Australia introduces digital driver’s license copy solution to confirm identity

The Government of New South Wales has reported a whopping 1 million, and counting, digital driver’s license downloads, which will soon be able to be used as an acceptable form of identification in more situations, writes ITnews.

Service NSW is working on a ‘copy solution’ to make it easier for companies to confirm identity if a physical photocopy of a license is necessary, to encourage the wide use of the opt-in electronic vehicle license. The DDL is currently used primarily in police checks and to enter licensed venues.

Since its launch in November, it has been downloaded by some 19 percent of license holders, significantly higher than the 12 percent initially estimated.

According to Minister for Customer Service Victor Dominello, the goal is to use the digital pass on a daily basis in situations such as opening a bank account or renting a car.

“Providing a copy solution is a key enabler for broad industry adoption,” he said. “The ultimate vision is for people to be confident going wallet free, knowing that DDL will be accepted in most situations where a driver’s license is required for proof of identity.”

Even though the digital solution is just starting out, ITnews reports it is already accepted as proof of ID. Companies already accepting it are Australia Post and supermarkets Coles and Woolsworths.

AusPost chief Christine Holgate believes this is an important step that goes hand in hand with the government-issued digital identity system.

“We have a lot of experience in the digital space with our own Digital iD already enabling customers to collect parcels with the convenience of their smartphone for the last two years,” she said.

“Now we’re making it easier for our customers to verify themselves across our retail stores.”

The copy solution will be rolled out in upcoming months. Service NSW is working on a solution with Law Society, eConveyancing, banks and others.

Article Topics

Australia  |  biometrics  |  digital identity  |  driver's license  |  identity document  |  identity proofing  |  mobile