Now, smart card to replace International driving licence book

The Transport department is all set to replace the booklet authorising the international driving licence (IDL) with a smart card.

People going abroad on tour or business as well as those pursuing education seek international driving licence.

The department issues a booklet  - of the size of apassport - as licence document.

Officials said since travelling abroad requires carrying many d ocuments, the department has decided to reduce part of the burden through the smart card. RTO officials had sent a proposal to the transport secretary after many people suggested the smart card.

The proposal was approved recently. "We had plans to start the smart card programme with a formal event at the end of March. Since the code of conduct is in place, we will seek the permission of the election commission officials and start issuing the DLs," Transport Commissioner B Dayananda said.

He said the IDL card is part of the department's effort to digitalise its entire operations. "We are already issuing smart cards for driving licence and registration certificate. The IDL smart card will be a step forward in that direction," he said.

One-year validity

The IDL can be obtained by anyone who has a driving licence from any RTO in the state provided the person clears the test. Visa and passport documents are required for the application.

"The IDL helps those who choose to stay abroad and obtain a permanent DL. We are charging Rs 1,000 for an IDL. The decision on additional charge for the smart card will be taken depending on the demand," he said.

RTO officials noted that the smart card will also help in preventing the menace of fake documents.