Territory driver licences will cross into the digital era by the end of this year, with legislation introduced into the Legislative Assembly for digital licences.
The optional licences will give Territorians a secure and convenient way to carry and display their licence on their smartphone.
Digital licences will provide real-time updates and stronger safeguards against fraud and misuse at no additional cost.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is delivering the Northern Territory's first-ever digital driver licence, giving Territorians the option to carry their licence on their smartphone by the end of this year.
The Motor Vehicles Amendment (Digital Licences) Bill 2026 will establish the legal framework for eligible Territorians to carry and display a secure digital version of their driver licence on their smartphone.
The digital licence will be entirely optional, with licence holders able to use either the digital version, their physical card, or both.
It will also work without mobile data coverage, ensuring Territorians can still access their licence in regional and remote areas.
Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan said the reform was about security and convenience.
"This is a practical reform that cuts red tape and makes an everyday government service easier to use, while ensuring Territorians remain in control of how they access and share their information," Minister Yan said.
"And when renewing your licence or updating your details, digital licence information can be updated without needing to wait for a new card in the post."
The digital licence is being built to internationally recognised standards, with strong security features designed to protect personal information and reduce fraud.
Minister for Corporate and Digital Development Joshua Burgoyne said the digital licence would deliver greater convenience while maintaining strong safeguards for personal information.
"Our Government is making life easier for everyday Territorians, giving people the choice to have their driver licence safely on their phone, without taking away the physical card," Minister Burgoyne said.
"For most people, their phone is already with them when they leave the house, so soon their driver licence can be too."
Once available, the NT digital driver licence will be able to be used to prove a person's authority to drive, confirm they are over 18 and verify their identity in participating situations.
Some businesses may initially require time to prepare for digital licence verification including bottle shops where scanning licences to purchase alcohol is mandatory.
Territorians will also be encouraged to carry their physical card when travelling interstate or overseas while national cross-border recognition arrangements continue to develop.
