Karnataka launches high-tech smart RC cards; Minister Ramalinga Reddy flags off new system

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy introduces upgraded QR-enabled RC cards; smart DL cards to begin from December 15.

Karnataka’s Transport Department has entered a new digital phase as I launched the state’s high-tech Smart RC Card under the One Nation, One Card initiative. The upgraded card is now officially in use and will be issued to everyone applying for a new RC across the state.

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The new RC Smart Card comes with a built-in QR code, allowing anyone to scan and access the vehicle’s details instantly. The card is priced at ₹200, of which ₹135 goes to the government and ₹64.46 to the service provider. This upgrade is meant to make the process of verification faster, safer and more reliable.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy said, “We are using two advanced printing machines imported from Italy, each capable of producing 500-600 cards per hour. With this capacity, nearly 15,000 smart cards will be printed every day. Another machine is in the pipeline to further boost production. All printing is done at the Shantinagar central office and sent to districts.”

There is no change for those who already have an RC card. Your existing card remains valid. But if you want the new smart card, you can apply and get it for ₹200. Anyone applying for an RC from now will automatically get the upgraded version.

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Along with the RC, smart Driving Licence (DL) cards will also be introduced from December 15. The project has been taken up through Rose Smart, which has secured a five-year contract to run the new card system.

The goal of this initiative is to modernise documentation and make services more citizen-friendly through technology.