Mobile ID Comes to New York

Running a successful restaurant or tavern means staying on top of trends and adopting tools that make your operations smoother and safer. One such innovation is the New York DMV’s Mobile ID (MiD), a digital version of a driver’s license or ID card. Stored on a smartphone, this secure and convenient solution simplifies verifying customer identities and ages, especially in age-restricted industries like ours.

With advanced security features, MiD offers a better alternative to traditional IDs, making it harder for fake IDs to slip through. Beyond security, MiD also enhances efficiency, allowing staff to quickly verify a customer’s information without fumbling through manual checks. Only the necessary data is shared, which also helps safeguard customer privacy.

Imagine a busy Friday night with customers lined up at the bar (or the door) and your staff is working hard to keep things moving. Checking IDs is essential but can be time-consuming. A quick scan of a smartphone using an approved app or scanner not only saves time but also ensures accuracy, reducing the risk of accepting fraudulent IDs. The security benefits are also hard to ignore. Unlike physical IDs, which can be tampered with, MiD relies on cutting-edge encryption to confirm its authenticity. This added layer of protection shields your business from potential violations and protects your liquor license.

 Incorporating MiD into your business is a straightforward process. First, you’ll need an approved verification tool, which can be obtained from the App Store or on Google Play. Once you’ve chosen the right tool, it’s important to train your staff. They should be familiar with how to scan and verify MiDs, ensuring that the customer’s identity matches the person presenting the digital ID. Testing the system before fully rolling it out will help your team gain confidence and avoid hiccups during busy shifts. Don’t forget to let your customers know about this new feature. Simple signage at your entrance or bar stating “We Accept Mobile ID” can encourage customers to use this modern option, creating a faster and more streamlined experience for everyone.

 The New York State Liquor Authority (SLA) has approved the use of MiD to verify age. However, there are rules you must follow to stay compliant:

• The customer must be physically present with their MiD at the time of the transaction.
• Check the photo to ensure the individual seeking alcohol service is the same person represented in the MiD and that the individual is of legal age.
• Confirm the information matches the individual seeking alcohol service.

In cases where the MiD cannot be verified—perhaps due to a technical issue or lack of a scanner—you should fall back on requesting a physical ID. The “affirmative defense” for making an underage sale can be established using an MiD if these rules are followed. Ensuring compliance with these guidelines will protect your business from fines or license suspensions.

 The benefits of adopting MiD are clear. It protects your business by reducing the risk of underage sales, enhances customer satisfaction with faster service, and integrates seamlessly into your existing operations. By leveraging modern technology, you’re not only improving security but also aligning your business with the expectations of today’s tech-savvy customers. For more information on MiDs visit www.dmv.ny.gov and www.sla.ny.gov.