The alignment properties of the azo-dye photo-alignment material SD-1/SDA-2 on plastic substrates are investigated. Important liquid-crystal cell parameters, such as azimuthal and polar anchoring energy, pretilt angle, voltage holding ratio, and the corresponding electro-optical properties are presented. Excellent alignment with high anchoring energy can be achieved with a polarized UV dose less than 1.0 J/cm(2). A reflective six-digit flexible passive-matrix-driven TN-LCD for smart-card applications showing excellent electro-optical properties is demonstrated.