Queensland’s new digital driver’s licence is now available statewide, but it’s had some early teething problems.
Residents can now download the Queensland Digital Licence app on Apple’s App Store for iPhones or the Google Play Store for Android devices.
The digital licence can then be added provided the user has a Queensland Digital Identity (QDI).
It had previously been offered only to Fraser Coast and Townsville residents as part of a trial.
ABC News reports the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has this morning warned of delays.
“Ahead of the planned launch of the Queensland Digital Licence, we conducted a larger-scale final test of the app,” the department said in a statement.
“We were not satisfied with the customer experience in that final check and so we are adjusting in response to the performance of the testing.
“We will be doing further testing to check to validate any changes that we make, and we will keep users informed.
“Some customers have experienced delays and so we are asking you to wait before downloading. We will let you know when the issue is resolved.”
The Department says more than 150,000 Queenslanders successfully downloaded the app today.
“We know it’s very popular right now, almost as popular as tickets to a Taylor Swift concert, and that is causing some delays for customers,” said TMR’s Acting Director General, Sally Stannard.
“But the difference between the Digital Licence app and a Taylor Swift concert is that you’re not going to miss out on a digital licence.
“We’re asking Queenslanders to be patient and take their time to download it, wait until tomorrow or try later in the week.
“When you do download it, it’s going to be very helpful for users, and for businesses around the state who will be able to easily verify identities.”
The app can be used to store other Queensland Government-issued photo identification cards and marine licences.
Queenslanders will be able to use the digital driver’s licence as they would a physical one, for example to get into clubs or pick up packages, due to legislation passed in 2020.
The digital licence doesn’t replace the physical one, which will still be sent out to Queenslanders but can safely be left at home.
Digital licences are available to those on learner, provisional or open licences alike, though people with only one name (i.e. not a first name or surname) aren’t able to get one at this point.
The app is encrypted, and requires a six-digit code to access. It can be accessed even if there’s no internet service.
The Queensland Government says it completed a privacy impact assessment and implemented all of its recommendations. It’s compliant with international standard ISO18013-5.
Users can choose what information they share with others – for example, if a user needs to show proof they’re 18, they can do so without showing their name or address.
The device also doesn’t need to be physically handed to somebody, as someone verifying your identity can simply scan a QR code.
Queensland is one of several states, including New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria, to offer its residents the option of a digital driver’s licence.
