New-look driver's licences to hit the road

Contactless cards will be easier for police to scan.

New driver's licence cards will be rolled out across Queensland. Picture: Chris Ison ROK021116cdrive1

NEW driver's licence cards will be rolled out across Queensland, starting this month.

Department of Transport and Main Roads general manager for land transport safety and regulation, Andrew Mahon, said a new contract for the state's licence products gave the department the opportunity to refresh the design.

The new cards will also be contactless.

"The new cards will maximise customer value for money and have several benefits,” Mr Mahon said.

"The current cards have a visible microchip, which requires them to be inserted in scanners for reading, but the new cards will be contactless, so they will be tapped on a scanner.

"The updated design means the chip, which is now contained within the card, is no longer visible, allowing space for bigger font to assist Queensland Police officers and security staff reading the cards.”

The revamped cards also have updated security features.

Mr Mahon said the roll-out would include a new photo identification card to help younger Queenslanders.

"We are aware young people who don't have a learner licence may still need photo identification to prove their age and access community services,” he said.

"Since April 1, the current Adult Proof of Age card has become the Photo Identification card and eligibility for the card has been reduced from 18 to 15 years old.

''First-time class C (car) learner applicants who hold a Photo ID card will be eligible for a $40 reduced fee.”

The Photo Identification card and new Marine Licence Indicator cards started rolling out from April 1.

The remaining licence cards, including driver and heavy vehicle licences, will be available from mid-June this year.