Big changes are coming for UK motorists as digital driving licences are set to debut in 2025, said to offer a streamlined and modern alternative to the traditional plastic card.
Instead of carrying a physical card, drivers will soon have the option to access their licence through a government app, stored in a virtual wallet. While the app won’t integrate with popular services like Google or Apple Wallet, its set to offer the same functionality, with the intention of making it easier to carry ID for everyday tasks such as buying age-restricted items or even boarding domestic flights.
Will physical licences be scrapped?
The digital licence will be completely optional, meaning your trusty plastic card isn’t going anywhere. But ministers believe the voluntary digital option will ‘drag government into the 2020s’, according to The Times. This move ensures those without smartphones or who prefer traditional methods won’t be left out.
How secure will the digital driving licences be?
Security is understandably a major concern, but the app is promising advanced safeguards akin to those used in online banking. These include biometric logins, security codes, and options to hide sensitive details such as your home address when needed.
The government is looking into adding more features to the app, such as tax payments, benefits claims, and National Insurance numbers. However, compulsory national ID cards — previously proposed by former Prime Minister Tony Blair and former Conservative Party leader William Hague — aren’t part of the plan.
Nearly 50 million Britons hold either a provisional or full driving licence, and the introduction of digital licences will bring the UK in line with countries like Australia, Denmark, and several US states that have already adopted similar systems.
The digital licences are set to be introduced for some time in 2025, but the exact launch date are yet to be confirmed following the initial announcement in January.
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