Digital Driver's Licenses to Replace Paper Versions in Russia Within Three Years

Russia is preparing to phase out traditional paper-based driver's licenses and vehicle registration certificates, fully embracing digital alternatives by 2028.

Russia is moving rapidly toward digitizing transportation documents. According to the state-run TASS news agency, 

Currently, drivers can access digital copies of these documents through the 'Gosuslugi.Auto' mobile app, but they are not yet recognized as legal substitutes. Legislation is expected to change, making the electronic format fully valid alongside traditional paperwork.

The traffic authority has been steadily expanding digital services. Through the same app, users can already create legally binding car sale agreements, a move aimed at reducing fraud risks. In the future, most services, including vehicle registration and document processing, are expected to go fully online, eliminating the need to visit physical government offices.

According to Mikhail Chernikov, head of the State Traffic Inspectorate, more than 14 million Russians have already used the 'Gosuslugi.Auto' platform. That number is projected to grow significantly once the law grants electronic documents full legal status.

Experts say the digital shift in Russia's transport sector promises to cut bureaucracy, improve access to services, and curb document forgery.