Plastic driving licences could be phased out as ministers announce a trial of digital licences for the UK.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is preparing to launch new mobile provisional licences for learners, which they will be able to access via a smartphone app.
It is understood that the technology could then be expended to cover full licences, with the app set to be available by 2024, although trials could start as early as next year, reports the MEN.
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In its annual report, the DVLA raised the possibility and benefits of digital driving licences.
It said: “We will introduce a digital driving licence for provisional drivers and also start to build a customer account facility.
“This will ultimately give our customers personalised, easy and secure access to a range of services and allow them more choice in how they transact with us.
“Our services will be secure, scalable and resilient and we will continue to explore and expand the use of emerging technologies.”
Physical plastic cards will still be issued alongside the app, although government sources have indicated that this may be phased out over time.
In a separate move, MoT tests for vehicles are set to become digitised, with booking systems and certificates all moved onto an online system.
The new system is intended to make transport “fairer, greener, and more efficient” according to Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.
Mr Shapps said: “This is a golden chance to shake off the bureaucracy, invest in our future, and realise our potential with world-leading transport that benefits all of Britain.”
The AA has called for card licences to be continues alongside online access, to help elderly drivers continue to have simple access to their documents.
Edmund King, President of the AA, said: “We envisage that many, particularly older drivers, will still want to stick to paper or card driving licences as they don't all have mobile phones.
“Digital driving may suit many, but it should sit alongside the traditional driving licences for some time to come.”
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