Georgia State Patrol Accepts Digital Driver's Licenses

The Georgia State Patrol began accepting digital driver's licenses during traffic stops on Sunday. The Georgia Department of Public Safety confirmed that the policy applies to interactions with Commercial Vehicle Enforcement officers and Capitol Police officers, including during crash investigations.

The department stated that drivers should inform the officer of their intent to use a digital license. The driver then holds their phone near the officer's ID reader without handing over the device. Before sharing data, the driver reviews the requested information and uses authentication methods such as facial recognition.

Officers receive the same information they would obtain from a physical ID, with no additional data shared. The department noted that officers will not directly request a digital license. Motorists retain the option to present a physical license or state ID at any time.

Digital identification remains optional. The department recommends that drivers continue to carry a physical license or state ID because other law enforcement agencies may not yet accept the digital version.

The policy follows changes under House Bill 296, which allows drivers to present a license in an approved electronic format. Law enforcement agencies statewide must have equipment capable of verifying digital licenses by July 1, 2027.

The Georgia Department of Driver Services said digital licenses can also be used at participating retailers. Retailers may choose whether to accept the digital format.