“Colorado is at the forefront of digital innovation to better serve customers,” said Executive Director Mark Ferrandino, Colorado Department of Revenue, in a news release. “We are committed to saving people time, enhancing convenience and security, and expanding accessibility for all Coloradans.”

A quick glance at any online discussion board reveals the challenges confronting digital identity, and why we’re so wedded to the plastic driver’s licenses in our wallets.

The total number of digital IDs, including driver’s licenses, health cards and fishing licenses in the state is 2.5 million, according to Envoc. They are part of the LA Wallet, which the firm created for the state.

The state’s mobile driver’s license system was developed by IDEMIA in partnership with the Mississippi Department of Safety (DPS), and launched last year. Residents who are interested in the MDL can sign up when they receive their physical driver’s licenses, essentially enabling the creation of a virtual duplicate of their physical ID.

Digital identity verification has wide-ranging implications that can improve quality of life, maintain a high level of security and privacy, and improve access to public and private sector resources for high-need communities.

Illinois is looking into the idea of going digital because of House Bill 0260, which requires the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office to conduct a study on the feasibility of implementing digital license plates and driver’s licenses.

Mississippi’s mobile driver’s license program faces its first real statewide test next month, as residents will be allowed to use their smartphones as their identification when they vote.

Hawaii is one of many states that could soon accept driver’s licenses on mobile devices. A spokesperson for the city and county of Honolulu says they are looking for ways to modernize the city and the potential for mobile IDs and touch-less technology is limitless.

Both Customs and Border Protection and the Transportation Security Administration continue to expand the use of facial recognition technology to verify traveler identity, with both agencies touting both the security and customer experience benefits of using biometrics, while pledging to safeguard privacy and security.

Driver’s licenses could soon be available on cell phones in Pennsylvania, authorities said, as the state confirmed they are currently “exploring the concept” of taking the significant step toward digitizing more of daily life.