Abstract: An apparatus and method for multi-color printing on plastic cards, such as credit cards, identification cards, and the like. The printing apparatus includes a rotatably driven cylinder having a smooth, high friction outer surface, and a plurality of color print stations spaced circumferentially about the cylinder. A receptor web supply roll is mounted adjacent to the cylinder and supplies an uninterrupted length of a receptor web to the outer surface of the cylinder. The receptor web is frictionally engaged with the outer surface of the cylinder such that the web rotates therewith when the cylinder is rotated. A stepper motor and gearing assembly is connected to the cylinder for rotating the cylinder, and therefore the receptor web that is disposed on the outer surface thereof, to position the receptor web relative to the color print stations. The stepper motor and gearing assembly allow precise positioning of the cylinder and the receptor web relative to each print head, to ensure precise print registration.