The Indian government is all set to revamp driving licenses (DL) and vehicle registration certificates (RC) under the ambitious 'One Nation, One Card' initiative. This upgrade aims to make licenses modern, secure, and convenient, resembling an ATM card in design and durability.

Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming changes.

1. When Will the New DL Be Rolled Out?

Expected launch: Late september or early october 2025

Produced at a central facility in Bengaluru and delivered directly to applicants

States like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are preparing for implementation

2. ATM-Style Design

Material: Made of polycarbonate, replacing the old PVC cards

Durability: Resistant to damage, wear, and tear

Printing: Laser-engraved details, ensuring they don’t fade or get tampered with

Look & Feel: Similar to ATM or debit cards, making them compact and user-friendly

3. 25 Important Details to Be Included

Unlike the old license, which had basic info, the new DL will include 25 categories of data, including:

Emergency contact numbers

Organ donation registration option

Biometric details

Blood group

Date of birth and age

License number and type of vehicle authorized

NFC (Near Field Communication) for instant verification

Address and photo

Issuing authority and date of issue

Validity period

Driving test record

Pollution norms compliance (for vehicles)

Other personal details linked to national databases

These features will enable faster verification by authorities and improve road safety.

4. NFC technology for Instant Verification

NFC chips allow traffic police and officials to retrieve driver data quickly

Helps in reducing manual checks and speeding up enforcement

Ensures that license information is always authentic and tamper-proof

5. How to Apply for the New Driving License Online

Applicants can apply via the Parivahan Sewa portal (parivahan.gov.in) following these steps:

Visit the official portal and select your state

Choose “Apply for Driving License”

Fill out the application form with personal details

Upload required documents (photo and signature in some states)

Book a slot for the driving test

Pay the application fee online

Appear for the driving test at an approved driving school

Receive the new DL at home after passing

6. No Mandatory RTO Test

From June 1, 2024, applicants no longer need to take tests at the RTO

Approved private driving schools can conduct the test

This change reduces the burden on RTOs and provides more convenience to learners

7. Advantages Over the Old License

Durable and tamper-proof

Faster verification using NFC

Includes biometric and emergency info

Supports organ donation registration

Centralized production ensures uniform quality

Future-ready for integration with wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital services

8. Transition for Existing License Holders

New cards will first be issued to fresh applicants

Existing cardholders will gradually transition to the upgraded version

Full rollout expected by early 2026

9. Key Takeaways

The ATM-style DL represents a major wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital and security upgrade

Offers convenience, authenticity, and durability

Incorporates 25 essential details for safety and verification

Supports digital initiatives like 'One Nation, One Card'

The upcoming ATM-like driving license is not just a cosmetic change. With advanced security features, NFC technology, and more data points, it will make driving licenses smarter, safer, and more convenient for indian citizens.