Major DVLA driving licence update set to impact drivers - and many don't even know A new rule from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is set to affect all driving licence holders in the UK. However, a significant number of British motorists are unaware of the upcoming change (Image: (Image: Getty) ) An alarming number of UK motorists seem to be in the dark about a crucial update from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) that is set to affect all driving licence holders across the nation. This year, Labour disclosed plans for a cutting-edge digital driving licence platform, which would enable drivers to display their photocard licences on smartphones, doing away with the need to carry physical copies. ‌ While a specific launch date for this groundbreaking service has not been finalized, it is expected that the digital GOV.UK app will begin its introduction starting this summer. Article continues below Despite the fact that the initiative was announced back in January, recent survey results show a majority remain unaware of the change. The startling statistics come from a survey consisting of 1,000 respondents, whereby a significant 57% were found to be clueless about the imminent switch to digital, leaving a mere 43% informed about the update. Regtransfers CEO, Mark Trimbee, raised a flag regarding the lack of public knowledge about the DVLA's move, pointing out possible issues this unfamiliarity could cause down the line. ‌ Mark spoke on the issue, saying: "There's no escaping the fact that our lives are being lived in an increasingly digitised space. Putting our driving licences on our phones feels like a natural next step, especially when so many of us already rely on mobiles for everything from banking to boarding passes. "That said, a driving licence isn't just another app - it's a key part of our identity. Our data shows that a lot of people still don't know much about the government's proposed changes. "That kind of gap in awareness can naturally lead to concerns or reluctance to adopt. It's important the government takes the time to explain how it all works, what the benefits are, and - perhaps most importantly - how people's data will be kept safe. ‌ "The more informed people are, the more confident they'll feel about using these new tools." The upcoming GOV.UK app aims to incorporate a variety of documents—including Veteran Cards and DBS checks—among other government-issued credentials, starting from 2027. Authorities assert that the digital wallet feature will offer immediate access to credentials and licences once the application process has successfully been navigated, sidestepping the delays often associated with postal delivery. ‌ This move towards digital passes could also boost convenience and reduce the likelihood of losing important documents. The Government views this progress as a step towards achieving a £45 billion saving, signalling considerable overhauls in public sector technology. However, Mark Trimbee has highlighted the necessity of preserving physical photo card options for those who prefer them. The CEO concluded: "I think people should be free to choose whatever they feel most comfortable with." Article continues below He raised practical concerns regarding a completely digital system, noting: "While a digital driving license certainly would be convenient in many cases, a card license doesn't run the risk of being completely inaccessible if my phone breaks or runs out of battery."