RTO Update

Smart Card DL & RC: The
"One Nation, One Card" Rollout

Dec 25, 2025 5 min read

In late 2025, several states led by Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh have officially transitioned to a high-security, Next-Generation Smart Card system for both Driving Licenses (DL) and Vehicle Registration Certificates (RC). This update marks the end of the old laminated paper era.

MoRTH's Standard

The Ministry has standardized the look and feel across India. These new cards are designed to be tamper-proof and durable for 10–15 years.

1 Advanced Material: Polycarbonate

The 2025-edition cards have moved away from PVC to Polycarbonate.

  • Laser Engraving: Text is engraved into the card layers, making it impossible to alter without destroying the card. No more fading ink.
  • Extreme Durability: Resistant to water, heat, and bending—solving the major complaint of "cracked" laminated cards.

2 The 64 KB Chip & QR Code Duo

Each new card issued from December 2025 carries dual digital storage:

64 KB Microchip

Stores biometric data and Challan History. Traffic police can instantly view your violations by inserting the card into a reader.

Encrypted QR Code

Allows for "offline" verification. Police can scan it in low-network areas to verify insurance/pollution status from the Vahan database.

3 Centralized Printing & Timeline

States have set up Centralized Printing Hubs to eliminate backlogs.

  • Speed: Up to 16,000 cards printed per day per hub.
  • Delivery: Dispatched via Speed Post. Major cities receiving cards within 48 to 72 hours of approval.

Do You Need to Switch?

Existing Holders: No immediate switch required. Your old valid license remains valid until expiry.

Automatic Issuance: You will get the new Smart Card automatically if you:

  • Apply for a New DL or RC.
  • Renew an existing document.
  • Request a Duplicate or Change of Address.

Feature Comparison

Feature Old Card (Pre-2025) New Smart Card (Dec '25)
Material Laminated Paper / PVC High-Grade Polycarbonate
Security Minimal Chip + QR + Laser Engraving
Verification Manual/Online Only Real-time Chip + Offline QR
Fee Varied ₹200 (Nationwide Standard)

Print a Temporary Backup?

While waiting for your new Smart Card, convert your digital mParivahan DL/RC into a high-quality verifiable PVC card.

Create PVC DL/RC