The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has launched a fully digital driver’s license system in Nigeria, introducing contactless biometric capture and instant printing of permanent licenses. The initiative, unveiled by Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed in Abuja on Monday, marks the official end of temporary licenses and aims to eliminate the long-standing delays that have frustrated motorists for years.
“We have activated plans to overcome the perennial challenges associated with delays in obtaining the driver’s license and number plates,” Mohammed said. “Today, we are officially commencing the contactless biometric capture with on-spot printing of the license. This will eliminate temporary licenses, thereby signalling the beginning of a digitalised one-stop shop for processing driver’s licenses.”
Under the new system, applicants can complete biometric capture and receive their permanent polycarbonate card instantly at any Driver’s Licence Centre.
The FRSC has upgraded its infrastructure to print up to 40,000 licenses daily, significantly reducing the backlog, which has already dropped from 800,000 to 400,000 pending licenses.
Deputy Corps Marshal Aliyu Datsama assured motorists that all outstanding licenses would be cleared soon. “By the grace of God, we will clear everything in the next few weeks,” he said.
The digital overhaul not only speeds up license processing but also strengthens verification through integration with the National Identification Number (NIN) database, curbing forgery and improving national data security.
In addition to the physical card, drivers can access an optional electronic driver’s license (eNDL) through the FRSC mobile app, offering a secure, real-time digital version of their license that works offline.
The initiative aligns with Nigeria’s digital economy goals and the 2025 “Ember Months” Road Safety Campaign themed “Tech Responsibility for Your Safety: Stop Distracted Driving.” The FRSC says the reform underscores its commitment to safer, more efficient road management and a fully digital Nigeria.
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