Gemalto drives ahead with French e-driving license win

Global digital security player, Gemalto, has announced it is delivering the Sealys electronic driving license to Imprimerie Nationale, the French public printing office, as part of a multi-year contract. The company says its secure embedded software will allow the polycarbonate driving license incorporating a microprocessor to be read and verified via a contactless reader. Imprimerie Nationale also selected Gemalto’s Coesys Issuance solution to personalize the new eDocument in-house. The new French electronic driving license is replacing the traditional paper document, helping to combat fraud whilst maintaining robust protection of personal information. According to reports, an estimated 5 to 10% counterfeit driving licenses are believed to be in circulation in France. Imprimerie Nationale is responsible for designing the system, operating the production and personalization of the cards, and chose Gemalto as supplier of electronic ID subsystems. The Sealys e-driving license securely stores the personal details printed on the permit, allowing the police to quickly and efficiently authenticate the identity of the license holder. Over time, it offers the potential to transform the new French driving license into a multi-application smart card that can incorporate additional permit-related services, such as tracking of driving permits and insurance, tax and vehicle certification details. In addition, it could be used to enable secure access to rental or pool vehicles via fully automated terminals, according to Gemalto.