Delhi govt considering digital versions of DL and RC for electronic alternative
The Delhi government is considering a significant shift towards digital versions of driving licenses and registration certificates, marking a move towards a more efficient, electronic alternative to the traditional system. The proposed plan would allow citizens to access, download and print their e-DL and e-RC in a format resembling an Aadhaar card, complete with a unique ID and QR code for verification by traffic authorities.
A senior official from the Delhi Transport Department stated that these digital documents could be stored in apps such as DigiLocker or mParivahan, making them easily accessible during traffic checks. Additionally, citizens would have the option to print these digital documents for physical use when necessary. The main objective of the move is to simplify processes for residents and reduce the hassle of carrying physical copies of important documents.
Between 2023 and 2024, the Delhi Transport Department issued approximately 1.6 lakh licenses and 6.69 lakh registration certificates as of May. While digital options for these documents have existed for some time, the new initiative aims to make future licenses and RCs exclusively digital, further streamlining the process.
The downloadable PDF files, which will be accessible via the Parivahan Sewa portal, are expected to feature QR codes to confirm their authenticity. Links to these files will be sent to applicants’ registered mobile numbers for easy access.
This development comes in response to concerns raised by Delhi’s Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot over delays in vehicle registrations. The minister has instructed the department to explore digital RCs as a means to improve efficiency in the registration process and enhance the overall experience for residents.
While the shift to digital-only documents is likely to offer convenience to many, some may still have reservations regarding issues such as digital literacy, accessibility and data privacy. Nonetheless, this initiative signals the government’s intent to modernise the system and reduce paperwork for both authorities and the public.
