Digital Driving Licences Coming to UK Smartphones This Year

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The UK government plans to let drivers keep their licenses on their phones through a new Gov.uk app later this year.

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The new phone-based license uses smartphone security features including biometrics and multi-factor authentication, similar to security measures used in many banking apps.

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When buying alcohol or boarding a UK flight, people can show their digital license instead of carrying their plastic card.

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Shoppers can prove their age at self-checkout stores without waiting for staff help.

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The app includes features like protecting addresses in certain situations, such as in bars or shops.

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Physical cards aren't going away though. The government says getting a digital license is completely optional.

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Technology now makes it possible for digital identities to be more secure than physical ones, but we remain clear that they will not be made mandatory," a government spokesperson told the BBC.

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The government is considering integrating other services into the app, such as tax payments and benefits claims.

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However, privacy groups have concerns. Big Brother Watch, a privacy campaign organisation, called the potential move "one of the biggest assaults on privacy ever seen in the UK

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The introduction of digital licenses could reduce the environmental impact of producing and replacing physical cards, though the government hasn't detailed the specific environmental benefits.

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The true impact will become clearer once people start using digital licenses for day-to-day activities.

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