What we know about new digital driving licence ahead of its release
Scots will be given the option to use a digital version of their driver’s licence by the end of the year.
People will be able use their smartphones to easily prove their age when buying age restricted items online and in person – as well as proving their right to drive. A mobile driver’s licence will be one of the first digital documents which will be stored in a new government app that is set to be launched this summer..
The GOV.UK Wallet will allow users to securely store government-issued documents on their phone and use them easily when needed. The technology will make use of security features that are built into modern smartphones, including facial recognition checks similar to those used when people pay using a digital bank card. It means that digital documents will be more secure, even if a device is lost.
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Science Secretary Peter Kyle announced the change on Tuesday, January 21. He said: "Along with CDs, the Walkman and flip phones, the overflowing drawer rammed with letters from the government and hours spent on hold to get a basic appointment will soon be consigned to history.
"Gov.UK Wallet will mean that every letter or identity document you receive from the government could be issued to you virtually.
"For people who choose to use Gov.UK Wallet, they will find it easier to prove they’re entitled to benefits or check their age when buying alcohol or DIY equipment, with more security and trust than ever before."
"Crucially, it also opens huge opportunities to make interacting with public services much easier by putting people in control of their own data.
"We will be overhauling how the public sector uses technology which is essential to delivering our Plan for Change, and in combination with this new tech for people to use themselves, we are going to slash the time people waste dealing with annoying processes so they can focus on what matters to them."
Showcasing the tool, the Science Secretary set out that by the end of 2027, the GOV.UK Wallet will include documents like Veteran Cards, DBS checks and every other credential issued by the government – for those who choose to use them, while traditional physical documents will remain available.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander noted: "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."
When people first open the government’s new app this summer, they will be able to build a personalised homepage of the services most useful to them by answering a handful of simple questions - for example, if you own a car you can opt to see information about getting an MOT or applying for road tax - brought to them by a brand they already know and trust, GOV.UK.
With GOV.UK One Login integrated into the app, people will be able to quickly confirm who they are so they can securely interact with services. In future, this will mean users can instantly cancel a stolen passport, find an apprenticeship or apply for benefits from the GOV.UK App.
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