This state will be the first to get digital driver licences

NSW drivers will soon be able to show their licence on their phones if they get pulled over by police, with digital licences due to be rolled out across the state.

Legislation will be introduced to parliament in the next two weeks to enable the phased state-wide rollout of the digital driver licence – the first of its kind in Australia, NSW Services Minister Victor Dominello said in a statement on Sunday.

Digital licences will be made available through the Service NSW app on mobile phones allowing people to use it as a proof of identity and age to gain entry into pubs and clubs as well for roadside police checks.

“Smartphones have become de facto wallets and we’re using cutting edge technology so that drivers can use a digital licence in everyday scenarios,” Mr Dominello said.

Digital licences will provide additional levels of security and increased protection against fraud compared to a physical licence, the NSW government said.

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It follows a trial in Dubbo last year where more than 1400 residents used a digital licence.

Drivers who opt-in for the digital service will still be provided with a physical card but won’t be required to carry it with them.