UP Overhauls Driving Licence System from Today; New Agencies Take Charge, Automated Driving Tests Begin

A major transformation in Uttar Pradesh’s driving licence (DL) system has come into effect from today. The Transport Department has handed over the complete DL issuance process to new private agencies, aiming to make the system faster, transparent and technologically advanced. Along with this, automated driving tests have begun in several districts at the newly set up Automated Driving Testing Centres (ADTCs).

New Agencies Replace Old Smart Chip Operator

From December 1, all responsibilities previously managed by the smart chip company have now been assigned to three new private agencies. These agencies will handle end-to-end DL functions — including testing, documentation, approval, and registration — under a centralised and controlled system.

Distribution of Responsibilities Across UP

To streamline operations and avoid delays, DL services have been divided among three companies:

• Lucknow Region:
  Silver Touch Company will manage all DL-related services including learner’s licence, permanent licence, duplicate licence and renewals.
• Other Districts:
  Focam Net and Rozmarta have been appointed to handle DL operations across remaining districts in the state.

All agencies have completed hardware installation, and system testing began today.

Old Issues Addressed in the New System

The earlier requirement of mandatory father’s name in Aadhaar had caused frequent technical errors, slowing down DL processing across the state. Additionally, system upgrades last week led to a 3–4 day suspension of DL approvals, leaving thousands of applications pending.

With the new system, these issues are expected to be resolved. The Transport Department aims to significantly increase processing speed, targeting nearly 10,000 DL applications per day.

Large-Scale Employee Transfers Under New Setup

A major reshuffling of staff has also begun under the new operational structure. Employees from neighbouring districts have been deployed to the Lucknow RTO, while local staff have been transferred to other districts. This marks the end of nearly a decade-old work arrangement at the RTO.

For detailed information and updates, citizens can visit the official portal: parivahan.gov.in