Big driving licence change to impact millions of people
A major update is set to impact the more than 40 million people who currently hold a UK driving licence. The UK government is rolling out a new app that will enable drivers to carry a digital version of their driving licence and ID.
Officials are optimistic that the mobile licence will lead to an estimated £45 billion in savings. The digital licence will be integrated into the Gov.uk App and Wallet, providing users with easy access to important documents such as their driving licence and MOT expiry dates.
Additionally, supermarkets will recognise the digital ID for age verification during purchases. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander previously 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." The announcement was made by government officials in January, as reported by the Mirror.
The Gov.UK Wallet will be accessible on both iOS and Android devices. The digital driving licence will be recognised as an equivalent to the traditional plastic licence and will be accepted as a form of ID. However, those who already have a physical plastic licence can carry on using them, and there will be no requirement to get rid of these existing cards.
Physical licences will still be issued, with the option of digital licences being introduced in the initial phase of its launch. The digital licence app does offer additional benefits such as the ability to review one's driving record, endorsements, and renew the licence, all in one place.
It will also incorporate encryption and two-factor authentication, making forgery more challenging and claiming it will simplify access to drivers' details. In its earlier release this year, the government stated that 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."
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