The integration of the France Identité app with SNCF ticket control for TGV and Intercités trains marks a new era of digital travel solutions. Starting February 13, 2024, passengers using the France Identité app can now seamlessly verify their identity and travel tickets with just one QR code.
This development arrives just one year after the official launch of the France Identité app—an initiative founded by France Titres and operated collaboratively with SNCF Voyageurs. The goal of this new functionality is to simplify the travel experience for passengers, who no longer need to present multiple documents during ticket inspections.
The new feature is available to all passengers using TGV INOUI and Intercités services who have the France Identité application installed. Travelers can generate a secure QR code within the app, which contains their name, first name, and date of birth, allowing ticket controllers to verify both their identity and travel authorization quickly.
Anne-Gaëlle Baudouin, the director-general of France Titres, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, "L’utilisation de l’application France Identité à bord des trains, rendue possible grâce à notre collaboration avec SNCF Voyageurs, marque une étape majeure de la simplification des démarches des citoyens." This quote captures the essence of the initiative, which aims to streamline public services for citizens.
The process is remarkably straightforward. A user must click on their identity card within the app. This action reveals the QR code associated with their identity, which the train controller can scan. This modern method enhances security measures significantly since only necessary details are transmitted, leaving out other sensitive information, such as the identity card number or address.
Florent Tournois, project director of France Identité Numérique, explains the usability of the procedure: "On va sur l'application France Identité, on clique sur la carte d'identité, et en retournant la carte, on découvre le QR code qui est associé à l'identité." This transition to digital solutions reflects wider trends across various sectors seeking innovative ways to improve user experience.
The launch has been met with enthusiasm, especially from regular travelers who appreciate the ease of combining their identity verification with ticket control. SNCF has recognized this demand and aims to address concerns around security and convenience. Marco, an onboard manager for SNCF, remarked, "C'est vrai que là, on n'a aucun doute. Lorsqu'on voit les identités sur France Identité, on a bien une photo de la personne que l'on a en face de nous," highlighting the reduction of fraud risks this integration could bring.
Already, over 1.5 million users have adopted the France Identité app, which allows citizens to store their digital identity documents securely on their smartphones. This functionality is currently available for those who possess the new Carte Bleue identity card issued since 2021. There is significant potential for this initiative to expand to regional and international services, promoting even more seamless travel experiences.
Importantly, the France Identité app operates without requiring data connectivity, making it reliable even during journeys when network coverage is limited. This feature supports greater accessibility for all users, enhancing the app's practicality.
Looking forward, SNCF plans to include Ouigo services and other train categories under this digital ticketing system, aiming to establish it as the standard for train travel across France. For now, travelers are encouraged to take advantage of the streamlined process, particularly as feedback continues to steer enhancements to the digital service.
Feedback from passengers on the new system has been mixed but leaned toward the positive side, as many travelers appreciate the convenience it provides. One passenger stated, "Simplifier la gestion des billets et des différentes applications, ça peut être intéressant clairement," indicating the app's potential to ease the travel burden.
Digital transformation is reshaping how we experience everyday tasks, and this innovation reflects broader efforts within public services to modernize and adapt to technology's growing role in our daily lives. With initiatives like these, public transport is set to become not just more efficient, but more user-friendly and secure as well.