DVLA is set to launch the Digital Driving Licence, later this year, which is a modern and convenient way to get your licence instead of a physical one. This could also mean that your provisional is updated to a full licence, within hours of passing your driving test. 

The digital licence will be part of a new government app., which can also be used as a secure ID for things like buying alcohol, voting, and entry into clubs.

Features and how they’ll keep your info safe:

– The new digital licence will be linked to the updated Gov.uk app, which will be like a digital wallet for all your government information. Currently the app holds your national insurance number, help to save, tax returns for the self employed, and some information on benefits you may be receiving.

– The app will use biometrics and other cool security features to make sure only the real owner of the licence can access it. With fraud and identity theft rising each year, the government hopes that this will help protect us better.

– The wallet could also be used to pay road tax, and claim benefits in future.

As a father of two daughters, a feature I really like with the digital licence, is that you can hide your address when you show them to places like bars or shops, which is great for privacy, and personal safety.

They’re also expected to make self-checkout age verification at supermarkets easier, so you don’t have to wait for a staff member to check your age.

What do you think; Is this a step forward in the digital age, or do you prefer a plastic card?