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UP ditches paper RCs for smart cards Aug 1!
31 Jul
Summary
- Uttar Pradesh government replaces paper RCs with smart cards.
- New smart cards feature electronic chips and QR codes for easy access.
- Online applications available for existing vehicle owners to upgrade.

Beginning August 1, Uttar Pradesh is phasing out traditional paper Registration Certificates (RCs) for vehicles, implementing a mandatory smart card system. This new ATM-card-sized RC, made of durable plastic, will feature an embedded electronic chip and a QR code. The chip will securely store encrypted details like engine and chassis numbers, fuel type, and owner information, significantly reducing fraud potential.
Traffic police and RTO officials will scan the QR code on the smart RC using mobile devices to access real-time vehicle data, including insurance and PUC status, directly from a central database. This streamlines vehicle checks and eliminates manual number entry. Owners of older vehicles with paper RCs can apply online via the 'Vahan' portal to upgrade to the smart card format.
A nominal government fee applies for the upgrade. Once processed, the new smart RC will be delivered to the owner's home address via Speed Post, ensuring a convenient transition to the digital system.