Major driving licence change just announced in the UK — here’s what it means for you

A significant change is on the way for UK motorists. Beginning later this year, millions of drivers will be able to carry a digital version of their driver's licence on their smartphones. The change is part of the government's overall effort to modernize and simplify public services.

The UK government is launching a digital driving license via a new Gov.uk app. Over 40 million people will be impacted by a significant change to driver's licenses that the UK government plans to "simplify access" later this year.

Although physical cards remain valid, the digital version provides greater convenience, security, and faster access to records.

Officials anticipate that the new smartphone-based license will result in savings of approximately £45 billion, according to documents. Users will have simple access to vital documents like their driver's license and MOT expiration dates thanks to the digital license's integration into the Gov.uk App and Wallet, as per a report by the Daily Express.

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Supermarkets are also preparing to accept digital IDs for age verification when customers make purchases. "This is a game changer for the millions of people who use their driving license as ID," stated Heidi Alexander, the transport secretary, when the decision was made earlier this year.

"The invention increases the speed, ease, and security of daily interactions while returning power to the people. By ensuring that public services are accessible to all, we are fulfilling the Plan for Change.

How will the digital licence work?

The Gov.UK Wallet, which is compatible with both iOS and Android devices, has the potential to completely transform the way that driver's licenses and personal identification are carried and displayed.

The government claimed that the Gov.UK Wallet is "underpinned" by security and identification verification procedures in a statement released earlier this year.

It stated, "Using a single sign-on also means accessing government services will be much more straightforward, saving individuals and businesses money and hours of frustration so they can focus on what matters,” reported the Daily Express.

Is this change mandatory for drivers?

According to plans outlined in the roadmap for digital government, the deployment is anticipated to start later this year, and by the end of 2027, all government services must provide a digital option in addition to paper or card credentials.

Will physical licences still be valid?

The digital driver's license will be accepted as identification and will be regarded as an equal to the conventional plastic license. However, drivers won't be forced to throw away their current cards, so those who already have plastic licenses will still be able to use them.

At least initially, digital licenses will be optional, and physical licenses will still be granted.

What are the other benefits of the digital license app?

The digital license app also offers the convenience of renewing the license, reviewing driving history, and viewing endorsements in a single location.

Aside from making it easier for drivers to access their information, the app will also have encryption and two-factor authentication to make it harder for forgeries to occur. License holders will be able to view penalty points on the app.

FAQs

Will I still need to carry my plastic driver's licence?
No, the digital licence will not be accepted as valid ID; however, physical licences will continue to be issued and remain valid.

What can I do with the digital licence application?
You can securely check your driving record, view penalty points, renew your licence, and access key documents such as MOT dates using your phone.