The leadership of Russia’s traffic oversight body has announced a staged move toward digitizing driver credentials, with the initial rights in test mode able to be issued electronically starting October 1. This shift marks a notable step in how drivers will interact with official permissions, aligning with broader efforts to modernize public services and reduce the reliance on physical documents. Mikhail Chernikov, who heads the traffic police, underscored that the move is being coordinated with the Ministry of Digital Development to ensure a smooth rollout and to set clear milestones for broader adoption. The plan reflects a broader governmental strategy to leverage digital platforms for administrative processes, improve accessibility, and streamline verification procedures for motorists. (Source: RIA Novosti)
Officials have also outlined a timeline aiming to finalize the transition to a fully electronic driver’s license by the end of the year. This broader objective involves not only creating a secure digital credential but also aligning related regulations, enforcement practices, and service delivery channels with the new model. The collaboration between the traffic authority and the digital development ministry signals an integrated approach to public sector modernization, one that seeks to preserve the integrity of licensing while embracing the convenience and resilience of electronic records. The focus remains on ensuring that law enforcement and licensing agencies have reliable tools to verify identities, permissions, and driving privileges in real time. (Source: RIA Novosti)
From October 1, the authorities intend to introduce an electronic service that enables motorists to present a digital driver’s license within the State Services Auto mobile application. This move is described as an experimental service that will allow users to access their credentials via a secure digital interface, potentially reducing the need to carry a physical card on a daily basis. The test phase will help identify any operational gaps and user experience issues, guiding refinements before a wider deployment. The digital license is expected to integrate with existing verification systems, ensuring interoperability across regional and federal levels. (Source: RIA Novosti)
Looking ahead, officials acknowledge that eliminating paper rights entirely will require changes to traffic regulations and enforcement practices, along with robust safeguards against fraud and data misuse. The necessary rule amendments are being drafted to accommodate electronic licensing as the standard, with pilots designed to validate workflow, authentication methods, and cross-check capabilities for police officers and licensing authorities. The transition also raises considerations for drivers, who will need to understand how to manage digital documents, update personal information, and access support if issues arise. In essence, the shift toward electronic credentials is framed as a modernization initiative that could simplify compliance for drivers while strengthening the credibility and efficiency of the licensing system. (Source: RIA Novosti)