Mobile Number Update in Driving Licence & RC in Andhra Pradesh: Smart Cards, Fines & More

Introduction

Andhra Pradesh’s Transport Department has unveiled a series of important updates to ensure better communication and compliance among vehicle owners and drivers. With rising digitization, the state mandates updating mobile numbers in driving licences and Registration Certificates (RC) — now backed by smart-card formats and stricter enforcement.

Historical Context & Regulatory Changes

• In June 2025, AP resumed issuing smart cards for both driving licences and RC books, improving durability and making documents more secure and tamper-proof

• Recently, the Transport Department began alerting vehicle owners to immediately update their mobile numbers in DLs and RCs via Aadhaar-based verification using the Parivahan portal—parivahan.gov.in

What You Need to Know: Key Updates

• Document Format Upgrades: Transition from fragile paper booklets to smart-card IDs for both DL and RC. These cards are more durable, easier to carry, and suitable for spot checks by authorities.

• Mandatory Mobile Number Update: To receive official alerts (e.g., renewal reminders or traffic notices), vehicle owners must associate a valid mobile number using Aadhaar-backed authentication through the Parivahan portal.

• Online Accessibility: Mobile updates can be completed online—no need to visit RTO offices. Essential to maintain uninterrupted communication with transport authorities.

Age & Compulsory Use of DL & RC

• Driving Licence (DL) is mandatory for individuals aged 18 and above, although some two-wheeler categories allow driving at age 16.

• RC is required for any registered vehicle on the road—there’s no age requirement per se, but strict fines apply for non-possession. The minimum fine for not producing a valid DL or RC is now ₹1,000, significantly higher than the previous ₹100 penalty

• Digital (e-DL or e-RC) formats are accepted, and those with physical smart cards or digitally signed printouts (e.g., via DigiLocker) are compliant

Advantages & Significance

• Enhanced Communication: Fresh mobile data ensures timely alerts for renewals, traffic violations, and other notices.

• Durability: Smart cards resist wear and tear—ideal for daily use.

• Convenience: Aadhaar-authenticated updates can be done online anytime.

• Improved Enforcement: Higher fines and digital readiness improve legal adherence and offence tracking.

Disadvantages & Potential Concerns

• Digital Divide: Not all users have Internet access or smartphone literacy, potentially delaying necessary updates.

• Data Privacy Risks: Aadhaar authentication may raise concerns over data security.

• Implementation Gaps: Delays or technical glitches in smart card issuance may leave users in limbo.

• Strict Penalty: The ₹1,000 minimum fine can be burdensome to those unaware of the new rules.

Final Thoughts & Conclusion

Andhra Pradesh’s drive toward smarter, more efficient transport documentation with mobile-linked smart cards reflects a forward-looking vision. These reforms strengthen compliance, streamline communication, and align with the digital transformation of public services.

At the same time, ensuring equitable access—especially for digitally marginalized groups—will be vital. If effectively implemented, these steps could become a model for other states seeking to modernize transport regulation and enforcement.