The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has implemented its services, allowing drivers to carry their drivers’ license in digital format using the miDGT app . However, carrying a digital license has its problems.
If you don’t have a physical license, problems can arise , especially if you rely on your mobile phone as your only resource , which can fail at the intersections where you’re forced to use it. What does it feel like in such a situation? From the author’s perspective, I’ll try to explain.
The digital driver’s license: format and validity limits for its use
As we mentioned, the miDGT app allows users to access a digital version of their driver’s license, which is just as valid as a physical document for identifying themselves during traffic checks, boarding a domestic flight, or even participating in elections .
To use it, users had to register in the app and link their personal data to the DGT’s existing public files.
Despite its app, miDGT has been constantly criticized for its inconsistency. Since its last update four years ago, a significant number of users have been unable to use it due to connection issues, errors opening the app, etc. In 2024, a number of users were faced with an error message on the screen, called COD-O101 , after waiting for a long time .
These types of errors can put drivers in a difficult situation if they’re asked for their driver’s license and have to wait for the application to fail. Although the digital license in question is already legally valid, not having immediate access to it is considered the same as not having access to it.
Common problems with the miDGT application
The miDGT mobile app, available in the Apple Store and Google Play , also fails to capture the user’s attention. With an average rating of one star in both formats , we find this summarizing the unfavorable opinion held by many drivers, who have complained about its poor performance. Below are some common situations in which relying exclusively on the digital license can be a problem.
- Areas without coverage: If you are in an area without internet access, the app will not be able to connect to the DGT database, leaving your digital card inaccessible.
- Low battery: If your phone runs out of battery, you won’t be able to present your license to the officer. This can happen at an inconvenient time, such as during a routine checkpoint.
Penalties for not having a driver’s license
If a traffic officer stops you and you can’t present your license, whether it was a physical copy or due to an error in the miDGT app, you’ll be considered a minor infraction, punishable by a fine of 60 euros. The positive side of the problem is that the violation doesn’t result in the loss of license points . You can also benefit from a 50% discount if you pay promptly, but failure to present your license is not legally an excuse.
If you don’t want to be fined and have no problems, the DGT recommends that you always carry your physical license . This way, you can drive without having to worry about whether technology is playing tricks on you or not, and errors are human.
The digital license is a tool, but it’s not an irrefutable one . Yes, the idea of forgetting the plastic may seem tempting, but a physical license is always the best excuse to avoid being fined and not having problems.
