Victoria to introduce digital driver’s licences from 2024

VICTORIAN drivers will soon be offered the option to carry their licence on their phone with the state government announcing today that a trial of the program will begin in the regional centre of Ballarat from July.

If successful, the program will be rolled out state-wide by 2024.

According to a statement issued by the state’s Labor government, the new technology will allow motorists to store a “secure digital version” of their driver’s licence with the Service Victoria app, or soon-to-be-launched my VicRoads app.

A pilot for the program will mean all full licence holders in the Ballarat region sign up for the service via the Service Victoria or VicRoads website.

Those who register will be “progressively invited to add a digital version of their licence to their phone”, says the state government release, adding that the trial will not change the obligation for L (learner) and P (probationary) drivers to carry their physical licence with them while driving.

The release also says that the digital licence will offer features the physical card does not, including real-time status updates “in response to any changes”, including change of address, or whether a licence has been revoked or suspended.

The digital licence is also said to feature a “highly secure, timed QR code” that can be scanned by “licence validators”, such as police, businesses, and other authorities to “verify authenticity and prevent fraudulent use”.

“Accessibility and security of personal information is the highest priority. During the Ballarat trial, feedback will be sought from motorists, retailers, licenced venues, Victoria Police, and places where a licence is used a proof of identity,” the government statement read.

Victoria’s Labor state government said that it will work with Victorian workers and businesses in anticipation of a state-wide rollout to ensure all are well prepared.

“We know Victorians want digital driver’s licences and that’s why this trial is such a big step before further rollout occurs,” said Victorian minister for roads and road safety, Melissa Horne.

“A digital driver’s licence will make it easier and more convenient for Victorian motorists and it will help business and authorities to verify identity with a minimum of time and fuss.”

Ms Horne’s sentiments were echoed by the Victorian minister for government services, Danny Pearson, who said, “This is world-class technology – the digital driver’s licence has a constantly refreshed unique QR code and the customer has control over the level of personal information shared”.

“We know Victorians are calling of for more cards to be added to the Service Victoria wallet and that is why we are thrilled that the digital driver’s licence will soon be added.”