Never Misplace Your Driver's License Again: South Korea's Mobile IC Driver's License

In an era where digital innovation enhances every aspect of our lives, South Korea has introduced the IC Driver's License, or "Integrated Circuit" license, blending convenience with security. This allows both locals and foreign residents to access a digital version of their driving license via a mobile app, ensuring their identification is always just a tap away.

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What is an IC Driver's License?

The IC Driver's License is a digital counterpart to the traditional physical driver's license, accessible through a mobile app. It's available to anyone holding a valid driving license, including foreign nationals residing in South Korea with a foreign registration card

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IC Driver's License Benefits

The digital IC Driver's License is recognized for all government and official transactions within South Korea, serving as a valid form of identification equivalent to the traditional physical license.

Convenience: Carry your driver's license on your smartphone.
Security: Enhanced security features to protect your identity.
Ease of Reissuance: Easily reissue your license onto a new device if needed.

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Requirements and Issuance

Must hold a driving license or obtain a new one.
Must own a smartphone registered in the applicant's name.
Must be subscribed to a mobile communication service for identity verification.
For online applications, if the registered photo is deemed unsuitable for mobile use, a new passport-standard photo (3.5X4.5cm) taken within the last 6 months may be required; two photos are needed for aptitude tests or renewals.

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How to Apply

South Korea offers two pathways to obtaining or reissuing a Digital IC Driver's License: online application and in-person QR issuance. Apply online here (Korean only)

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Supported Devices:

Android: Android OS 7.0 and above, with biometric authentication and NFC support.
iPhone: iPhone 8 and above, iOS 16 and above, with biometric authentication and NFC support.
Unsupported Devices: BlackBerry devices are not supported.

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Pricing

Here are the costs associated with renewing or obtaining a new IC Driver's License, depending on the language option and whether you opt for the mobile IC version:

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FAQs

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What if I lose my phone or get a new one?

IC License Holders: Tag your IC license to the new phone and verify your identity to reissue your mobile license.

Traditional License Holders: Visit a license office for a QR code reissuance.

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How do I know if my license is IC compatible?

Check for the mobile identification logo beneath the photo on your physical license. If absent, apply for an IC license online or at a service center.

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Is the digital license valid for all purposes?

Yes, the IC Driver's License is valid for identification just like a physical license, adhering to legal standards for driving identification in South Korea.

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Is my digital license valid in other countries?

Yes, the Digital IC Driver's License from South Korea is accepted as a valid form of identification in several countries. Currently, the list of countries recognizing this digital format includes:

United States: Accepted in select states for identification purposes.
Australia: Recognized for identification and by certain car rental companies.
Canada: Accepted in specific provinces as valid ID.
Japan: For identification and rental car services.

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Can I use my digital license on my prepaid phone?

No, anonymous prepaid phones are not eligible for the IC mobile app. The phone must be registered under your name.

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Can I use my digital license on my company phone?

Only corporately registered phones that have a designated representative's name attached to it may use the IC mobile app.

Embrace the future of digital identification with South Korea's IC Driver's License, combining innovation with the ease of access.

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Tips for Foreigners Taking the Driver's License Course Test in South Korea

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Cover photo source: Korea Biz Wire

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