The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has unveiled a new contactless biometric capture system for the issuance of driver’s licences in Nigeria, signaling a major step toward full digitalization in the country’s motor vehicle administration processes.
This landmark initiative was announced alongside the launch of the 2025 Ember Months Road Safety Campaign, aimed at reducing road traffic accidents during the high-travel festive season. The campaign, which kicked off in Abuja, is themed:
“Tech Responsibility for Your Safety: Stop Distracted Driving.”
It targets unsafe driving habits that typically contribute to the rise in road crashes between December 15 and January 15.
Streamlined Licensing: Contactless and Instant
Speaking at the campaign launch, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed highlighted that the new system will eliminate long-standing delays in licence issuance and end the use of temporary licences.
“We have activated plans to overcome the perennial challenges associated with delays in obtaining driver’s licences and number plates,” he said. “Our upgraded printing facility now has the capacity to produce an average of 15,000 driver’s licences daily.”
This enhanced capacity is expected to clear the current backlog by the second week of November 2025.
The contactless system enables on-the-spot licence printing upon biometric data capture, creating a one-stop digital platform for licence processing.
“Once captured, applicants will receive their permanent driver’s licence instantly—no more waiting for weeks or using temporary documents,” the Corps Marshal added.
Built on Collaboration and Integration
According to Mohammed, the system was developed in collaboration with state governments and other relevant stakeholders, recognizing that driver licensing falls under a concurrent legislative list in Nigeria.
He emphasized that the new approach prioritizes data integrity and security, stating:
“Globally, what matters is having adequate and comprehensive data that can be stored and retrieved when needed. This new process reflects that standard.”
The digital system will also integrate existing institutions such as:
- Driving schools
- Vehicle Inspection Offices (VIO)
- Certification bodies
The shift from physical biometric capture to contactless technology ensures faster, more hygienic, and efficient processing.
“It no longer involves placing your fingers on biometric scanners. The contactless system captures all essential data seamlessly,” Mohammed explained.
