Bill > HB472

This bill introduces a framework for digitized identification cards in Hawaii, allowing state-issued digital IDs to be accepted as valid identification under specific conditions. Starting July 1, 2027, state and county law enforcement agencies will be permitted to accept digitized identification cards as proof of identity. The bill defines a "digitized identification card" as a data file available on a mobile device through a state-approved application, containing all the same information as a physical ID and displaying the current status of the license. The legislation establishes important protections, such as prohibiting unauthorized device searches when an ID is displayed and specifying that digital copies not downloaded through an official state application are not considered valid. Businesses and individuals (referred to as "persons" in the bill) can accept these digital IDs for identity verification purposes, but the bill maintains that physical identification documents are still required in certain legal contexts. The Department of Transportation will be responsible for creating rules to implement this new system, with the full act taking effect on July 1, 2077.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=472&year=2026