Starting from October 1, drivers in Russia will have the option to present an electronic driver’s license. An expert from the European Legal Service, Dmitry Bezdelin, explained to the Prime agency how to obtain these licenses and whether carrying a plastic card remains required.
Electronic rights can be issued through the Gosuslugi Avto mobile app, which displays as a personal QR code. An inspector can verify the rights using a tablet on the spot.
Importantly, this does not immediately replace the plastic driver’s license. The new system is still in the experimental stage and has not been formally codified into law. The current SDA rule book requires drivers to carry a traditional license and registration certificates for verification. If a driver fails to present these documents, a fine of 500 rubles may be issued.
Work is also underway to introduce an electronic OSAGO policy in QR code form, which would be usable in the same way as the driver’s license code.
Other documents
The pilot programs began with the vehicle registration certificate (STS), with some motorists already showing these records to inspectors via the Auto State Services platform in electronic form. The pilot for STS was deemed a success, paving the way for digitizing additional documents in the future.
Experts stress that the shift toward digitization is incremental. While drivers can access a growing set of documents electronically, the legal framework for full replacement of paper forms is still being settled. In practical terms, motorists should be prepared to carry the physical license while the new digital system continues to expand and be validated across regions. The digital options are designed to complement, not immediately supplant, the traditional documents during the transition.
From a compliance perspective, authorities emphasize that digital licenses and related documents should be treated as legitimate representations of the same information. Drivers are advised to ensure their Gosuslugi Avto profile is up to date and their device is able to display a scannable QR code during roadside checks. The approach aims to streamline verification while preserving a clear, verifiable record of the driver’s credentials. The broader goal is to modernize document management without disrupting everyday road safety or enforcement practices. The ongoing experiments will determine how quickly other documents move to digital formats and what safeguards will be put in place to protect users’ data. The transition remains a work in progress, with continuous assessment and adjustments anticipated as the system evolves.
All updates and changes will be reported by official channels as the pilot progresses, offering drivers a clearer picture of when and how electronic documents may become standard practice. The initiative reflects a broader push toward digitization in government services, aiming to reduce paperwork while maintaining robust verification and accountability. Citations: European Legal Service commentary on the pilot and regulatory status.