The future of travel and events in a post-pandemic world may now also include a digital COVID passport. New York has now rolled out a digital pass for optional download to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.

The program is called the Excelsior Pass and it will already be accepted by some major evenues like Albany’s Times Union Center and Madison Square Garden.

The pass uses a secure QR code that can be stored in a smartphone or printed out, (much like a mobile boarding pass.)

In the app's announcement, officials also say the technology doesn’t store or track private health data within it.

Governor Cuomo shared the motivation behind the pass saying, "The question of 'public health or the economy' has always been a false choice — the answer must be both. As more New Yorkers get vaccinated each day... the first-in-the-nation Excelsior Pass heralds the next step in our thoughtful, science-based reopening."

Some experts still worry this pass will exclude many hard hit communities who might not have access to proper technology.

The pass is now active for New Yorkers on an opt in basis. More information on how to download the pass can be found here.