Government digital document app launching in summer

Science and technology secretary Peter Kyle has announced the new tools, as part of the government’s overhaul of digital services. It comes after its AI Opportunities Action Plan was outlined last week.

As well as the government embracing technology, it hopes to achieve efficiency savings of £45bn.

The gov.uk digital wallet will be available on Apple and Android devices, and alongside a driver’s licence it will allow a user to show proof of benefits or a veteran card.

The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) said the veteran card will be made available to former service personnel later this year.

The driving licence will also be able to be used for buy age-restricted items like alcohol. It is hoped they will also be able to be used for voting in elections and travelling on domestic flights.

Furthermore, there will be a feature that could allow users to hide their address in certain situations where they want to, such as in a bars or a shop.

The DVLA said that in 2024 there were over 52 million driving licences in Great Britain.

Virtual licences are already in use in Australia, Denmark, Iceland and Norway.

DSIT said it hopes many government services will be able to be offered as a digital alternative alongside paper or card versions by the end of 2027.

Mr Kyle added: “Along with CDs, the Walkman and flip phones, the overflowing drawer rammed with letters from the government and hours spent on hold to get a basic appointment will soon be consigned to history.

“gov.uk wallet will mean that every letter or identity document you receive from the government could be issued to you virtually.”

For the gov.uk app, DSIT said users will eventually be able to quickly manage their interactions with government – including MOT and road tax information and applying for benefits – in one place. The app will be available from the summer.