GeorgiaAlthough a new legislation in Georgia permits drivers to show a digital copy of their driver’s license at a traffic stop, most departments won’t be able to verify it for at least another two years, according to law enforcement authorities throughout the state.
Digital Licenses Are Legal But Physical Cards Still Required
With the passage of House Bill 296 on July 1, 2025, digital driver’s licenses are now formally accepted as legitimate forms of identity. When stopped, drivers in Georgia are now permitted to show their license on a smartphone or other wireless device.
The problem is that the law only compels police officers who possess the necessary scanning equipment to accept a digital license. Currently, the majority of departments do not.
Police Departments Have Until 2027 to Catch Up
The law gives local sheriff’s offices and police departments until July 1, 2027, to implement the technology required to validate digital licenses.
This results in a two-year transition period during which drivers can experience uneven enforcement. Officers are nevertheless legally permitted to request a physical driver’s license in places where they do not have scanners, and failing to do so may result in a citation.
According to the article, the Georgia Department of Public Safety is just starting to deploy the technology. Drivers are advised to have both digital and hard copies on hand until that time.
What Happens If You re Pulled Over
Under the new law, the following is what to anticipate during a traffic stop:
-
If the officer has the tech:
They are legally required to accept a valid digital license on your smartphone. -
If the officer doesn t:
They can still
ask for your physical license
, and you must comply.
Until the technology is widely used, the Georgia Department of Public Safety strongly recommends all drivers to keep carrying their physical card.
Don t Ditch the Wallet Yet
Despite Georgia’s official adoption of digital identity, the system won’t be completely functional until mid-2027. Drivers should consider digital licenses a convenient backup rather than a substitute until that time.
Have you attempted to provide a Georgia police officer with your digital license? Did they request your actual card or did they accept it? Tell us about yourself atsaludastandard-sentinel.com.
