More than 2,500 Ballarat drivers are using Victoria’s first digital driver licences as the local pilot builds momentum ahead of a statewide rollout.

Participants are using Service Victoria and VicRoads apps to store secure versions of their licence on their phones, simplifying everyday tasks and reducing hassle.

Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson today visited Ballarat to receive an update on the progress of the pilot, which will pave the way for an eventual state-wide digital driver licence release by 2024.

A digital licence can be updated in real time to reflect changes to licence conditions or change of address and features superior security features including an inbuilt dynamic hologram and refresh function.

The digital driver licence also has a highly secure, timed QR code that can be scanned by businesses and other authorities to verify authenticity and prevent fraudulent use. Digital licences automatically reveal if a licence has been cancelled or suspended, but can still be used to prove identity or age.

Customers, retailers, licenced venues, Victoria Police members and other places that use a licence as proof of identity, such as Australia Post, are providing feedback throughout the pilot.

The Andrews Labor Government chose Ballarat for the trial because of its population size and mix of businesses and venues where the technology can be widely tested.

There has been strong interest in the digital product with thousands of residents registered for the pilot with new participants being added progressively.

If you live in Ballarat you can register to participate in the pilot on the VicRoads or Service Victoria websites. You will be contacted via email once your digital driver licence is available in the app.

The pilot is currently for full licence holders and won’t change the obligation for L and P plate drivers to always carry their physical licence. Full licence drivers will still have the option to use their physical licence while L and P plate drivers will be invited to participate in the trial in coming months.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Government Services Danny Pearson

“The pilot is going well and we thank the residents of Ballarat for getting involved – more people are getting added by the day and their experience will help shape the statewide rollout.”

“A digital driver licence makes it easier and more convenient for motorists and will help businesses and authorities to verify identity with minimum time and fuss.’’

Quotes attributable to Minister for Roads and Road Safety Melissa Horne

“Victorians have asked for a digital driver licence and that’s why this Ballarat trial is such an important step.”

“The pilot will be activated progressively for those who have registered their interest, to ensure the performance of the product and stability of operating systems.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

”The digital driver licence will make life simpler on several fronts and it’s fantastic to see Ballarat residents leading the way in this pilot.”

Quote attributable to Member for Eureka Michaela Settle

“I encourage people to get on board with the trial. Their feedback will mean we can deliver the best service.”

Quote attributable to Member for Ripon Martha Haylett

”Feedback from Ballarat locals will help make sure the digital licence is an optimum product to benefit everyone across Victoria.”