Digital driving licences coming this year as part of new government app

Digital driving licences stored in a new government app on smartphones that can be used to prove a person’s age are to be made available this year, the Government has confirmed.

A new Gov.uk app will be launched this summer for accessing government services, and will include a new Gov.uk “wallet” to store digital versions of government-issued documents, beginning with a veteran card and then a pilot of driving licences later this year.

The wallet will make use of security features already built into modern smartphones, including facial recognition – similar to how people use such tools to pay for things using a digital bank card on their phone.

Using the digital system will be optional, the Government said, and physical documents will remain available.

Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said that by the end of 2027, the Government hoped to have a range of documents available inside the wallet, including DBS checks and every other credential issued by the government.

“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,” Mr Kyle said.

“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.”

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander 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 digital update comes alongside plans announced to make £45 billion in efficiency savings by using digital tools and data to upgrade public services, including introducing AI tools to the Civil Service to speed up work in Whitehall.