Ballarat trials digital driver’s licences on smartphones ahead of 2024 statewide rollout

Motorists will soon have access to digital driver’s licences on their smartphones — but not all parts of the state will be part of the six-month trial.

Victorian motorists will soon have access to a digital driver’s licence as part of a six month trial. Picture: Alan Barber.

Victorian motorists will soon have access to digital driver's licences on their smart phones.

The state government on Monday announced a six month trial would begin in July, before a statewide rollout by 2024.

The new technology will give motorists the choice to store a digital version of their driver's licence in the Service Victoria app or the soon-to-be launched myVicRoads app.

The trial will begin in Ballarat for full-licence holders, who can register their interest to take part in the scheme from June.

The card will include security features with the licence to be updated in real time to respond to any changes such as new licence conditions or a change of address.

The digital cards will include security features and be updated in real time to respond to any changed licence conditions. Picture: William West.

Digital licences will automatically reveal if a licence has been revoked or suspended but will still be available for use to prove identity or age when it is not active.

The licence will have a timed QR code that can be scanned by licence validators such as police, businesses and other authorities to verify authenticity and prevent fraudulent use.

But the application will allow users to hide their address and only show their date of birth to ensure privacy when using an ID to enter venues or purchase alcohol.

Government Services Minister Danny Pearson said the security of personal information is the highest priority.

“This is world-class technology,” he said.

“So for example, if I don’t really want the bouncer to know where I live, you can just basically show that yes here it is, a green tick, I’m over 18.

“If you’re dealing with Victoria Police and it’s a licensing matter or they pull you over, again they are going to be able to have full access to your driving history and be able to look at it.”

During the Ballarat trial, feedback will be sought from motorists, retailers, licensed venues, Victoria Police and places where a licence is used as proof of identity.

Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne said the technology was a game changer.

“A digital driver licence will make it easier and more convenient for Victorian motorists and it will help businesses and authorities to verify identity with minimum time and fuss,” she said.