Driving licences could be on phones by 2018

Digital service will let motorists view a 'representation' of their licence, but DVLA stresses it will not replace plastic licence

Motorists could be allowed to have their driving licence on their phones by 2018, according to the government agency developing the plans.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) said a test system would be in place by September this year and that it would develop a "quick, easy and secure" service between April and March 2018. It wants the digital service to allow people to share and validate information with "trusted" third parties, although stressed that the new system will not replace existing plastic licences.