I'll tell you something: I've always been the type of person who forgets their driver's license at home.
I've lost count of the number of times I've gone out in my car and only realized I didn't have my driver's license when it was too late.
So, if this is something you're going through, I have great news: you can have your driver's license directly on your cell phone!
When I found out that there was an official way to get a digital driver's license, I ran to try it out.
And look, it was one of the best things I've ever done. Now, it doesn't matter if I forget my physical wallet, because my driver's license is always with me on my cell phone.
If you don't use it yet, I'll tell you how it works and which are the best apps for it.
How did I get my driver's license on my cell phone?
First of all, your driver's license needs to have that QR Code on the back. If yours does, the process is very simple and quick.
I downloaded the right app, registered and scanned the CNH QR Code.
Then, the app asked for facial recognition (yes, just like unlocking your phone with your face!) and that was it, my wallet was already scanned.
In less than 10 minutes, I could access my document directly from my cell phone.
Since then, I have never again experienced the despair of realizing that I forgot my wallet when I was already driving.
And the best part: there is no risk of losing or damaging the physical document.
I tested three apps to get a digital driver’s license – and I’ll tell you which one is worth it!
To make sure I was using the best option, I tested three different apps. Each one has its advantages, so I'll tell you about my experience with each one.
1. Digital Transit Card (CDT)
This one is the official government one and it was the first one I tested.
In addition to the digital CNH, it also allows you to access the vehicle document and receive notices about fines and license expiration.
- My experience: Simple registration, easy facial recognition and documents available immediately. No bureaucracy!
- Negative point: The app sometimes takes a while to load, especially if the internet is not good.
2. My DMV
The DMV in some states has its own application that also allows you to access the digital CNH.
In addition, it offers other services, such as checking fines, scheduling exams and issuing bills.
- My experience: I found it interesting because it allows you to resolve other issues besides the digital CNH. If you like to resolve everything in one place, it might be a good option.
- Negative point: Not all states have this functionality, so it may not work in yours yet.
3. ID.GOV.BR
This app is a little different from the others. It is more of a document centralizer and allows you to access various government services, including the digital CNH.
- My experience: If you already use Gov.br for other things, it might be interesting to have your CNH there too.
- Negative point: The app is not very intuitive for those who just want a driver's license, so it can be a bit confusing at first.
Which app to choose?
First of all, if you want the best and most direct option, the Digital Transit Wallet is the best choice. It is official, reliable and works very well.
If you like to resolve everything through your state's DMV, Meu Detran may be interesting (if your state offers the option, of course).
Now, if you already use ID.GOV.BR for other functions and want to keep everything in one place, it may be an alternative. However, if your focus is only on your driver's license, it may not be as practical.
Is it worth having a digital driver's license?
For me, it's worth a lot! I never had to run back home again because I forgot my wallet.
In addition, the app notifies you when your driver's license is about to expire, which saved me from getting a fine for something stupid.
So, if you haven't activated yours yet, give it a try and let me know! I bet that once you start using it, you'll never want to know about the physical version again.
I managed to download it on my Android and is also available for iOS.