The introduction of the digital driver’s license marked a significant milestone in Ecuador’s efforts to modernize its licensing system.

Implemented in January 2021, Ecuador’s digital driver’s license is now provided free of charge by the National Transit Agency (ANT) through its 56 agencies across the country. Its legal standing is equivalent to that of a physical driver’s license. Notably, the digital license incorporates robust security features, enabling competent traffic control personnel to validate it effectively.

The digital driver’s license, introduced in collaboration between the Ministry of Telecommunications, the National Transit Agency (ANT), and the National Directorate of Public Data Registration (Dinarpad), possesses legal parity with its physical counterpart, as stipulated by the Law on Electronic Commerce, Signatures, and Data Messages, specifically in articles 44 and 51. This equivalence empowers drivers to present their digital license to traffic agents via their mobile devices when required.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of obtaining your digital driver’s license, explore its features, and answer frequently asked questions to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Obtaining your digital driver’s license

To embark on your journey towards acquiring a digital driver’s license, you need to fulfill a few prerequisites:

Have a physical driver’s license: To be eligible for a digital driver’s license, you must already possess a physical driver’s license issued in compliance with ANT regulations.

Personal email account: You will need a personal email account for communication and registration purposes.

Mobile device with internet access: Ensure that you have a mobile device with internet access to download the Gob.ec application, which will be your gateway to the digital driver’s license world.

As a mandatory step, you must register your data in person at the ANT modules before proceeding with the digital license application.

Steps to Obtain Your Digital Driver’s License

Once you have met the prerequisites, follow these steps to obtain your digital driver’s license:

1. Download the Gob.ec application: Visit the Android, iOS, or Huawei APPGallery stores to download and install the Gob.ec application.
2. Log in: Upon opening the application, you will need to log in. If you haven’t registered yet, you can choose one of the following registration options:

a) Electronic Signature: Obtain an electronic signature by visiting https://bit.ly/sau-ec from a computer or laptop.

b) Video Call: The application will assign you an agent who will verify your identity through a video call and send a registration link to your email for creating your password.

c) In-Person Registration: Visit any National Transit Agency window across the country and request registration in the Single Authentication System (SAU).

Validation through Gob.ec:

Your digital driver’s license is only valid when viewed through the Gob.ec application. To validate it:

1. Select “Verify QR” Option: In the Gob.ec application, select the “Verify QR” option.
2. Scan the QR Code: Scan the QR code on your digital license for verification.
3. Enter PIN: Enter the PIN generated in the license application to complete the verification process.

Common questions about the digital license

Let’s address some of the frequently asked questions about the digital driver’s license in Ecuador:

1. Can you print or take a screenshot of the QR code for validation?

No, the verification system only accepts the QR code found within the Gob.ec application.

2. What is the validity period of the digital license?

The digital license holds the same validity as the physical license, ensuring that it remains legally sound throughout its duration.

3. Can the license be renewed through the Gob.ec application?

The renewal procedure for the license must be completed through regular channels in advance.

4. Do you need internet access to enter the Gob.ec application?

Yes, you require internet access to enter the Gob.ec application for the first time. However, once accessed, you can later consult it offline.

5. Does the digital license incur any additional costs?

No, this digital license offers the same information and benefits as the physical document, with no additional costs involved.

The success of the digital driver’s license

As of September 2023, the ANT reported that over one million digital licenses have been generated, marking a significant milestone in the country’s quest for innovation and efficiency in its transportation system.

This digital transformation not only enhances the convenience and accessibility of driver’s licenses but also aligns Ecuador with the global trend towards digitization and electronic documentation. With its easy-to-follow process and robust security features, the digital driver’s license is set to become an integral part of every driver’s life in Ecuador.

One of the most advantageous aspects of the digital license is its parallel validity with the physical license. This means that the digital version enjoys the same duration of legal effectiveness. However, it’s worth noting that the renewal process for a digital license must still adhere to the regular procedure.

While internet access is imperative for the initial entry into the Gob.ec application, subsequent consultations can be conducted offline. Importantly, this digital license is provided without any additional cost, encompassing all the pertinent information featured on its physical counterpart. The seamless integration of modern technology into Ecuador’s licensing system not only facilitates convenience for drivers but also underscores the country’s commitment to technological progress and innovation in governance.