In a move to modernise vehicle documentation, vehicle registration certificates (RCs) will soon join driving licences in going digital. This change aims to make it easier for vehicle owners to access their documents. An update to the software is coming soon, with around 450,000 RCs to be prepared. New applicants will receive digital copies once outstanding dues are settled, and RC cards will only be issued upon request. Original cards will still be necessary for transport vehicles travelling to other states.

The driving licence has already fully transitioned to a digital format. From now on, cards will only be issued to those who have paid their fees before November. Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar had stated that those wishing to use their licences as identification documents will receive a card upon payment.

The announcement regarding the digital transition was made last month due to the disruption of printing for driving licences and RC books. Ganesh Kumar had declared that the Motor Vehicle Department would provide digital copies on its own. The Central Government had also issued a notification validating the authenticity of digital copies, and based on this, the state has also issued an order.

In October 2023, the RC book began its transformation into a smart card format. The decision to switch to a PETG card had aimed to eliminate middlemen. It was previously stated that RCs would be printed and distributed based on information obtained from offices and online.

Who also will benefit from this?

Another anticipated benefit of transitioning RCs to the smart card format is a significant reduction in the workload at Motor Vehicle Department offices. It was also expected that staff assigned to prepare laminated cards and send them by post could be redeployed to other roles, leading to substantial organisational changes.

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