Digital Driver’s License: How to Download App & Carry It on Mobile

Carrying your driver's license is now more convenient with the Digital Learner’s License. 

You can securely access and store your official learner’s permit on your smartphone. 

This guide explains how to download the app, set it up, and use it wherever digital IDs are accepted.

What Is a Digital Driver’s License?

A digital driver’s license is an official electronic version of your physical driving license stored on your smartphone. 

It holds the same legal status and can be used for identification, traffic stops, and age verification.

Who Can Use It?

Not everyone is eligible to use the digital driver’s license. You need to meet a few basic requirements before you can register and use it.

Who Can Use It?

• You have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit.
• You are a resident of the issuing region or country.
• You own a compatible smartphone (running either Android or iOS).
• You can complete identity verification through the app.
• You agree to the app’s terms and privacy policy.

How to Download the App

Here’s how to get the app and start using your Digital Driver’s License:

1. Search for the official digital license app in the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Verify that the developer is the government agency responsible for issuing licenses.
3. Check reviews and ratings to confirm it's legitimate and well-reviewed.
4. Tap "Download" or "Install" to add the app to your device.
5. Launch the app once the installation is complete to begin registration.

Steps to Register Your Digital License

Before you can use your digital license, you need to activate it through the app. 

Ensure your physical CNH was issued after May 2017 and features a QR code on the back.

• Step 1: Download and open the Carteira Digital de Trânsito (CDT) app.
• Step 2: Log in using your Gov.br account (you can create one if you don't already have one).
• Step 3: Scan the QR code on the back of your physical CNH using your phone’s camera.
• Step 4: Complete the facial recognition process using the app’s selfie verification.
• Step 5: Confirm your ZIP code (CEP) is registered with DETRAN.
• Step 6 (Optional): To add your vehicle document (CRLV), enter your Renavam number and security code from your CRV.

What Is the Gov.br Account and Why Do You Need It

It’s a secure digital ID provided by the Brazilian government that gives you access to online public services, including your digital driver’s license.

You need it for the following reasons:

• To log in to the Carteira Digital de Trânsito (CDT) app
• To verify your identity and link your CNH to the app
• To access and manage your license and vehicle documents securely
• To reset your access if you change phones or forget your PIN
• To contact official support or services linked to your license

Where You Can Use It

Here’s where you can use your digital driver’s license in Brazil once it's activated:

• Traffic stops and police checks: Accepted by authorities as a valid ID on your phone.
• Age verification: Use for buying alcohol, entering age-restricted venues, or confirming your age as needed.
• Boarding domestic flights: Accepted by most Brazilian airlines and airport security.
• Vehicle rental and ride-sharing services: Shows your license when prompted during rentals or bookings.
• Identification at services: Use it at banks, post offices, government offices, and other places that accept digital IDs.

Safety and Privacy Tips

Keeping your digital driver’s license safe is just as important as protecting your physical one. 

Follow these tips to secure your data and prevent misuse.

• Use phone lock features: Enable PIN, fingerprint, or face unlock for extra protection.
• Do not share screenshots or license data: Never send images of your license via messaging apps or email.
• Log out if needed: If you lose your phone or change devices, log out of the app remotely via your Gov.br account.
• Keep the app updated: Always install the latest version to receive security fixes.
• Avoid public Wi-Fi when registering: Use a secure internet connection to protect your data.

What to Do If It Doesn’t Work

If your digital driver’s license isn’t working correctly, don’t panic. There are a few simple actions you can take to fix the issue.

• Restart the app or your phone: Minor glitches often resolve with a reboot.
• Check your internet connection: Ensure you're connected to a stable Wi-Fi network or mobile data.
• Update the app: Go to your app store and install the latest version.
• Try logging out and then logging back in: This can refresh your session and resolve any errors.
• Contact support: Use the help section in the app or access support through your Gov.br account.
• Use your physical CNH as backup: Always keep your printed license available just in case.

Offline Access to Your Digital License

You don’t always need internet access to show your digital driver’s license. The app offers offline functionality for most common situations.

• Your license is stored locally on your phone after setup.
• You can show it during traffic stops even without Wi-Fi or mobile data.
• The QR code and visual details remain accessible offline.
• Some features, such as updates and syncing, still require an internet connection.
• Always open the app at least once with an internet connection after updates to refresh the data.

How to Renew Your Digital Driver’s License

Before renewing, ensure that you've completed any required medical exams and paid the applicable renewal fees through your DETRAN.

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your physical driver's license is close to expiring and that you're eligible for renewal.
2. Complete Medical Exam: Take the required medical exam if your license type or age group demands it.
3. Request Online Renewal: Visit your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT) or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website and apply for renewal.
4. Pay the Fee: Complete the payment for the renewal process through the DETRAN portal.
5. Wait for Processing: DETRAN usually updates your license status within a few business days.
6. Update the App: Open the Carteira Digital de Trânsito app and log in to refresh your CNH data.
7. Download Renewed License: Once updated, your new digital license will be ready to use in the app.

The Bottomline

The Digital Driver’s License makes it easier to carry, access, and manage your license from your smartphone. 

It’s secure, convenient, and accepted across Brazil for everyday use. 

Download the Carteira Digital de Trânsito app today to activate your Digital Driver’s License and stay prepared wherever you go.