FRSC Unveils Contactless Biometric System to Eliminate Temporary Driver’s Licences

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has announced a groundbreaking contactless biometric system designed to end the issuance of temporary driver’s licences and significantly streamline the application process nationwide.

The initiative, set for a national launch in November 2025, was disclosed by the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, during an inspection of the new biometric screening centre in Abuja on Monday.

According to Mohammed, the new technology is a core part of the Corps’ comprehensive digitalization strategy. It will enable instant biometric capture and synchronisation with the national database, allowing for the immediate issuance of permanent licences.

“The new process will put an end to delays in issuing permanent licences,” Mohammed stated. “It’s seamless now. You don’t need to place your hand on a device; the system captures your biometrics automatically. At the end of the process, once you’re captured, you get your driver’s licence immediately.”

He emphasized that this innovation will eliminate the long waiting periods, ranging from two weeks to over a year that have frustrated applicants in the past.

In preparation for the full rollout, the FRSC has already upgraded its printing facilities to handle increased production capacity and clear any existing backlogs. The contactless system is scheduled to commence pilot operations this month, ensuring a fully digitalised and integrated one-stop process for all applicants ahead of the November launch.