Korlantas Confirms Digital SIM Has Equal Legal Standing to Physical SIM
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps (Korlantas) is finalising digital transformation in driving administrative services, including the implementation of digital SIM.
Legally, the public need not worry about the validity of the digital format when driving on roads.
During law enforcement, Wibowo explained that police often encounter various reasons from drivers unable to present driving documents. He identified three main categories.
The first category involves drivers who legally possess a SIM but left the physical copy at home. The digital SIM serves as a concrete solution for this group.
For the other two categories, police will strictly enforce penalties under existing laws.
“Second, not carrying it because they don’t have one. That will definitely be fined. Third, having a SIM but it’s fake — that will result in criminal charges,” Wibowo said.
Despite the equal legal standing, Wibowo urged the public not to completely abandon physical cards. The digital format, accessible via smartphones, is intended as a precautionary measure.
He stated that physical SIM should still be carried, as the digital version is merely a backup.
However, he acknowledged the high dependence of urban populations on smartphones, making the digital SIM an effective emergency solution.
“If in an urgent situation (wallet left behind), you still have your phone. Nowadays, people never forget their phones. We panic if we lose our phones,” he said.
In follow-up to this transition, Korlantas is rapidly aligning understanding among lower-level personnel. This step is crucial to prevent conflicting interpretations during routine checks or roadblocks.
Wibowo said the police are currently synchronising procedures so that officers on the ground will accept drivers presenting only digital SIM.
On another front, this education extends beyond internal police training to the general public. A clear understanding of the new regulation is essential to foster healthy discussions between officers and violators at the scene.
The public is also encouraged to understand digital SIM usage so that, when officers issue fines to drivers without physical SIM but who can show digital SIM, the drivers can defend themselves.