Starting at the end of March, New Zealanders will be able to use a government mobile app to access their digital ID for driving and buying alcohol, removing the need to carry a physical photo ID in certain situations.

The newly updated app will include a digital wallet where users can securely store and present government-issued credentials, including driver’s licenses and age verification cards. Once legislation is updated, these digital credentials will carry the same legal weight as physical IDs in multiple everyday situations, such as purchasing alcohol, renting vehicles, and proving identity.

Currently, New Zealand law requires individuals to carry a physical driver’s license when operating a vehicle and to present a physical photo ID when purchasing alcohol. The app will simplify this process by allowing verified digital credentials to be displayed at bars, supermarkets, and even during police checks, pending the completion of legal changes.

The rollout of the digital ID is part of a broader initiative to modernize access to government services and reduce duplication. The new system will allow all government agencies to issue digital credentials directly to users’ wallets, creating a streamlined, “all-of-government” approach that aims to improve efficiency and convenience for citizens.

Hospitality venues are set to be among the first organizations to accept digital credentials for age verification, providing a faster, secure way to confirm customers’ eligibility without handling physical cards. Future updates to the app are expected to expand its functionality, including secure messaging features that will allow users to receive important notifications from government agencies, such as vehicle registration reminders or travel updates, directly on their phones.

The government app, launched last December, continues to operate on a voluntary basis. Traditional channels for accessing services will remain available for those who prefer not to use digital credentials.

This digital ID initiative represents a significant step toward modernizing everyday transactions in New Zealand, offering citizens a convenient and secure alternative to physical identification, while aligning with broader efforts to integrate technology into public services.