Traditional driving licenses are being replaced by the more reasonable Smart Card Driving License (SCDL). SCDLs are plastic cards with microchips that provide enhanced functionality, security and the recovery of valuable information (such as fingerprints and blood type), which are described in a ciphertext mode that significantly speeds up the authentication process.
But what is the way to receive one of these things? What makes them more attractive than traditional paper versions? All your questions will be answered in this blog, from eligibility criteria to fees and application steps.
What is a smart card driving license?
Smart Card Driver’s License is a new generation driver’s license format small plastic smart card equipped with a 64KB microprocessor. In this microchip, the driver’s confidential information (name/address/blood type/fingerprint and retinal scan photo data) can also be stored in an encrypted manner. Licensed devices can read this data very quickly, very accurately and efficiently. Typically, it is the responsibility of the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and the Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO) to check the contents of such smart cards, thereby enhancing security and streamlining the process. This smart system not only makes the driving license more stable, but is also very useful in reducing vulnerabilities to fraud or duplication, thus illustrating why having a smart card driving license is beneficial.
Smart Card Driving License Eligibility
Vehicle category | minimum age | Additional requirements |
Motorcycle (under 50cc, no gears) | 16 years | Under 18 years old requires parental/guardian consent |
Motorcycle (50cc and above, with gear) | 18 years old | No additional requirements |
Light motor vehicles (LMV), including cars | 18 years old | No additional requirements |
Heavy Commercial Vehicles (Transportation) | 18 years old | Must have completed 8th standard education and provide medical certificate |
Eligibility Criteria for DL
In order to obtain a DL, appropriate learning outcomes must be achieved, which are defined by a specific set of requirements. The following are a series of general guidelines that any DL on a private motor vehicle needs to meet.
Mandatory SCDL is required for geared two-wheelers with engine displacement greater than or equal to 50cc and must be at least 18 years old.
In the research area, the minimum age limit for subjects to ride gearless two-wheelers is 16 years, and parental consent is required.
For cars, the age limit is 18 years.
DL required documents
It is likely that more than one document type will be required at different stages of a DL application.
Documents required for DL for Indian Citizens:
- Adharka.
- Proof of age – passport, birth certificate.
- Proof of address – utility bill, bank related information (passbook).
- Application form.
- Medical certificate.
- Physical fitness statement.
- Proof of disability.
- Proof of current residence.
Foreign Citizen/Diplomat/Refugee DL Required Documents:
- Copy of passport.
- Copy of visa.
- Medical certificate.
- Learner’s Permit.
Smart Card Driving License Form:
- The Visual Inspection Area (VI) is the preliminary information about the applicant and the vehicle.
- Machine-parsable area-data, such as as much data about DL as possible, such as chip serial number, issuing agency, etc.
- Details of fines, penalties, recognition etc. as per Central Motor Vehicles Rules.
Steps to apply for a smart card driving license online
- Step one: Visit the official website of Parivahan Sewa.
- Step 2: Select the appropriate online service on the ribbon and click Driver’s License Services.
- Step 3: Select your current place of residence and choose the nearest RTO.
- Step 4: Restore the driver’s license menu and select the new driver’s license menu item.
- Step 5: If there are any learner license numbers, intervention will be required to obtain the learner license (i.e.
- Step 6: Complete the application, upload all necessary documents, schedule a DL appointment for a “swab test” (if required), and pay.
- Step 7: However, RTO access is mandatory only if DL is applicable.
- Step 8: The Driver’s (Minimum) Driving License will be sent by post to the applicant’s domicile (residential address) by the issuing agency within 2-3 weeks after submitting the application and complying with the application procedure.
Following is the procedure to check the status of smart card DL Online application.
- Step one: (See Ministry of Road Transport and Highways website.
- Step 2: Click “Online Services” on the home screen and select “Driving License Related Services” in the menu.
- Step 3: Select a state and you will be taken to the RTO page for that state.
- Step 4: Click on the “Application Status” option in the menu bar
- Step 5: Enter the application number and date of birth and solve the verification code.
- Step 6: Click the “Submit” button
- Step 7: The system will display the application status (e.g. Application Submitted, RTO Processing, Test Plan/Passed, Approved, Dispatched, and Delivered).
Steps to apply for a smart card driving license offline
- Step 1: The application form for applying for a new Smart Card Driving License (SCDL) can be seen at the nearest RTO office. It is also captured for all task groups.
- Step 2: All required questions and documents need to be completed and uploaded upon submission.
- Step 3: Pay for use of the SCDL app and get a receipt.
- Step 4: However, in this setting, users must take a deep learning test.
- Step 5: After testing is completed, the subject must provide biometric authentication at the biometric collection facility.
- Step 6: Replacement Smart Card License Applicant Card will be mailed to the applicant within 2-3 weeks after the application is processed and all requirements are completed.
Smart Card Driving License Fee
Serve | Applicable fees |
New Smart Card Driving License Application | 200 rupees |
Convert from old license to SCDL | 200 rupees |
Add new vehicle class to existing SCDL | 500 rupees |
Smart Card Driving License Renewal | Rs 200 |
Smart Card Driving License Address Change | 200 rupees |
How to convert old DL to new DL:
- Step 1 – Visit the nearest RTO.
- Step 2 Request a license upgrade or smart card DL form.
- Step 3 Fill out the form and select supporting documents.
- Step 4 – Submit biometric information.
- Step 5 – Pay applicable fees.
- Step 6 Obtain the receipt and retain it for delivery of the SCDL.
- Step 7 SCDL reaches the registered address.
Documents to submit when converting a driving license to a smart card driving license:
- Current driver’s license.
- Proof of address.
- Other specific documents required by RT officials.
Also Read – Types of Indian Driving License
Advantages and disadvantages of using smart card DL instead of ordinary DL
Look at this – No need to carry your driver’s license or RC car with you while driving!
Safe, efficient and convenient: why you should buy smart card DL
Smart card driving licenses provide a new generation of driving safety and practicality. presents the challenge of how to securely store your personal and biometric information in a simple device that prevents fraud and forgery, allowing for a more efficient and accurate verification process. Whether you’re upgrading from a paper driver’s license or applying for a new one, a smartcard driver’s license is worth considering because it’s durable, easy to use and more protective. The application process is simple and with the benefits it offers, switching to SmartCard DL is an investment in safer, worry-free driving.
Also Read – How to download your driving license in India – and why you…
FAQ
- how How long is the smart card driving license valid?
The validity period of a Smart Card Driving License (SCDL) also depends on the license type and region. Generally speaking, public driving licenses for private car driving, heavy vehicle driving licenses and learner driving licenses are valid for 15 years, 5 years and 6 months respectively.
2. Are the old DL booklets still valid in India?
Yes, obsolete/old DL type booklets are still valid in India provided they are not expired.
3. What can I do if I lose my SCDL?
If your Smart Card Driving License (SCDL) is lost, file a police complaint and apply for a duplicate license online or offline and provide the required documents.
4. What if my smart card DL application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, we will provide you with the reasons for the rejection. You can correct the error and accept or reject the decision as per the RTO rules.
5. Is a smart card driving license required for international driving?
Smart Card DL may not successfully recognize international drivers. It may be necessary to hold an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive a vehicle in another country.
6. How long does it take to print a DL in Form 7?
The process is usually completed within a month. Once the new SCDL is completed, it is automatically sent to the address entered. The printing time of Form 7 DL largely depends on the workload undertaken by the RTO.
7. No matter which state in India I am currently in, will my smart card driving license from that state be valid in India?
Yes, absolutely. Your DL smart card can be moved across the country, i.e. all states and union territories.
8. Is a medical certificate required to apply for a smart card driving license?
If you are 40 years of age or older, you may need to provide a health certificate (Form 1A) to obtain a SCDL. Nonetheless, obtaining a commercial driver’s license is mandatory.
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