Driving licence update that will affect 50 million Brits - what you need to know
Motorists in the UK residents will soon see a significant shift in how they can use their driving licences. The Government is set to unveil an innovative mobile application, enabling users to access a digital version of their licence and identification.
Authorities are optimistic that the digital driver's licence platform could yield considerable cost savings, forecasted at approximately £45 billion. Integrated within the pre-existing Gov.uk App and Wallet, the digital solution strives to provide an effortless way to retrieve critical documents, including driving credentials and MOT deadlines.
The introduction of digital ID is also anticipated to influence retail practices, with supermarkets recognising it for age verification during sales transactions. Transport secretary Heidi Alexander welcomed the endeavour, calling it a "game changer".
"This is a game changer for the millions of people who use their driving licence as ID," she noted. "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."
As The Mirror reported, the blueprint for the digital wallet was revealed in January, with certain features set to be tested by early users later this year.
Military veterans will be among the first groups to reap the benefits, as the app will grant them immediate access to their HM Armed Forces Veteran Card on their mobile devices.
The initiative aims to simplify the process of verifying veteran status, thereby facilitating easier access to the support and entitlements they deserve. The Gov.UK Wallet will be compatible with both iOS and Android devices.
The digital driving licence will be acknowledged as an equivalent to the conventional plastic licence and will be accepted as a form of ID. However, those who already possess plastic licences will still be able to use them, as drivers are not being compelled to discard their existing cards.
Physical licences will continue to be issued, with digital licences being optional during the initial phase of its launch.
The digital licence app does offer extra perks such as the ability to review their driving record, endorsements, and renewing the licence, all in one convenient location.
Users will have the ability to check penalty points via the app, which will incorporate encryption and two-factor authentication to enhance security and deter forgery. The app is also designed to simplify access to drivers' details.
In a statement released earlier this year, the Government emphasised that the Gov.UK Wallet is "underpinned" by robust security and identity verification measures.
The Government further 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."
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