Method, device, computer program and computer-readable storage medium for operating a vehicle

A method for operating a motor vehicle includes receiving a first authorization signal for operating the vehicle transmitted from a vehicle key. The method also includes ascertaining whether the vehicle key is located outside the vehicle. If the vehicle key is located outside the vehicle, then it is determined whether a mobile device which is communicatively coupled to the vehicle is located in the vehicle. If a mobile device which is communicatively coupled to the vehicle is located in the vehicle, then it is determined whether the mobile device can be assigned to a person sitting in a driver's seat of the vehicle. If so, then a digital key is generated for the further use of the vehicle, and the vehicle is operated on the basis of the digital key.