The UK’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is preparing to roll out digital driving licences this year, a move planned to make the application process more efficient and streamlined. The initiative, first reported by The Times, will allow drivers to access their driving credentials through a government-developed mobile app, dubbed the “Digital Wallet.”
This app will enable users to present their digital licence as proof of age at various locations, including bars, clubs, and self-service checkouts. It will also be valid for travel within the UK, including at airports, providing a convenient alternative to the physical photo ID card. The app will include robust security measures, such as biometric authentication and security codes, similar to those used by banking apps, ensuring that only the licence holder has access to their information. Additionally, users will be able to control the visibility of personal details, such as home addresses.
While this digital licence option will be available by the end of the year, it is not mandatory. Drivers will still have the option to use physical licences if preferred, particularly those who hold older paper licences issued before 2000.
The move aligns the DVLA with other countries, including Australia, Denmark, and several US states, where digital driving licences are already in use. This marks another step in the ongoing digital transformation of the UK’s driving services, which already include online licence applications, road tax payments, and access to licence status updates.
This development is expected to streamline the driving experience, offering greater convenience for drivers while maintaining robust security standards.
