Starting in 2025, Slovaks will have the option to use electronic versions of the two most essential documents: the identity card and the driver's license. This development stems from a draft amendment to the laws on transportation and identification, which the government approved on Wednesday.
"The changes in the laws establish basic legislative prerequisites for creating digital versions in mobile devices, as well as for their verification by control authorities," the Ministry of the Interior explained the rationale behind the legislative adjustment.
Following the cabinet's approval of the proposal, the Minister of the Interior elaborated that these changes will create a platform for the so-called electronic wallet, allowing users to store the two most commonly used documents— the ID card and the driver's license. He mentioned that a technical solution is currently being developed, ensuring that the application will be fully operational by January. Ministry officials assured that it will adhere to all safety standards.
Additionally, the minister emphasized that the introduction of digital versions of both IDs will not alter the usual processes for issuing physical documents. "The prerequisite for creating a digital version of both licenses will first be their issuance in physical form. Legally, digital versions are defined in the draft law as duplicates, meaning they are literal copies of physical documents, which also include any reasons for invalidity or impossibility of use," the ministry stated.
Initially, digital versions of both documents will only be used during police checks, excluding border checks, where international regulations mandate physical documents. "In practice, this will primarily involve using this capability during checks conducted by public order, traffic, and railway police," the ministry explained. Future phases of the project will aim to expand functionalities and accessibility for third parties.
"Already in the first half of the year, we are preparing to expand the electronic wallet to include additional documents, such as a firearms license, and to broaden the use of digital documents," the minister added.
Source: TASR
