As we move into a world driven by digital identity solutions, the need for secure, interoperable and user-centric standards has never been greater. At the forefront of this change is ISO 18013-5, the standard that’s shaping the future of mobile driver’s licenses (mDLs). But what is ISO 18013-5 and why does it matter? Let’s dive in.
ISO 18013-5 is part of a larger series of standards for driver’s licenses. While other parts cover physical licenses, this one sets the rules for storing, transmitting and validating digital licenses on mobile devices. Think of it as the blueprint for mDLs that are not just digital versions of your driver’s license but a tool for secure and efficient identity verification.
By following ISO 18013-5 organizations can integrate mDLs into digital identity ecosystems knowing security, privacy and interoperability are built in.
ISO 18013-5 brings together several key elements that make mDLs secure and work. Let’s break it down:
Your mDL isn’t just a digital photo of your license—it’s a structured set of data. The standard defines what data can be included (e.g. your name, date of birth, license number) and ensures it’s protected by digital signatures and cryptography. So the data can’t be altered and its authenticity can always be verified.
Ever wondered how an mDL would work at an airport or a nightclub? ISO 18013-5 defines communication methods like NFC (near-field communication) and Bluetooth for secure, contactless data exchange. So your mDL can talk to any system anywhere in the world.
Security is at the core of ISO 18013-5. The standard requires advanced encryption to protect data in transit and multi-factor authentication (e.g. biometric scans) to verify the mDL holder’s identity. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and fraud.
ISO 18013-5 has benefits for governments, businesses and individuals:
By standardising how mDLs are created and verified, ISO 18013-5 reduces fraud and identity theft risks. The embedded security features build trust and reliability across industries.
One of the key features of the standard is interoperability. mDLs to ISO 18013-5 will work across borders and industries, making international travel smoother, customer onboarding faster and identity verification seamless.
No more handing over too much personal information. ISO 18013-5 supports selective disclosure, so you can share only what’s needed – like proving you’re over 18 without sharing your full date of birth. This is self-sovereign identity in action, where individuals control their data.
ISO 18013-5 has practical applications in both public and private sectors so it’s the foundation of modern digital identity:
Government Services can use mDLs to simplify identity verification for public services. The cross border interoperability of ISO 18013-5 also means international travel and commerce is easier, so you can navigate customs or rent a car abroad.
Companies across industries, from banking to retail, can use mDLs to simplify onboarding and build customer trust. For example, an mDL could make opening a bank account or buying age restricted products faster and more secure.
Want to add ISO 18013-5 compliant mDLs to your digital identity solution? Here’s how to get started:
At Vidos we help organisations unlock the potential of ISO 18013-5 to build secure, user centric identity solutions. Whether you’re looking to add mDLs to your existing systems or explore new digital identity opportunities our team will be with you every step of the way.
Let’s make identity proofing secure, seamless and under your control. Get in touch today.
