Andhra Pradesh Goes Digital with Driver's Licences and Vehicle Registrations
In a significant stride towards paperless governance, the State Transport Department of Andhra Pradesh has embraced a digital approach for issuing driver”s licences and vehicle registration documents. As of August 1, the traditional practice of issuing physical cards has been replaced with a digital alternative that can be downloaded from the DigiLocker platform. This innovative shift not only simplifies procedures for citizens but also eliminates challenges to vendors, lamination, and delivery services.
The transition holds numerous advantages, including enhanced convenience and cost savings for applicants. Previously, a fee of ₹225 was charged, encompassing production and postal expenses. The new digital process not only streamlines the issuance process but also aligns with the national initiative “Parivahan Seva,” aimed at computerizing Road Transport Offices (RTOs) across the country.
For those who applied and paid fees until July 29, physical cards will still be provided – an estimated issuance of about 24 lakh cards. However, moving forward, all cards will be issued exclusively in digital form. These digital cards come fortified with cybersecurity features, ensuring their acceptance by law enforcement and transport authorities for verification purposes.
The change has garnered positive reactions, with individuals appreciating the transparency and efficiency it introduces. The previous delays caused by material shortages for physical cards will no longer be a concern, according to feedback from individuals like P. Pandu Ranga Rao, a lecturer from Eluru.
