Can I leave the original driver's license at home if I have an electronic one?
3 Answers
Yes. Here is relevant information about electronic driver's licenses: Introduction: The electronic driver's license, commonly known as "e-license", serves as a supplement to physical licenses. When you don't carry the physical license, you can present the electronic version for roadside checks and other verifications. Latest technology: According to a People's Daily report from Moscow on August 23, 2018, the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs is developing a new generation of microchip-based electronic driver's licenses and vehicle registration certificates. The new version will feature markings in three languages: Russian, English, and French. In addition to microchips, the new generation of licenses will have enhanced anti-counterfeiting measures, with laser security layers on both the upper and lower surfaces of the document.
I've been driving for over ten years and have seen the increasing popularity of electronic driver's licenses. To be honest, having an electronic version is really convenient—just a quick scan with your phone to check, so I usually don't carry the physical one. But once, I was pulled over on the highway, and my phone happened to be dead. Luckily, I had the physical license with me and avoided a fine. The electronic driver's license is displayed on the Traffic Management 12123 app and is nationally recognized as a substitute for the physical version. However, some local police might not be familiar with the process, or their equipment might malfunction, which can cause big trouble. My advice is to still carry a physical copy as a backup, especially when traveling long distances, since phones can easily run into issues like weak signals or damage. Safety first—don't find it troublesome. Overall, technology is a good thing, but there might be some hiccups during the transition period. It never hurts to have a backup plan.
Hey, after playing with all sorts of tech gadgets over the years, I think the electronic driver's license is super cool! Just log in on the 12123 APP and you're good to go—scan a QR code and the police can verify your identity instantly, no need to fumble for your wallet. In most urban scenarios, the electronic version is fully legal and efficient, equivalent to the original document. However, occasionally in mountainous areas with poor signal, the APP might not open, or at checkpoints with outdated equipment, it could be mistakenly deemed invalid. I recommend everyone use the electronic version—it's encrypted, secure, and eco-friendly—but make sure your phone is fully charged and you have a power bank handy before heading out. In the long run, society is going fully digital, so getting used to new ways is great; don’t rely too much on paper. Just understand the official platform rules. If anything happens, you can quickly prove your identity.
