Using a digital driver’s licence in NSW
In some states, such as NSW, a digital form of the driver’s licence has been introduced. It can often be used in place of your regular plastic licence. Find out the benefits of using a digital driver’s licence.
Using a digital driver’s licence in NSW
In some states, such as NSW, a digital form of the driver’s licence has been introduced. It can often be used in place of your regular plastic licence. Find out the benefits of using a digital driver’s licence.
What is a digital licence?
A digital driver’s licence, as the name suggests, is a form of driver’s licence that you can access, digitally. This product has the same legal status as the NSW plastic driver’s licence and is also accepted across other Australian states and territories. The digital driver’s licence is entirely optional and free to use. It doesn’t replace your plastic licence, and it’s recommended that app users continue to carry their plastic licence card.
What are the benefits of a digital driver’s licence?
There are several benefits to using a digital driver’s licence in NSW:
- The app provides updates in real-time, which means no waiting around for your new plastic card to arrive when you need a renewal.
- You don’t need data to access your digital licence (provided you remain logged in to the app).
- A digital driver’s licence is protected by your phone’s security (such as a PIN or fingerprint), plus the app’s security.
A digital driver’s licence is completely free and optional, and you’re not required to have one.
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How to use a digital driver’s licence
To use your digital licence, you’ll need to install the NSW driver’s licence app (Service NSW) to your phone and follow the prompts to link your details. Download the Service NSW app to your smartphone and log in using your MyServiceNSW Account details. Follow the prompts and link your account to Roads. Your account can only be connected to the one driver’s licence, and can’t be linked to a friend or partner’s.
If a checker is struggling to view your digital licence details or scan the attached QR code, you may need to increase your phone’s brightness. You’ll be required to confirm your Service NSW app PIN each time you access your digital licence.
You mustn’t access your digital driver’s licence while driving. This also applies to when you’re stationary, unless and until a police officer asks you to show your licence. Penalties apply to touching your phone before asked, so keep this in mind if you’re pulled over by the police. Once presented, an officer will either check the details on the digital licence or scan the QR code to confirm its validity.
If your phone is lost or stolen, your digital driver’s licence will be protected by your phone’s security features such as PIN, fingerprint, and facial recognition, plus the app’s PIN.
Remember, if you have a car you must ensure you have compulsory third party insurance, and you must keep your insurance details up to date. In addition, Australia Post has a range of Car Insurance options to suit your circumstances.