A new database will give police patrols in New South Wales direct access to driver's licence images.

The equipment will be installed in police cars in a joint initiative with the Roads and Traffic Authority.

Police Minister Mike Gallacher says the technology will be used to identify people and verify they have a valid licence.

"Highway patrol officers will have the ability to instantaneously receive on the computer that is inside that car, that mobile data terminal, photographic evidence of a drivers license holder in New South Wales," Mr Gallacher said.