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Driving Licence Application in Nepal: Official Guide
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Driving Licence Application in Nepal: Official Guide

Ratings Nepal TeamNovember 6, 20263 min read

For a new driving licence in Nepal, begin with the Department of Transport Management's official online application portal. Use your own mobile number, submit accurate identity information, select an available office and appointment, and follow the current biometric and examination instructions.

Quick answer

Car on a road, illustrative image for driving licence applicants
Free car driving road, CC0 1.0; illustrative image, not a Nepal licensing office

For a new driving licence in Nepal, begin with the Department of Transport Management's official online application portal. Use your own mobile number, submit accurate identity information, select an available office and appointment, and follow the current biometric and examination instructions.

How to apply online

  1. Open the official Department of Transport Management online driving licence portal.
  2. Create or access your own applicant profile using your own mobile number.
  3. Enter your identity details exactly as they appear on your documents.
  4. Select the licence category and transport office, subject to current quota and appointment availability.
  5. Follow the portal's instructions for uploading identity-document scans and choosing an office visit date.
  6. Attend verification and biometrics with the required originals, then follow examination instructions issued by your office.

What documents should you prepare?

The DoTM application instructions identify original identity documentation, including citizenship, and an existing licence for category additions. Keep readable digital copies for online submission and originals for office verification. Requirements can differ by licence category and application type; check the live portal rather than relying on an old social-media checklist.

Avoid common application errors

MistakeSafer approach
Incorrect date of birth or spellingMatch original ID exactly
Using someone else's mobile numberUse a number registered in your name
Creating multiple applicant profilesMaintain one applicant profile
Missing the office visitCheck rescheduling instructions on the portal
Paying an unofficial intermediaryUse official channels and retain receipts

What about smart-card printing?

The official DoTM instructions refer applicants to a licence print-check facility. Availability and status are not the same as permission to drive; follow the current licence and receipt rules applicable to your situation. Keep your application reference and avoid publishing personal identifiers online.

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply without visiting an office?

The online system handles application steps, but in-person document verification, biometrics and examinations may still be required.

Is a booked slot a passed driving test?

No. Appointment booking and licence eligibility are separate steps.

What if the portal changes its quota schedule?

Follow the instructions currently displayed on the official portal, since office capacity and schedules can change.

Useful resources and next steps

Explore government services; browse all categories; read other consumer guides; and explore Ratings Nepal. For the authoritative rules and latest notices, consult the relevant official authority.

Ratings Nepal provides an independent consumer checklist, not a paid ranking or official regulatory decision. Compare the facts, verify current terms with the provider, and share an honest firsthand experience where a public review option is available.

Reviewed for publication: 6 November 2026. Requirements, availability and prices may change.

driving licence NepalDoTM applicationlicence biometricstransport officeNepal driving test