The bill proposes the establishment of a Digital Identification Program under a new Chapter 526 in the Transportation Code. This program will allow the issuance of various forms of digital identification, including digital driver's licenses, personal identification certificates, handgun licenses, and hunting or fishing licenses. The Department of Public Safety, in consultation with the Parks and Wildlife Department, is tasked with creating this program, which will include assessing and upgrading existing infrastructure, providing a digital solution that can be accessed via wireless devices, and ensuring that law enforcement can accept digital IDs as valid identification. The bill also allows the department to charge a fee of up to $5 for the issuance of these digital identifications.

The implementation of the Digital Identification Program is required to be completed by September 1, 2026. However, if the Department of Public Safety finds that federal authorization is needed before implementing any part of the program, they may delay the implementation until such authorization is obtained. Notably, while digital identification will be accepted as evidence of identity similar to a driver's license, it cannot be used for voting purposes. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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