Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) will launch a pilot program accepting mobile IDs for age verification at its Westbard retail store. The program starts Feb. 5, making Montgomery County the first government-run alcohol distribution system in the region to accept digital IDs for alcohol purchases.
ABS and the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) will hold a kick-off event at 10 a.m. on Feb. 5 at the newly renovated Westbard Oak Barrel & Vine store. The store is at 5390 Westbard Avenue in Bethesda. Officials will demonstrate the Mobile ID Check by MD app. The first customer will use a Maryland mobile ID to verify their age for an alcohol purchase.
“This collaboration between ABS and MVA shows how technology can improve convenience and security,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “By accepting mobile IDs, we’re providing a modern solution that simplifies transactions, enhances privacy and prevents fraud.”
ABS Director Kathie Durbin said the program offers more than convenience. “The Mobile ID Check adds another layer of authentication. It gives us one more tool to keep alcohol away from those under 21. It helps keep our community safe.”
MVA Mobile IDs
The MVA offers mobile IDs through its Maryland Mobile ID program. It is available in Apple Wallet, Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet. More than 250,000 Marylanders have added their driver’s license or state ID to their phones since 2022. Maryland Mobile ID is also accepted at select TSA checkpoints and some restaurants at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.
“The MVA is proud to partner with Montgomery County to deploy this innovative solution,” said MVA Administrator Christine Nizer. “Customers can prove they’re over 21 without disclosing unnecessary personal data.”
The MVA recently launched the Mobile ID Check by MD app. It lets businesses verify age using mobile driver’s licenses without extra hardware. For more details, visit the MVA website.
Following the pilot, ABS may expand mobile ID acceptance to all 27 of its retail stores.
