Quick Read · Standards

ISO/IEC 18013-5 vs ISO/IEC 18013-7

Both standards are used in the mDL ecosystem, but they serve different purposes. 18013-5 defines the mobile ID and in-person verification. 18013-7 defines how that same credential is presented online.

StandardsQuick ReadmDL
ISO/IEC 18013-5

The credential and in-person presentation

ISO 18013-5 defines the core structure and security model of a mobile driver's license.

Data format

mDL credential format

Defines how identity attributes such as name, date of birth, license number, and photo are structured in the credential.

Security

Mobile Security Object (MSO)

The MSO protects data integrity and carries the issuing authority's cryptographic signature.

Presentation

NFC, QR, and BLE

Defines how credentials are presented in person using tap, scan, or short-range wireless communication.

Typical use

Physical checkpoints

Airport security, retail age verification, access gates, and kiosks.

ISO/IEC 18013-7

Remote and online presentation

ISO 18013-7 extends the mDL ecosystem to support online and remote identity verification.

Credential request

Wallet-to-verifier online flow

Defines how websites or applications request identity credentials directly from a user's wallet.

Security

Secure remote communication

Cryptographic exchange between wallets and online verifiers ensures authenticity and integrity.

Privacy

Selective disclosure online

Holders share only the attributes required — for example, age confirmation without a full license.

Typical use

Digital services

Online banking, digital onboarding, KYC, and remote identity proofing.

Key difference

Same credential, different context

The two standards work together — 18013-5 defines what the credential is, and 18013-7 defines how it travels online.

Standard
ISO/IEC 18013-5
Purpose
Defines the mDL credential and in-person presentation
Typical Use Case
Airport security, retail age verification, physical access
Standard
ISO/IEC 18013-7
Purpose
Defines remote and online presentation of the credential
Typical Use Case
Online banking, digital onboarding, remote identity verification
StandardPurposeTypical Use Case
ISO/IEC 18013-5Defines the mDL credential and in-person presentationAirport security, retail age verification, physical access
ISO/IEC 18013-7Defines remote and online presentation of the credentialOnline banking, digital onboarding, remote identity verification
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In short
ISO/IEC 18013-5 defines the mobile ID and how it works in person, while ISO/IEC 18013-7 enables that same credential to be securely verified online.