By Martin Odiete, Abuja – Monday, October 20, 2025
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced a major technological advancement in Nigeria’s driver’s licence processing system — introducing a contactless biometric capture system that will allow applicants to obtain their permanent driver’s licences immediately after capture.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, disclosed this during a press conference held at the FRSC national headquarters in Abuja on Monday. Before the briefing, members of the press were taken on a guided tour of the FRSC Driver’s Licence Print Farm.
According to the Corps Marshal, the innovation marks a significant step toward digital transformation in Nigeria’s driver’s licence operations. He explained that the new contactless biometric technology will replace the traditional fingerprinting method and drastically reduce waiting time for applicants.
“We are moving to a fully digital and contactless driver’s licence process. Once you are captured, you will receive your driver’s licence immediately — no more temporary licences or delays of weeks or months,” Mohammed stated.
He added that the new system is synchronized with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database, ensuring that applicants’ details are securely stored and accessible for verification across government platforms.
“All your biometric and demographic details with NIMC will automatically synchronize with your driver’s licence record. This ensures data accuracy and eliminates duplication,” he said.
The Corps Marshal also emphasized that the new digital process will help eliminate touting and middlemen who exploit applicants at driver’s licence centres.
“Touting has been almost completely eliminated from our processes. You can now apply for a driver’s licence from the comfort of your home through our website, make payment online, and choose your preferred capture centre,” he explained.
On collaboration with state governments and other agencies, Mohammed clarified that the driver’s licence remains on the exclusive legislative list under the Federal Government, but its administration still involves state-level stakeholders such as Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIOs) and State Revenue Agencies.
The Corps Marshal further announced that FRSC has enhanced its preparations for the Ember Months, a period usually marked by increased travel and road crashes. He said the Corps would intensify its free vehicle safety checks, extend zero-tolerance patrols, and deploy personnel round-the-clock nationwide to ensure smooth traffic flow.
“During the Ember Months, our personnel — both regular and special marshals — will be on the road 24/7 to ensure free flow of traffic. Our aim is not just enforcement, but prevention and safety support,” he said.
He disclosed that the FRSC will also maintain free vehicle checks throughout the festive season to assist motorists in ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy.
“We want to help drivers identify and fix mechanical faults before they embark on journeys. Our goal is safer roads and fewer crashes,” he added.
The new contactless biometric driver’s licence system, which was demonstrated to journalists after the press briefing, is expected to officially roll out nationwide in the coming weeks.
With this development, the FRSC said Nigeria is aligning with global standards in digital identification, data synchronization, and road safety management — ensuring faster service delivery, enhanced security, and a more transparent process for all road users.
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