The DVLA has started work on a digital version of the driving licence to accompany the current photocard.

Chief executive Oliver Morley tweeted an image, saying “a little prototype of something we’re working on”. The image also showed how the digital version could be stored within Apple’s Wallet app on the iPhone.

Morley later added that there is no timeline for the prototype yet and that it would function as an add-on to the photocard. He also said that security was “our priority” and that the digital licence had been made possible due to last year’s abolition of the paper counterpart.

Last week saw the DfT released its strategy document setting out the directives for the motoring services agencies, including the DVLA, and featuring plans to address digital services.

In response to the prototype, RAC spokesman Simon Williams said: “Plans to take the driving licence digital make a lot of practical sense – after all the paper-based counterpart licence and tax disc were both phased out, albeit with a few issues. It is not going to mean the photocard licence disappears anytime soon though. Drivers will still need to be able to prove their identity with a physical card in the event of their smartphone battery failing.

“A natural fear will be that anything digital is more open to interference and hacking, so the security of drivers’ identities must be at the top of the DVLA’s list as they develop this tool.”