FRSC Launches Contactless Driver’s Licence System, Ends Temporary Permits

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has introduced a contactless biometric capture system to make obtaining a driver’s licence in Nigeria faster and more efficient. The new system eliminates the use of temporary licences and long waiting periods, allowing applicants to receive their permanent licences immediately after biometric capture.

Speaking at the launch of the 2025 Ember Months Public Enlightenment and Sensitisation Campaign in Abuja, Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed said the initiative is part of the Corps’ ongoing efforts to digitalise its operations and simplify the driver’s licence process across the country. He explained that the upgraded system enables automatic biometric capture without physical contact, instantly synchronising applicants’ details with the national database.

Mohammed noted that the FRSC has enhanced its printing facilities to manage higher production volumes and clear existing backlogs before November 2025. He assured Nigerians that the contactless biometric process, which begins this month, will ensure a one-stop, fully digitalised service nationwide.

The Corps Marshal also revealed a decline in road crash fatalities compared to the previous year. Data from the 2024 Operation Zero campaign showed 432 deaths and 2,070 injuries from 533 crashes between December 15, 2024, and January 15, 2025. Between January and September 2025, however, 3,433 deaths and 22,162 injuries were recorded in 6,858 crashes, indicating relative improvement in road safety outcomes.

He added that the FRSC will intensify its Ember Months campaign against distracted driving, fatigue, overloading, and phone use while driving. The Corps is also set to host the International Conference on Road Crash Victims for Africa from November 16 to 18, 2025, in collaboration with the KRSD Road Safety Foundation, to enhance post-crash care in line with the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety.

During a visit to the FRSC Driver’s Licence Print Farm, Deputy Corps Marshal for Motor Vehicle Administration, Aliyu Datsama, confirmed that the Corps has increased its production capacity to clear outstanding licences. He stated that the backlog, previously at 800,000, has been reduced to 400,000, with a daily production rate of 40,000 licences. Datsama expressed confidence that the remaining backlog would be cleared within weeks.

The FRSC reaffirmed its commitment to using technology to improve service delivery and promote safer roads across Nigeria.