In today’s digital India, the Smart Card Driving Licence (SCDL) is replacing the traditional paper or booklet format. It’s modern, durable, and easy to verify across all states. If you still hold an old paper licence, now is the right time to upgrade to a smart card.

This guide from Quickinsure explains how to convert your old driving licence to a smart card, step by step — including eligibility, documents, fees, benefits, and FAQs.

What Is a Smart Card Driving Licence?

A Smart Card Driving Licence (SCDL) is a plastic card with an embedded microchip that stores all your licence details — name, photo, biometrics, and driving record. It’s recognized nationwide and is linked to the RTO database.

Key Features

  • Secure and tamper-proof format
  • Stores biometric and digital data
  • Compatible with digital verification at traffic checkpoints
  • Accepted across India under the Sarathi and Vahan systems

Why Convert to a Smart Card Licence?

Upgrading to a smart card offers both practical and security benefits.

Top Advantages

  • ✅ Long-lasting: No tearing or fading like paper booklets
  • ✅ Digital Record: Details stored in the national RTO database
  • ✅ Easy Verification: Cops and RTO officials can instantly check data using smart card readers
  • ✅ Nationwide Validity: Easier for interstate vehicle transfers and licence renewals
  • ✅ Fraud Prevention: Harder to forge or duplicate
  • ✅ Eco-Friendly: Reduces paper usage

Converting your licence ensures you’re aligned with the new Digital India Transport System — and avoids complications during renewals or police checks.

 

Eligibility for Conversion

Anyone holding a valid old paper or booklet-style driving licence can apply for a smart card conversion.

You’re Eligible If You:

  • Have a valid DL issued before the RTOs switched to smart cards
  • Have not applied for renewal or duplicate in the smart card format yet
  • Possess the original DL booklet and valid ID proof
  • Reside within the jurisdiction of the RTO where the licence was issued

Documents Required for Smart Card Conversion

Make sure to keep both originals and photocopies of the following:

  • ✔️ Original old driving licence (booklet or paper format)
  • ✔️ 2 recent passport-sized photographs
  • ✔️ Proof of identity (Aadhaar Card / PAN / Passport)
  • ✔️ Proof of address (Utility Bill / Voter ID / Aadhaar)
  • ✔️ Duly filled Form 7 (application for smart card DL)
  • ✔️ Self-attested copies of all documents
  • ✔️ Applicable fee receipt

Tip from Quickinsure: Check your state RTO website for any additional forms (like Form 9 for renewal or Form 1 for medical fitness if aged above 50).

Step-by-Step Process to Convert Old Licence to Smart Card

You can apply online via the Parivahan portal or offline at your local RTO.

Option 1: Apply Online via Parivahan

  1. Visit: https://parivahan.gov.in
  2. Go to “Driving Licence Related Services”
  3. Select your State and RTO
  4. Choose “Apply for Smart Card Driving Licence” (or Renewal/Replacement option if applicable)
  5. Fill in the details as per your old DL
  6. Upload required documents and photograph
  7. Book an appointment at your RTO (for biometrics and verification)
  8. Pay the conversion fee online
  9. Visit the RTO with originals for biometric data capture and verification
  10. Once approved, the new Smart Card Driving Licence is printed and dispatched to your address

Option 2: Apply Offline at the RTO

  1. Visit your home RTO office
  2. Collect and fill Form 7 for smart card DL
  3. Submit your old licence and self-attested documents
  4. Pay the conversion fee (₹200–₹400 depending on state)
  5. Provide fingerprints and photo for biometrics
  6. Receive acknowledgment or receipt with application number
  7. Track your application online via the Sarathi portal

Your new Smart Card DL will be delivered within 2–4 weeks by post.

Smart Card Driving Licence Fees (Approximate)

Service Type

Fee (₹)

Smart Card Conversion

200–400

Duplicate Smart Card DL

250–350

Renewal + Conversion

400–600

Address/Name Change

200–300

Note: Fees may vary slightly by state or union territory.

 

How to Track the Status of Your Smart Card DL

After submitting your application, track it using:

  • 🔗 Parivahan Website: https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in
  • 📄 Enter Application No. and DOB
  • 🕒 Check status (Processing, Approved, Printed, or Dispatched)
  • 📬 Use India Post tracking link once dispatched

 

What to Do After Receiving Your Smart Card DL

When your smart card arrives:

  • Verify all details (name, address, vehicle class, issue date)
  • Sign on the designated space if required
  • Store it safely — it’s proof of your legal driving status
  • Keep a digital copy on your DigiLocker or mParivahan app for instant access

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple oversights can delay your conversion. Avoid:

  • ❌ Submitting blurred photocopies or expired ID proofs
  • ❌ Forgetting to carry the old licence booklet
  • ❌ Skipping the biometric appointment
  • ❌ Entering incorrect date of birth or address
  • ❌ Not checking application status regularly

Pro Tip by Quickinsure: Always save the payment receipt and acknowledgment number — it’s your key for tracking and verification.

 

Quickinsure Tip: Keep Your Vehicle and Licence Documents Updated

Along with your smart card licence, ensure your bike or car insurance policy is active. Traffic authorities can now verify DL and motor insurance instantly during digital checks.

With Quickinsure, you can:

  • Compare and buy motor insurance from top insurers in seconds
  • Renew expired policies online
  • Save up to 70% on premiums

👉 Visit Quickinsure.co.in for instant quotes and renewal support.

Two-Wheeler and Four-Wheeler Insurance are essential financial safeguards for vehicle owners, protecting against damages, theft, and third-party liabilities. A two-wheeler insurance policy covers bikes and scooters, ensuring compensation for accidental damage, natural calamities, or loss, while a four-wheeler insurance policy offers similar protection for cars against accidents, fire, theft, or third-party injury. Whether you own a bike or car, having valid motor insurance is not only mandatory under the Motor Vehicles Act but also provides peace of mind during unforeseen events. With platforms like Quickinsure, you can easily compare, buy, and renew your two-wheeler and four-wheeler insurance online at the best premium rates — saving time, money, and effort.

FAQs on Smart Card Driving Licence Conversion

Q1. Can I convert my DL from another state into a smart card?
Yes, but you’ll need to transfer your licence to your current RTO first before applying for conversion.

Q2. What if my old DL is damaged or partly torn?
You can still apply — the RTO will verify details through their records before issuing the smart card.

Q3. Is there an age limit for conversion?
No, as long as your DL is valid and active, you can convert it at any age.

Q4. Can I use the digital copy instead of carrying the physical card?
Yes, the DigiLocker or mParivahan app version is legally accepted in India.

Q5. How long is the new Smart Card DL valid?
It remains valid for 20 years or until age 50, whichever is earlier.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your old booklet driving licence to a smart card is a one-time, simple process that brings long-term benefits — from security to digital convenience.

With this Quickinsure guide, you now know every step — from required documents to online application and delivery. Stay compliant, drive confidently, and ensure your insurance and licence are both up to date.