Experts are warning that the introduction of new digital driving licences could have a huge impact on drivers and businesses.
Digital driving licences are set to arrive in the UK later this year as part of the new GOV.UK Wallet initiative, promising to simplify identity verification and driving validation.
The technology will leverage security features built into modern smartphones, including facial recognition checks similar to those used for digital banking payments.
This means digital documents will remain secure even if a device is lost, according to Government assurances.
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The digital driving licence is expected to launch in the coming months
PA/GOV.UK
The system aims to simplify everyday tasks like proving one's right to drive or validating identity for age-restricted purchases.
Fleet efficiency could see significant improvements through streamlined administrative processes, according to industry experts.
However, research indicates that both fleet managers and everyday drivers may be at different stages of readiness for this technological shift.
Recent polling by TTC reveals that while 84 per cent are open to using digital driving licences, only 23 per cent would be happy with a digital-only option.
The majority (61 per cent) prefer keeping a physical card alongside any digital version. Around 16 per cent of drivers remain entirely opposed to digitisation, preferring to stick with the traditional plastic licence.
This split in driver preferences suggests implementation may require a hybrid approach to satisfy most users.
David Marsh, CEO of TTC Group, believes digital licences could significantly reduce administrative burdens for fleet operators, adding: "Keeping abreast of regular driver validation checks can be a struggle timewise for businesses.
"In further research, we found only 33 per cent of businesses routinely monitor their employees' driving licences. Anything that streamlines this process should be applauded."
He noted that while modernisation of licences is a good first step, "digital tools must be part of a wider, continuous compliance strategy".
A separate study from Regtransfers found that almost three in five UK licence holders are unaware of the upcoming digital shift.
Despite the GOV.UK Wallet's promised benefits, many drivers remain sceptical about data privacy and cybersecurity.
When surveyed, 41 per cent of drivers expressed "little to no trust" in the Government's ability to manage or protect their personal data.
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The GOV.UK digital driving licence app will also show tax remindersGOV.UKMark Trimbee, chief executive of Regtransfers, said: "There's no escaping the fact that our lives are being lived in an increasingly digitised space.
"Putting our driving licences on our phones feels like a natural next step—but it's not just another app. It's a key part of our identity.
"While digital licences are convenient, people should be free to choose whatever they feel most comfortable with. A card licence doesn't run the risk of being inaccessible if your phone breaks or the battery dies."
