The government is to make major changes to the UK driving licence later this year
A massive overhaul to driving licences is poised to affect more than 40 million Brits, with the UK government set to “simplify access” later this year. Drivers will soon be able to store their driving licence digitally when a new app launches, which will also house their ID.
According to official papers, ministers believe the new smartphone-based licence could deliver savings of approximately £45 billion. The digital licence will be built into the Gov.uk App and Wallet, giving users quick access to crucial documents such as their driving licence and MOT expiry dates. Meanwhile, supermarkets are preparing to accept the digital ID for age checks when making purchases, reports the Express.
When the plans were unveiled earlier this year, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “This is a game changer for the millions of people who use their driving licence as ID. The innovation puts power back in the hands of the people, making everyday interactions faster, easier, and more secure. We are delivering on the Plan for Change by making public services work for everyone.”
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Working with both iOS and Android devices, the Gov.UK Wallet is set to transform how personal identification and vehicle documentation are carried and shown. The digital driving licence will be recognised as equivalent to the traditional plastic licence and will be accepted as a form of ID.
However, those who already have plastic licences will still be able to use them as motorists will not be forced to bin their existing cards. Physical licences will continue to be issued with digital licences being optional, to begin with at least, though the digital licence app does offer additional benefits such as being able to check their driving record, endorsements as well as renewing the licence, all in one place.
Licence-holders will be able to view penalty points on the app which will also feature encryption and two-factor authentication in a bid to make forgery more difficult to achieve – as well as claiming it will make it easier for drivers to access their details.
In its release shared earlier this year, the government said the Gov.UK Wallet is “underpinned” by security and identity verification measures. It added: “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.”
The rollout is expected to begin later this year, and “all government services will have to offer a digital alternative alongside paper or card credentials by the end of 2027 under plans set out by the blueprint for digital government.”