For the first time there's an alternative to the plastic driver's licence in NSW.

 

So far more than 500,000 people have made the switch to the digital version.

 

The system was officially launched on Sunday, but when the website went live last week it struggled to keep up with demand, and many were unable sign up.

 

New South Wales is only the second state, after South Australia, to digitise the system, with Premier Gladys Berejiklian promising it would "make life easier".

 

Here's what you need to know.

 

How does it work?

 

A digital driver's licence can only operate on a smart phone.

 

It's generated through the Service New South Wales app.

 

For the licence to be valid, the mobile phone screen can't be cracked.

 

It's also your responsibility to make sure your phone battery doesn't die, so it can be accessed at all times.

 

Is a digital driver's licence accepted everywhere?

 

For now, the digital licence won't be recognised outside New South Wales and it is yet to be rolled out at all pubs, clubs and retailers.

 

So, if you need proof of identity or age, it's recommended to still leave home with your plastic licence, just in case.

 

There's also no time set for when all agencies and businesses have to adopt the new system.

 

The technology is up and running for NSW Police, including roadside checks.

 

But keep in mind it's still an offence to hold your mobile phone while driving, so wait for police to tell you it's OK to reach for your phone before showing them your ID.

 

Will my personal information be protected?

 

Concerns have been raised by some licence holders around privacy and the mining of data, but the State Government insists "privacy is first and foremost".

 

"We've spent a lot of time making sure the app is secure," Ms Berejiklian said.

 

"I have full confidence that people will find it not only secure but reliable."

 

All information will be stored in the Service New South Wales app, which locks with a personal pin.

 

There is also a hologram on the licence that the Premier claims provides more protection from identity theft than the plastic licence.

 

Are digital licences compulsory?

 

The digital licence is opt-in, so it's still your choice whether to make the switch.

 

There are also no plans, at this stage, to phase out plastic licences.

 

----From ABC News

 

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-04/nsw-digital-driver-licence-explained/11667696