September 1, 2026, 8:22 am | Read time: 2 minutes
After long preparations, the digital driver’s license is becoming a reality. The introduction is planned for this year, with integration into a European wallet to follow later.
According to the Federal Motor Transport Authority, the development of the digital driver’s license is in its final phase. KBA President Richard Damm expressed optimism that the new feature can be introduced as planned in the fourth quarter of 2026. However, he did not specify an exact start date.
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The driver’s license is to be integrated into the existing i-Kfz app of the KBA. Since November 2025, the registration certificate Part I can already be stored and digitally presented during a traffic stop. According to Damm, the app is installed on more than two million smartphones.
Plastic card remains valid
The Federal Ministry of Transport also expects an introduction by the end of 2026. However, it is still unclear how the digital driver’s license will be stored and accessed in the app. What is certain is that the existing plastic card will remain. The smartphone version is merely intended as an additional option.
In the future, all individuals with a valid German card driver’s license issued from January 1, 1999, can apply for the digital version. This will require a suitable mobile device and electronic identification. The legal regulation will take effect once the necessary technology is available.
Then the driver’s license moves into the EUDI Wallet
Further details on the timeline were provided by Damm in an interview with “Auto Motor und Sport”. Following the introduction in the i-Kfz app, another step is planned. In early 2027, the driver’s license is also set to be integrated into the European digital wallet, EUDI Wallet.
This wallet will allow various personal credentials to be bundled in the future. In addition to the ID card as a digital twin, documents such as birth certificates, driver’s licenses, diplomas, and travel tickets are also planned. The digital driver’s license would thus be part of a broader European solution for personal documents.