Thiruvananthapuram : The Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) of Kerala has announced a major decision to halt the issuance of printed Driving License (DL) and Registration Certificate (RC) cards, transitioning fully to digital versions. This move is aimed at modernizing services and making them more efficient for both applicants and the department.
The decision comes partly in response to delays in the printing process caused by Rs 15 crore dues owed to Indian Telephone Industries (ITI) Limited, the agency responsible for printing the cards. However, MVD officials stress that the primary reason for the shift is to streamline services, reduce costs, and enhance the convenience for users.
"This delay in printing due to the pending dues is one of the factors, but it is unnecessary to continue spending so much on printing when a fully digital system offers more benefits. The main goal is to make the process swifter and easier for everyone," said an MVD official.
The transition to digital DL and RC services will take place in two phases. First, the printing of DLs will be stopped, followed by the cessation of RC card printing.
Key Advantages of Digital DL and RC are Faster Issuance: Applicants can download their DLs the same day they pass the driving test, rather than waiting for a printed card.
Efficient Verification: The digital DLs can be shown through DigiLocker during inspections, where officers can scan the QR code to instantly verify the status of the license, whether active, suspended, or canceled--something physical cards cannot provide.
No Risk of Losing Cards: Digital copies can be shared with officials without the risk of being lost or damaged. Optional Physical Copy: Those preferring a printed version can still download and print a copy with a QR code. The MVD is in talks with Akshaya centers to facilitate printing for citizens.
Digital Convenience: Much like UPI replacing cash transactions, the use of digital DLs and RCs will offer seamless convenience that will eventually become the norm.
Cost-Effective and Sustainable: The shift will reduce the cost of printing and other associated expenses, allowing the department to focus resources on improving service delivery.
Despite the availability of digital versions for DLs and RCs as provided under Central Motor Vehicle Rule 139, Kerala will become only the fourth state to stop issuing printed cards, joining three others that have already implemented the change.