The Government has launched public consultation on the design of digital driver licences, bringing New Zealand a step closer to allowing motorists to carry their licence on a smartphone.
Associate Transport Minister James Meager says the proposal is aimed at making transport services more convenient while giving drivers another way to prove their identity and driving entitlement.
“Digital driver licences are an important step towards making everyday interactions with transport services faster, easier and more secure. This is about giving people a practical new option to prove who they are and their right to drive, using technology many already carry with them every day,” he says.
Meager says the Government wants feedback on the proposed system before it is introduced.
“Our Government is committed to fixing the basics and building the future, and that is exactly what these proposals would achieve. It is about creating a simpler, more joined-up system where people can manage their transport needs online and receive important information quickly.”
He says public input will help ensure the system meets users’ expectations and builds confidence.
Digitising Government Minister Paul Goldsmith says privacy and security are central to the design of the digital licences.
“I want to assure Kiwis that the licences are being designed with privacy and security at their core, allowing users to share only the information required for a transaction,” he says.
Goldsmith says digital licences will be optional, with physical licences remaining available.
“This will be entirely optional. People who prefer a physical licence can keep using one, while those who want the convenience of digital will have that choice.”
The consultation follows the passing of the Regulatory Systems (Transport) Amendment Act earlier this year, which provides the legislative framework for digital driver licences and other transport service improvements.
The New Zealand Transport Agency is leading the four-week consultation on the detailed rules needed to implement the changes.
Police will continue to check licence status through the national driver licence register, with verification of digital licences to be introduced over time.
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