Millions of motorists will soon see the introduction of digital driving licences as the Government hails the new technology as "game-changing".
Drivers around the country will be able to have the option of using a digital version of their licence on their phones to prove their right to drive.
Motorists will be encouraged to use a new GOV.UK App to access Government services, with a Veteran Card being the first document available on their phones.
A spokesperson for the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) confirmed that the changes would be launching soon.
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The new digital driving licence will launch later this year
PA/GOV.UK
They said: "The GOV.UK Wallet will be launched this summer with the first credential being a digital Veteran card.
"Later in the year, we plan to begin rolling out a digital driving licence, which will eventually be usable for everything your paper licence is currently used for.
"We're working closely with DVLA and industry to meet this timeline," This is Money reported.
The GOV.UK Wallet will allow drivers to securely store documents on their phone with high-grade security features to ensure they are not hacked.
This will include facial recognition checks similar to those when paying for something with a bank card. The documents will also remain secure if the phone is lost.
Science Secretary Peter Kyle confirmed that people would be able to access documents like Veteran Cards, DBS checks and every other credential issued by the Government by the end of 2027.
However, motorists will still be able to use their physical photocard licences to prove their right to drive.
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."
In addition to seeing their digital driving licence, motorists can also opt in to see information about getting an MOT or applying for car tax.
The GOV.UK Wallet will also help drivers avoid long waiting times when applying for new photocard licences.
The Science Secretary added that the new GOV.UK Wallet will help drivers modernise their documents, leaving behind numerous letters from the Government, likening them to CDs, the Walkman and flip phones.
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The GOV.UK digital driving licence app will also show tax remindersGOV.UKHe added: "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."
