officer of the California Department of Motor Vehicles, to discuss California’s groundbreaking mobile driver’s license (mDL) program. From its launch to current adoption trends and future ambitions, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how California is shaping the future of mDLs.
In this episode we explore:
- The adoption and growth rates of California’s mDL program, including demographic insights and usage trends.
- Where mDLs are being used today and the balance between Android and iOS wallet downloads.
- The promising potential of remote verification (online use of mDLs) and why Ajay sees it as the fastest-growing channel for adoption.
- Key lessons for other states, DMVs, and government agencies on engaging stakeholders and demonstrating ROI for mDL programs.
- Practical advice for driving adoption among businesses and other relying parties.
This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the future of digital identity, especially professionals working in government, transportation, or identity ecosystems. Whether you’re curious about the technical, policy, or adoption aspects of mDLs, there’s something here for everyone.
Enjoy the episode, and don’t forget to share it with others who would find value in this discussion!
You can learn more about the CA DMV’s mDL hackathon outcomes in a free public briefing webinar on Januaty 10th. Register here.
Reach out to Riley (@rileyphughes) and Trinsic (@trinsic_id) on Twitter. We’d love to hear from you.
Listen to the full episode on Apple podcasts, Spotify, or find all ways to listen at trinsic.id/podcast.
Video timestamps from Ajay Gupta's interview
You can watch the full video interview on our YouTube channel, or skip to the timestamps below to find the sections that are most interesting to you.
2:00 – Ajay’s take on why more states aren’t adopting mDLs
3:52 – No brainer motivation for DMVs to adopt mDLs
7:09 – Other benefits to doing mDLs and why DMVs should do it
10:34 – Diving into the California mDL Pilot program
14:06 – Success criteria to unlock next phase of growth for CA mDL pilot program
17:48 – Development of the California DMV wallet/app
19:23 – Vision and roadmap for how to the CA DMV wallet evolves over time
22:38 – Chicken and egg problem of mDLs and relying parties and blazing a trail forward
26:47 – Most impactful step to seed and encourage relying party adoption of mDLs
29:51 – Remote verification and its impact on California mDL adoption
31:25 – Apple/Google Wallet launch and multi-device use and impact on mDL adoption
34:44 – Dedicated DMV app versus Apple/Google Wallet and thoughts on how it will evolve
37:07 – Timeline thoughts and plan on increased mDL adoption in California
40:29 – Ajay’s thoughts on what the future of digital identity looks like
41:43 – Learn more about the California DMV and get in touch with them
How to get in touch
Most people listen to the Future of Identity on Apple or Spotify. You can find all ways to listen at trinsic.id/podcast.
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As always, you can reach out to our host, Riley Hughes, on X (@rileyphughes) or LinkedIn. We love hearing from listeners! See you again in two weeks.
