The driver’s license app starts in April: drivers have to know that

It used to be an arc made of cardboard, then a plastic card, and now the driver’s license becomes the app. A test phase starts in April. Then the app does not replace the physical driver’s license, it complements it and is said to be the driver’s license replacement in traffic controls. So you can leave the plastic card at home. The app was jointly developed by the Federal Ministry of Transport, the Federal Motor Transport Authority and the Federal Printing. But be careful that you also install the correct application in April: there are hundreds of apps with the word “driver’s license” in the name. With the original you can demonstrate driving authorization, but initially only in Germany – whether it is recognized in the EU or even outside the EU is currently unclear.

However, downloading and installing is not sufficient. You have to verify your identity. And that only works if you have previously activated the oath function of your ID card. So you must have a modern ID card and have actually activated the function. This is also possible afterwards if you have missed this step when receiving the ID. The whole thing only works if you are German citizens and have a German driver’s license.

The app was announced in 2021. A first version was withdrawn due to errors. Now a field test with a limited number of participants should start in a new attempt in April. One cannot speak of a big breakthrough in view of the history. Nevertheless, you should install the tool as soon as it is available. The advantage of the app is obvious. For most, the smartphone is an indispensable companion, they always have it with you anyway. If you want to continue to carry the plastic card with you, you now have a duplicate in case you forgot the wallet and the plastic card.

And of course you can leave the “original” at home. Then you can neither lose nor can it be stolen to you. In any case, it can have advantages not to have the card with you. Then the driver’s license cannot be collapsed on the street in the event of a case. This can also be arranged later in severe traffic offenses, but then you can get legally advised and represented in the procedure.

If you use the app, you are also responsible for the fact that the smartphone and app also work during a check and you can show the driving license. In practice, however, it is not a very big drama if you don’t have the card with you during a check. Whether service providers such as rental car companies will accept the app will be shown in the future. The app will not replace the plastic card for the foreseeable future. If only because the legislature cannot impose a smartphone compulsory.