How NSW Driver Licences Are About to Change

New South Wales is leading the country in its push toward digital identity, giving drivers and residents easier, more secure access to their credentials. From upgraded digital driver licences to cutting-edge photo card technology, here's what you need to know in 2025.

What Is the NSW Digital Driver Licence?

The NSW Digital Driver Licence (DDL) is an official, government-issued digital version of your physical driver licence. It's available through the Service NSW app on iOS and Android and is accepted by NSW Police and most venues as valid identification.

It replicates the information on your plastic licence and includes security features like a QR code and a digital hologram. Best of all, it's free.

How Do You Get a Digital Licence?

To access your DDL, simply:

Download the latest version of the Service NSW app.
Log in using your MyServiceNSW account.
Follow the prompts to link your driver licence.

You’ll need to stay logged into the app and keep your phone charged — a flat battery means no licence access.

Is It Mandatory?

No, the digital licence is optional. You can still use your traditional plastic card, and there are currently no plans to phase it out.

Can You Use It Without Internet?

Yes. As long as you're logged into the Service NSW app, your digital licence is available even when you’re offline. Just make sure your phone has power.

When Can You Use It?

You can use the DDL just like a physical licence — for proof of age, ID checks, or when requested by police. But be aware: using your phone to access the licence while driving is illegal unless asked to do so by an authorised officer.

Introducing: The Upgraded Digital Photo Card

In April 2025, NSW launched a pilot of its upgraded Digital Photo Card, offering residents a more secure way to share and verify their identity. This is a key step in rolling out the state’s broader Digital ID and Wallet initiative.

What Makes It Different?

Unlike the older digital image stored in the app, the upgraded card allows users to share just the necessary data for a transaction — like proving you're over 18 — via a secure QR code scan. You don’t need to hand over your phone or personal information.

This system follows international ISO security standards and enhances protection against identity theft and misuse.

Where Is It Available?

As part of the pilot, the upgraded Digital Photo Card is available at three Service NSW Centres:

Auburn
Blacktown
Parramatta

Users with an existing Digital Photo Card can voluntarily upgrade, a process that takes only a few minutes.

What Can It Be Used For?

The technology platform behind the new credential will support other forms of secure digital identification in the future, including:

Trade qualifications
Working with Children Checks
Driver licences
First Aid Certificates

These features are expected to roll out statewide once legislative changes are passed.

Extra Features in the Service NSW App

Aside from digital licences and IDs, the app offers:

Vehicle registration checks and renewal
Fines and demerit point tracking
Licence and credential verifiers
Access to government vouchers
Senior Savers and concession cards

You can also manage multiple credentials, such as:

Boat licences
RSA/RCG competency cards
Construction white cards
Fishing licences

Future of NSW’s Digital ID System

This pilot and rollout form part of the NSW Government’s plan to create a comprehensive, privacy-first digital identity platform. With more than one million people in NSW using a Photo Card rather than a driver licence, the benefits of this upgrade will extend to vulnerable communities, migrants, and those without access to traditional ID systems.

As Digital Minister Jihad Dib said:

"This pilot of Australia’s first government-issued digital photo credential is an exciting step towards a digital future for NSW where people have greater control over their digital identity and security."

The future of identification in NSW is mobile, secure, and user-controlled.