UK Government to introduce digital ID cards for veterans, a trial for a future full scheme

The UK government is launching digital ID cards for armed forces veterans as a pilot for a broader mandatory digital ID scheme. Veterans can download the new digital version of the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card via a government app starting today. This option is designed to simplify access to support services for approximately 1.8 million eligible veterans.

Ian Murray, minister for digital government, emphasized that the rollout serves as a proof of concept for public digital credentials, addressing concerns about security. Veterans can use the card to verify their status without needing to show sensitive personal data. While the card is optional, there are hopes that more veterans will sign up to access benefits. The initiative accompanies Prime Minister Starmer's controversial plans for wider compulsory ID cards in the UK.