Karnataka Smart Card – Apply Link, Eligibility & Full Details (2026)
The Karnataka Smart Card (Shakti Smart Card) is introduced by the Karnataka government to simplify access to free bus travel for women under the Shakti Scheme. With this card, eligible beneficiaries can travel in state-run buses without purchasing daily tickets.
The smart card helps the government track usage, prevent misuse, and make travel faster and more convenient for passengers.
What is the Karnataka Smart Card?
The Shakti Smart Card is a digital travel card issued to eligible residents (mainly women beneficiaries) to use free bus services across Karnataka state transport corporations.
The scheme allows women and transgender residents of Karnataka to travel free on government buses within the state.
Transport corporations covered under the scheme include:
- KSRTC
- BMTC
- NWKRTC
- KKRTC
However, luxury and AC buses are excluded from the scheme.
Benefits of Karnataka Smart Card
Key benefits of the smart card include:
- Free bus travel across Karnataka state
- Faster ticket verification during travel
- No need to show documents every time
- Government-verified digital travel ID
- Easier travel tracking and transparency
More than millions of women use the free bus travel scheme daily in Karnataka.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for the Karnataka Smart Card if:
- You are a resident of Karnataka
- You are a woman or transgender person
- You have a valid Aadhaar card with Karnataka address
- You travel in state government buses
Free travel applies only within Karnataka state and not on interstate services.
Documents Required
Applicants generally need the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport size photograph
- Address proof (if Aadhaar address differs)
- Mobile number linked with Aadhaar
These documents are required for identity verification during the application process.
How to Apply for Karnataka Smart Card (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps to apply online:
Step 1: Visit Seva Sindhu Portal
Go to the official Karnataka government service portal.
Step 2: Register/Login
Create an account using your mobile number and verify with OTP.
Step 3: Search for Shakti Smart Card Service
Find the Free Bus Travel / Shakti Scheme Smart Card service.
Step 4: Fill Application Form
Enter personal details such as:
- Name
- Aadhaar number
- Address
- District details
Step 5: Upload Documents
Upload required documents and photograph.
Step 6: Submit Application
Submit the form and save the application reference number.
After verification, the smart card will be issued.
Offline Application Option
If you cannot apply online, you can apply offline by visiting:
- KSRTC Bus Depot
- BMTC Bus Depot
- Government service centers
Submit the application form along with Aadhaar copy and documents.
Processing Time
- Approval usually takes 7 to 15 days after application submission.
- Applicants may receive SMS updates on their registered mobile number.
Official Apply Link
Apply online through the official Karnataka government portal:
Apply Now
👉 https://sevasindhu.karnataka.gov.in
Search for Shakti Smart Card / Free Bus Travel Scheme and complete the online application.
Important Rules
- The smart card is non-transferable.
- It is valid only for non-AC government buses.
- Travel is allowed only within Karnataka state.
- Misuse of the card may lead to cancellation.
✅ Tip: Until the smart card is issued, eligible passengers may still travel free by showing a valid government photo ID with Karnataka address.