The NSW government trial will launch in November and those who choose to download the trial app will be able to use the digital licence for proof of identity and proof of age to gain entry into pubs and clubs, as well for roadside police checks. 

A successful trial would see digital licences rolled out across the state in 2019. It builds on previous introductions of digital boat and fishing licences, as well as responsible service of alcohol and responsible conduct of gambling.

Dubbo MP Troy Grant encouraged residents to adopt the new technology and try it out when it became available.

“We’re moving into a world where technology is an integral part of our life. Our phone is becoming a digital wallet, you can bank on your phone and run your life off your phone so I’m excited Dubbo has been chosen as the first place in Australia to trial the use of digital licences,” he said.

“A person’s driver licence is an important proof of identity document. This trial is an opportunity to demonstrate the additional levels of identity security and increased protection against identity fraud that a digital licence provides compared to a physical one.

“Participation is optional but we encourage Dubbo residents to take the opportunity to be first adopters by registering for the trial.

“The findings of the trial will help inform the state-wide rollout of the digital licence by 2019.”

Once motorists have installed the trial app, registered a MyServiceNSW account and added their NSW driver licence details, they can use their digital driver licence.

“This is a way to look at whether this is something the community want to take up and also test what may be some of the problems,” Mr Grant said.

The trial will run for three months from November.