Nepal Driving License Process 2026: Online Form, Trial & Fees

Types of Driving License in Nepal

Nepal's Department of Transport Management (DOTM) issues driving licenses under various categories based on vehicle type. Each category requires a separate application, written test, and trial test. You must hold a lower category license before applying for a higher one in some cases.

The most commonly applied categories are Category A (motorcycle/scooter) and Category B (car/jeep). Many applicants apply for both simultaneously to save time and reduce multiple test sessions.

Required Documents

Prepare all documents before starting your online application at dotm.gov.np. You will need physical originals at your DOTM appointment.

• Nepali Citizenship Certificate, original and photocopy
• Blood group certificate (from a recognized medical centre or hospital)
• Eye test/vision certificate from a registered eye specialist (for Category B and above)
• Two recent passport-size photographs (white background)
• Online application form printout from dotm.gov.np
• Fee payment receipt (online or bank voucher)
• Old driving license (if adding a new category to an existing license)
• Medical fitness certificate (for Category C, D, E, commercial vehicles)

Complete Application Process

DOTM processes all driving license applications online. The full process from online form to collecting your license typically takes 4–8 weeks depending on test appointment availability and whether you pass on your first attempt.

1. Apply Online at dotm.gov.np: Visit the DOTM portal and create an account with your citizenship details. Fill the license application form, selecting your desired category (A, B, etc.). Upload scanned copies of your citizenship and photograph. The system generates an application number immediately.
2. Pay the Application Fee: Fees can be paid via Connect IPS, eSewa, Khalti, or at designated bank branches (Rastriya Banijya Bank, NIC Asia). Keep the payment receipt, you must present it at all DOTM visits. The fee covers both the written test and one trial test attempt.
3. Book Your Written Test: After payment, log back into the DOTM portal and book your written test date and time at your preferred DOTM office (Bagmati, Gandaki, Koshi, Lumbini, Karnali, Sudurpashchim province offices, or Ekantakuna Kathmandu). Test slots fill up quickly, book as early as possible.
4. Attend the Written Test: Arrive 30 minutes before your test time with your original citizenship, application printout, and payment receipt. The written test is computer-based: 25 multiple-choice questions in Nepali or English, drawn from the DOTM question bank. You need 13 out of 25 to pass. The test lasts 25 minutes.
5. Book the Trial (Practical) Test: After passing the written test, log in to DOTM portal and book your trial test slot. For Category A, the trial is at a designated DOTM track. For Category B, you use an 8-shaped or figure-of-eight track and a road section.
6. Pass the Trial Test: Arrive with your vehicle (or use DOTM's trial vehicle, which can be arranged at some centres) and required documents. An examiner evaluates your control, safety, and traffic rule compliance. You must complete the trial course without putting your foot down (Category A) or committing major errors (Category B).
7. Collect Your License: After passing the trial, your license is processed and issued within 7–15 working days. You can collect it from your DOTM office or request postal delivery (at an additional fee). Licenses are now smart-card format.

Written Test: Tips to Pass First Time

Common topics covered in the written test:

• Traffic signs and road markings (mandatory, prohibitory, warning signs)
• Right-of-way rules at intersections and roundabouts
• Overtaking rules and safe distances
• Speed limits by road type and vehicle category
• Penalties for traffic violations under the Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Act
• Safe following distance and braking distance calculations
• Rules for pedestrian crossings and school zones
• Night driving and fog/rain driving precautions
• First aid basics for road accidents
• Blood alcohol limit (0.0% for professional drivers; 0.03% for private)

Trial Test: What to Expect on the Day

1. Arrive Early: Report to the DOTM trial ground at least 30 minutes before your slot. Bring original documents: citizenship, application printout, written test pass certificate. Late arrivals may be disqualified and must rebook.
2. Vehicle Inspection: If using your own vehicle, it must pass a basic roadworthiness check (working brakes, lights, horn, mirrors). DOTM test vehicles, where available, are in standard condition but may be older models, practice in a similar vehicle beforehand.
3. Wait for Your Turn: Tests are conducted in batches. Watch other candidates to understand what the examiner is looking for. Note common failure points: mounting kerbs, touching cones, stalling on the hill start (Category B).
4. Execute the Trial: Follow the examiner's instructions calmly. For Category B: approach the 8-figure slowly in first gear, do not rush. For Category A: maintain balance at low speed, the slower and more controlled you are, the better. Do not panic if you make a minor error; only major faults cause immediate failure.
5. Receive Result: The examiner marks your result immediately. Pass candidates proceed to biometric capture; fail candidates can rebook a trial retest (additional fee of approx. Rs. 400 per attempt).

Driving License Fees 2026

Nepal driving licenses are valid for 5 years from the date of issue (Category A, B) or as specified for commercial categories. Renewal must be done before expiry, renewing an expired license requires the same process as a new application after a grace period. Renew online at dotm.gov.np in the final year of validity.

Processing Timeline

DOTM Office Locations for Driving License in Nepal

Nepal's Department of Transport Management (DOTM) has offices across all 7 provinces. You can submit your license application at any DOTM office, you are not restricted to applying in your home district.

The Ekantakuna DOTM office in Lalitpur handles the highest volume of applications nationwide. For faster processing, consider applying at a provincial DOTM office where appointment slots are more readily available. The online application system is the same regardless of which office you select.

Nepal Traffic Rules: Key Laws Every Driver Must Know

Knowing traffic rules is essential not just for passing the written test but for safe, legal driving in Nepal. Nepal's road traffic is governed by the Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Act 2049 (1992) and subsequent amendments. Here are the most critical rules:

Speed Limits (2026):

Key traffic rules to know:

• Drive on the left side of the road in Nepal (same as India, UK)
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants in cars (front and rear)
• Helmets are mandatory for both rider and pillion passenger on motorcycles
• Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited (even hands-free usage is discouraged)
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.03% BAC for private drivers; 0.00% for commercial vehicle drivers
• No U-turn where a No U-turn sign is posted or within 30m of an intersection
• Overtaking on the left (wrong side) is prohibited except when the vehicle ahead is turning right
• Headlights must be on from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise
• Vehicles must carry valid insurance, bluebook (vehicle registration), and driving license at all times

Traffic Fines and Penalties in Nepal 2026

Nepal has strengthened traffic enforcement in recent years, particularly in Kathmandu Valley and major highways. Here are the key traffic fines:

Smart Card Driving License: Nepal's New Format

Nepal has transitioned from the old booklet-format driving license to a modern smart card license (similar to a credit card in size). The smart card license was introduced progressively from 2019 onwards.

Features of Nepal's smart card driving license:

• Polycarbonate card with embedded microchip
• Machine-readable zone (MRZ) for automated verification
• Photo and biometric data stored on chip
• Holographic security features to prevent counterfeiting
• 10-digit DOTM license number
• Displays category (A, B, C, D, E), issue date, and expiry date
• Internationally recognised format

If you still hold an old booklet-format license (issued before 2019), it remains legally valid until expiry. However, when you renew, you will receive the new smart card format. There is no requirement to upgrade from booklet to smart card before your renewal date.

International Driving Permit (IDP): For Nepalis Driving Abroad

If you plan to drive a vehicle in a foreign country, you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your Nepal license. The IDP is a multilingual document (English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Arabic) that translates your license into internationally recognised formats.

Who issues IDP in Nepal? The IDP is issued by the Automobile Association of Nepal (AAN), not by DOTM. The process:

1. Visit AAN office (Tripureshwor, Kathmandu) or their authorised agents
2. Bring your valid Nepal driving license (original + copy), citizenship copy, 2 passport-size photos
3. Pay the AAN fee (approximately Rs. 1,500–2,000)
4. Receive IDP immediately (same-day issuance)

IDP validity is typically 1 year from issue date. It must be used alongside your original Nepal license, the IDP alone is not sufficient. Countries where IDP is useful for Nepalis: India, Qatar, UAE, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, and most countries in Europe and the Americas.

How to Check Your Driving License Status Online

You can check your driving license application status, validity dates, and details online through the DOTM portal:

• DOTM citizen portal: dotm.gov.np → "Check License Status" using your application number or license number
• NTA e-government portal: Also integrates with DOTM for license verification
• SMS service: Some zones offer license status via SMS, check with your local DOTM office

Driving License Renewal: Don't Miss the Deadline

Nepal driving licenses are valid for 5 years. Missing the renewal deadline creates legal and practical complications. Here is everything you need to know about renewal:

When to renew: You can renew from 90 days (3 months) before the expiry date. Start the renewal process 2–3 months before expiry to avoid rushing. The DOTM portal will notify you via email/SMS if your contact details are registered.

Renewal process:

1. Log into dotm.gov.np with your registered account (create one if you applied before the online system was introduced)
2. Navigate to "License Renewal" → enter your current license number
3. Pay the renewal fee online (Rs. 800 for Category A, Rs. 1,000 for Category B)
4. Book an appointment at your chosen DOTM office for biometric update (photo, fingerprint)
5. Attend the appointment with your old license + citizenship original
6. Receive renewed smart card license within 7–15 working days

Expired license situation:

• 0–35 days expired: renewal process same as above, no additional fine
• 35 days – 5 years expired: additional fine applies; renewal process otherwise same
• Over 5 years expired: must reapply as a new applicant, full written + trial test required

Driving Safety in Nepal: Road Accident Statistics

Nepal has one of the highest road accident fatality rates in South Asia relative to its vehicle count. Understanding the risk environment makes you a safer, more informed driver:

• Nepal records approximately 2,000–2,500 road fatalities annually (Metropolitan Traffic Police, 2025 data)
• Motorcycle accidents account for 55–60% of all road fatalities
• Kathmandu Valley, the Prithvi Highway (Kathmandu-Pokhara), and the Mahendra Highway (East-West) are the highest accident frequency routes
• Most fatal accidents involve speeding, overtaking on mountain bends, and drunk driving
• Helmet non-compliance is still high in rural areas despite mandatory helmet laws

Defensive driving tips for Nepal's roads:

• On mountain roads (Prithvi, Tribhuvan Highway, Arniko Highway): never overtake on blind bends; always use the horn when approaching a blind curve; keep left to avoid head-on collisions
• In Kathmandu city: pedestrians routinely cross without warning; maintain extra low speeds near markets and schools
• Night driving on highways: avoid it if possible; road conditions and signage are poor on many sections
• Monsoon (June–September): landslide risk on mountain roads; check road status before travelling on Prithvi or Arniko highways during monsoon

Nepal Traffic Police: When and How They Stop You

Traffic police checks are common in Nepal, particularly in Kathmandu Valley, on major highways, and during festive seasons. Knowing how to handle a stop correctly reduces stress and prevents avoidable fines.

Common checkpoint locations:

• Major intersections in Kathmandu (Kalanki, Koteshwor, Balaju, Shantinagar)
• Highway entry/exit points (Nagdhunga, Thankot, Sanga)
• Ring Road checkpoints (especially during peak hours)
• Terai highway (Mahendra Highway) long-distance checkpoints

What to do when stopped:

1. Pull over safely and promptly to the left, do not argue or try to drive away
2. Turn off the engine and remove your helmet (for motorcycles) when speaking with the officer
3. Greet politely and present your documents calmly: driving license, bluebook, insurance, road tax
4. If issued a fine, demand a printed receipt (chakku), never pay cash without a receipt as this enables corruption
5. If you believe the stop is unjustified, note the officer's badge number and file a complaint with the Metropolitan Traffic Police HQ or NTA

The electronic challan system: Kathmandu Metropolitan Traffic Police has piloted electronic challan (fine) systems using cameras for common violations (no helmet, red light jumping, lane violations). Fines are issued digitally and must be paid at authorized bank counters or through the Traffic Police's app. An unpaid e-challan may prevent your vehicle from renewing its registration.

Driving License for Commercial Vehicle Operators

If you work as a professional driver (taxi, microbus, bus, truck), your licensing requirements are more stringent than for private vehicle drivers. Here's what commercial vehicle operators need:

• Category C or D license: Required for microbuses/minibuses (C) and heavy trucks/buses (D). These require passing at a higher standard than Category A/B.
• Medical fitness certificate: From a DOTM-registered medical practitioner, confirming fitness to operate commercial vehicles. Required annually or at each renewal.
• Criminal background check: A no-objection certificate from the local police (especially for passenger-carrying vehicles like taxis and buses).
• Route permit (for public transport): A separate permit from the Transport Management Office authorising the specific route the vehicle will operate. Individual licenses alone are insufficient for commercial passenger transport.
• Professional driving training (recommended): For bus and heavy truck drivers, formal advanced driver training significantly reduces accident risk. Some insurance companies offer premium discounts for drivers with certified professional training.

Electric Vehicle Licensing in Nepal: New Rules

Nepal has seen rapid growth in electric vehicle (EV) adoption, particularly for motorcycles (scooters) and increasingly for cars. The driving license categories remain the same, an electric scooter falls under Category A, and an electric car under Category B. No separate license is required for electric vehicles.

However, prospective EV drivers should be aware of:

• EVs require DOTM registration (bluebook) like any other motorised vehicle, a registration document showing the vehicle as electric
• Electric vehicles are exempt from vehicle emission testing (they produce no tailpipe emissions)
• EV import duty concessions apply, the government has been encouraging EV adoption through reduced customs duties, though these rates change with each budget
• Charging infrastructure is developing rapidly in Kathmandu Valley; long-distance EV travel still requires careful charging station planning
• Electric motorcycles/scooters (e.g., Yatri Project 0, Bhavya Electric, various Chinese imports) often exceed the 50cc power equivalent of traditional Category A vehicles, consult DOTM for exact categorisation of your specific EV model

Driving License Summary: Key Facts at a Glance

• Apply online first at dotm.gov.np before visiting any DOTM office
• Written test: 25 questions, need 13 correct, computer-based at DOTM office
• Trial test: Figure-8 course (Category B) or narrow track (Category A) at DOTM grounds
• Fees: Rs. 1,200 (Category A), Rs. 1,500 (Category B), Rs. 2,200 (both)
• License validity: 5 years from issue date
• License format: Smart card (similar to ID card size)
• Renewal: Online at dotm.gov.np, up to 90 days before expiry; 35-day grace period after expiry
• Traffic fines are non-negotiable, always demand an official receipt (chakku) for any payment
• IDP for driving abroad: issued by Automobile Association of Nepal (AAN) at Tripureshwor

Frequently Asked Questions

Driving Schools in Nepal: What to Expect

While driving school attendance is not legally mandatory for DOTM's license process, most first-time drivers (particularly for Category B (car)) find professional training significantly improves their chances of passing the trial test and, more importantly, makes them safer on Nepal's challenging roads.

What driving schools provide:

• Structured driving instruction from licensed instructors
• Access to a practice vehicle (usually Maruti Alto 800 or similar for Category B, motorcycles for Category A)
• Written test preparation, most schools include study materials for DOTM question bank
• Trial test preparation, practice sessions on an 8-figure course identical to DOTM's trial track

Typical driving school package costs (Kathmandu 2026):

Well-established driving schools in Kathmandu include City Driving School, Kathmandu Driving School, and Mountain Driving Training Centre. Before enrolling, verify that the school has DOTM registration and qualified instructors. Visit the school, meet an instructor, and ask to see the practice vehicle condition before paying fees.

Vehicle Registration and Insurance: The Complete Picture

A driving license allows you to drive legally, but to drive your own vehicle, you also need vehicle registration (bluebook) and insurance. Here's a quick overview of each:

Vehicle Registration (Bluebook, Lalpurja): All motorized vehicles must be registered with DOTM before use on public roads. The registration document ("bluebook" due to its historical blue colour, now often a smart card) shows the vehicle's owner, engine/chassis number, and registration validity. Vehicle registration must be renewed annually (road tax payment confirms renewal). Driving an unregistered vehicle is illegal and subject to impoundment.

Third-Party Liability Insurance (mandatory): Nepal's Motor Vehicles and Transport Management Act requires all vehicles to have at least third-party liability insurance before being driven on public roads. This insurance covers injury or death to third parties (pedestrians, other drivers) caused by your vehicle. Comprehensive insurance (covering your own vehicle damage) is optional but strongly recommended for newer vehicles. Insurance is purchased from licensed insurance companies (Nepal Insurance, Sagarmatha Insurance, Shikhar Insurance, etc.) through their agents or online.

Pollution Check (Emission Testing): Vehicles in Kathmandu Valley must pass annual emission testing at authorised centres. The test certificate is required for annual registration renewal. Vehicles failing emission tests cannot legally be renewed, this is increasingly enforced to address Kathmandu's severe air pollution.

Checklist: Everything You Need to Drive Legally in Nepal

DOTM Quick Reference: Key Contacts and Links

• Online application: dotm.gov.np, apply, book test slots, track status
• DOTM Headquarters (Kathmandu): Babarmahal, Kathmandu | Tel: 01-4262278
• Main trial test ground (Kathmandu): Ekantakuna, Lalitpur
• Fee payment: Online via dotm.gov.np or at Rastriya Banijya Bank, NIC Asia Bank counters
• Metropolitan Traffic Police Helpline: 103 (Kathmandu)
• IDP (International Driving Permit): Automobile Association of Nepal, Tripureshwor | Tel: 01-4246602
• Traffic violation e-challan lookup: trafficpolice.nepalpolice.gov.np