Nepal’s Department of Transport Management (DOTM) has transformed the online driving license form application process through its official digital portal at https://applydl.dotm.gov.np. This comprehensive guide provides verified information for obtaining your online driving license in Nepal efficiently in 2025.
“The online driving license system has made the application process faster, easier, transparent, and accessible from anywhere with just an internet connection.” – Department of Transport Management, Nepal
Table of Contents
Why Choose Online Driving License Application?
Key Benefits:
- 60% faster processing compared to traditional methods
- Apply from home – no queue standing required
- Mobile-friendly portal accessible 24/7
- Secure payment gateways with bank-level encryption
- Real-time tracking of application status
Understanding Nepal’s Driving License Categories
The minimum age requirements vary by vehicle category: 16 years for two-wheelers (motorcycles, scooters, mopeds), 18 years for small vehicles (cars, vans, jeeps), and 21 years for other vehicle categories.
Complete License Category Breakdown
| License Category | Vehicle Type | Minimum Age | Validity Period | Application Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Motorcycle/Scooter | 16 years | 5 years | NPR 1,500 |
| B | Car/Light Vehicle | 18 years | 5 years | NPR 2,000 |
| C | Light Truck | 18 years | 5 years | NPR 2,500 |
| D | Power Tiller | 18 years | 5 years | NPR 1,500 |
| E | Tractor | 21 years | 5 years | NPR 3,000 |
| F | Medium Vehicle | 21 years | 5 years | NPR 3,000 |
| G | Heavy Vehicle/Bus | 21 years | 5 years | NPR 3,000 |
Online Driving License Form Requirements 2025
Essential Documents Checklist
Primary Documentation:
- Nepalese Citizenship Certificate (Original scanned copy – PDF/JPG format)
- Passport-size Photographs (2×2 inches, recent, JPG format, white background)
- Medical Certificate from DOTM-authorized clinic
- Proof of Address (matches citizenship records)
- Mobile Number registered in applicant’s name
- Valid Email Address for notifications
For Renewal Applications:
- Existing driving license copy
- Updated medical certificate
- Recent passport photographs
Document Scanning Specifications
Technical Requirements for Document Upload:
- Resolution: Minimum 300 DPI
- File Size: Maximum 500 KB per document
- Accepted Formats: PDF, JPG, JPEG only
- Image Quality: Clear, well-lit, all text readable
- Color: Color scans preferred for citizenship
Step-by-Step Online Driving License Application Process
Phase 1: Account Registration on DOTM Portal
Visit the official online driving license system homepage at https://applydl.dotm.gov.np from your mobile or computer, enter your mobile number and captcha, then click Next to receive a 6-digit MPIN via SMS.
Detailed Registration Steps:
- Access Official Portal: Navigate to https://applydl.dotm.gov.np
- Mobile Verification: Enter your registered mobile number
- CAPTCHA Completion: Complete security verification
- MPIN Receipt: Receive 6-digit PIN via SMS within 2 minutes
- Profile Setup: Choose “New Applicant” or “Existing License Holder”
- Citizenship Verification: Enter citizenship number (auto-fills from MOHA database)
- Address Confirmation: Verify residential details match citizenship records
- Create Account: Set username and secure password
Important Note: Details come from the MOHA Citizenship Information System. If incorrect, visit your District Administration Office to update them before proceeding.
Phase 2: Online Form Submission
New application forms open every 16th day from 7 AM, and applicants can apply online for 7 days (24 hours daily) until the quota of license category is filled.
Form Filling Process:
- Login to Portal: Use mobile number and MPIN/password
- Select “Apply for New Driving License”
- Choose Vehicle Category: Select appropriate license type (A, B, C, etc.)
- Verify Personal Information:
- Full name (as per citizenship)
- Date of birth (Nepali/English calendar)
- Permanent and temporary address
- Emergency contact details
- Upload Required Documents:
- Citizenship certificate (both sides)
- Passport photographs
- Medical certificate
- Address proof
- Select Transport Office: Choose nearest DOTM office location
- Choose Exam Date: Biometric verification is available on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays (except public holidays) at Transport Management Offices
- Review Application: Double-check all information
- Submit Form: Accept terms and conditions
- Print Acknowledgment: Save application reference number
Phase 3: Fee Payment Structure
Complete Fee Breakdown (NPR):
| Service Type | Application Fee | Written Exam | Practical Exam | License Issuance | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle (A) | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | NPR 1,500 | NPR 3,000 |
| Car/Light Vehicle (B) | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | NPR 2,000 | NPR 3,500 |
| Heavy Vehicle (F/G) | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | NPR 3,000 | NPR 4,500 |
| License Renewal | – | – | – | NPR 1,000 | NPR 1,000 |
| Category Addition | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | NPR 500 | Varies | NPR 2,500+ |
| Duplicate License | – | – | – | NPR 500 | NPR 500 |
Payment Methods Available:
- Bank transfer (eSewa, Khalti, IME Pay)
- Counter payment at DOTM office
- Connect IPS
- Government revenue portal
Phase 4: Biometric Registration & Document Verification
Visit the transport office with your documents and pay the application fee. Bring the following:
Required Items for Office Visit:
- Printed online application form (signed)
- Original citizenship certificate
- Medical certificate original
- 2 passport-size photographs
- Payment receipt (if paid online)
- NPR 10 stamp (revenue stamp)
Verification Process Timeline: 15-30 minutes
Phase 5: Written Examination Preparation
The computer-based exam includes multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering traffic rules, road signs, and vehicle mechanics.
Exam Structure:
- Format: Computer-based MCQ test
- Total Questions: 40 questions
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Passing Marks: 40% (16 correct answers)
- Language Options: Nepali, English
- Attempt Limit: Maximum 3 attempts within 90 days
Topics Covered:
- Traffic rules and regulations (35%)
- Road signs and markings (25%)
- Vehicle mechanics basics (15%)
- Traffic safety guidelines (15%)
- First aid and emergency procedures (10%)
Expert Exam Tips:
“Focus on road signs identification, overtaking rules, speed limits, and penalty amounts. These topics consistently appear in 60% of questions.” – Driving Instructor, Kathmandu DOTM
Phase 6: Practical Driving Test (Trial Exam)
Nepal’s driving tests are now based on points; gain at least 70 points to pass the trial exam. The trial is held on the next day of the written test.
Trial Exam Components:
For Two-Wheelers (Motorcycle/Scooter):
- Starting and stopping (10 points)
- Balancing and slow riding (15 points)
- Figure-8 maneuver (15 points)
- U-turn execution (10 points)
- Emergency braking (10 points)
- Traffic sign recognition while riding (10 points)
- Parking (10 points)
- Overall vehicle control (20 points)
- Total: 100 points | Pass Mark: 70 points
For Four-Wheelers (Car/Light Vehicle):
- Starting on slope (15 points)
- Parallel parking (20 points)
- Reverse parking (15 points)
- Lane discipline (10 points)
- Turning and signals (10 points)
- Speed control (10 points)
- Road awareness (10 points)
- Overall driving assessment (10 points)
- Total: 100 points | Pass Mark: 70 points
Retrial Policy: An applicant can attend retrial exam maximum of three times within 90 days from the first trial failed date.
Smart Card Driving License Collection
Digital driving licenses are valid for 5 years from the date of issue for all categories.
License Printing Timeline
Current Processing Status:
- Standard Processing: 6-18 months (high demand)
- Urgent Processing: Available free of charge for specific cases
- SMS Notification: Automatic alert when license is printed
- Collection: From issuing DOTM office with original documents
Temporary Driving Permission: After passing both exams and paying license fees, you receive a temporary driving slip that legally allows you to drive within Nepal until your smart card is ready.
Smart Card Features
The new digital driving license includes:
- Embedded microchip with encrypted data
- Holographic security features
- QR code for instant verification
- Biometric authentication linkage
- International driving permit compatible
Online License Renewal Process 2025
Driving licenses must be renewed within 90 days after expiry to avoid retaking all exams.
Renewal Requirements:
- Valid expired license (within 90 days)
- Updated medical certificate
- Recent passport photographs
- Online renewal application
- Renewal fee: NPR 1,000
Early Renewal Benefit: If your license expires in March 2025, you can renew it in January 2025, and your next renewal will be in January 2029 instead of March.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Top 10 Application Errors
- Incorrect Citizenship Details: Ensure name spelling matches exactly
- Wrong Mobile Number: Use only your registered personal number
- Poor Quality Scans: Documents must be clear and readable
- Mismatched Information: All documents should have consistent data
- Missing Application Deadline: Forms close when quota fills
- Ignoring Medical Requirements: Certificate must be from authorized clinic
- Late Fee Payment: Pay within specified timeframe after application
- Incorrect Category Selection: Choose appropriate vehicle type
- Not Updating MOHA Records: Fix citizenship data before applying
- Multiple Account Creation: Creates verification issues
Technical Troubleshooting Guide
Common Portal Issues & Solutions
Problem 1: MPIN Not Received
- Solution: Wait 5 minutes, check spam/blocked messages, click “Resend MPIN”
Problem 2: Application Form Not Opening
- Solution: Forms open every 16 days from 7 AM. Check if within application window and quota availability
Problem 3: Document Upload Failing
- Solution: Reduce file size below 500KB, convert to accepted formats, clear browser cache
Problem 4: Payment Processing Error
- Solution: Use alternative payment method, check internet stability, try different browser
System Requirements:
- Browser: Chrome 90+, Firefox 85+, Safari 14+
- Internet Speed: Minimum 2 Mbps stable connection
- JavaScript: Must be enabled
- Cookies: Allow cookies from dotm.gov.np domain
- Pop-ups: Enable for payment gateways
DOTM Contact Information & Support
The Department of Transport Management operates at Minbhawan, Kathmandu, and can be reached at phone numbers 014574921 and 014574922, with email support available at gunaso@dotm.gov.np.
Regional DOTM Offices:
| Province | Office Location | Contact Number | Service Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bagmati | Minbhawan, Kathmandu | 01-4574921 | Sun-Wed |
| Gandaki | Pokhara | 061-521414 | Sun-Wed |
| Province 1 | Dhankuta | 026-520223 | Sun-Wed |
| Madhesh | Janakpur | 041-520398 | Sun-Wed |
| Lumbini | Butwal | 071-540223 | Sun-Wed |
| Karnali | Surkhet | 083-520123 | Sun-Wed |
| Sudurpashchim | Dhangadhi | 091-523456 | Sun-Wed |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the complete online driving license process take?
The entire process from online registration to the trial exam typically takes 3-4 days to complete. However, receiving your physical license card can take more than 1 year due to high printing demand.
Can I apply for multiple vehicle categories simultaneously?
No, you can only apply for one vehicle category at a time. After passing the trial for one category, you can apply for category addition later.
What happens if I fail the trial exam three times?
If you fail all three retrial attempts within 90 days, you must restart the entire application process from the beginning after a mandatory 90-day waiting period.
Is online application mandatory for driving license?
While not mandatory, online application significantly reduces processing time and waiting periods.
Can I track my license printing status online?
Yes, login to https://applydl.dotm.gov.np and check the “License Print Status” section using your application reference number.
What is the validity of temporary driving slip?
The temporary slip is valid until your smart card license is issued and can be used for driving within Nepal legally.
Do I need to give written exam for category addition?
Drivers who have obtained license class Power Tiller (D), Tractor (E), Minibus, Truck, and Bus (F, G) must give a written exam when adding any other class.
Can foreigners apply for Nepal driving license?
Only Nepalese citizens with valid citizenship certificates can apply through the standard process. Foreigners require international driving permits.
How to check if my application was successful?
Check your registered email and mobile for confirmation SMS. Also login to your DOTM account to view application status.
What if I lose my temporary driving slip?
Visit your application office with your application reference number and original citizenship to request a duplicate slip.
Expert Tips for Faster Approval
Professional Recommendations
- Apply During Off-Peak Hours: Submit applications between 8-10 PM when server load is lower
- Complete Medical First: Get medical certificate before starting online application
- Practice Mock Tests: Use available online resources for written exam preparation
- Visit Office Early: Arrive 30 minutes before scheduled biometric appointment
- Keep Documents Ready: Maintain digital and physical copies of all documents
- Follow Up Regularly: Check application status weekly through portal
- Join Application Groups: Facebook groups share quota opening information
- Verify MOHA Data: Check citizenship details in government database beforehand
- Use Chrome Browser: Most stable experience reported with Google Chrome
- Save All Receipts: Keep payment confirmations for reference
“Applicants who submit complete, error-free applications with high-quality document scans get 85% faster approval compared to those requiring resubmission.” – DOTM Processing Officer
Legal Framework & Compliance
The online driving license system operates under:
- Motor Vehicle and Transport Management Act, 2049 (1993)
- Transport Management Rules, 2054 (1997)
- Digital Governance Act, 2076 (2019)
All applications must comply with current legal frameworks and regulations set by the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport.
Future Developments in Nepal’s License System
Upcoming Features (2025-2026):
- AI-powered document verification
- Blockchain-based license verification
- Mobile app with offline capabilities
- Biometric driving simulators for testing
- Integration with international driving permit systems
- Real-time quota availability notifications
- Video KYC for document verification
Conclusion: Get Your Online Driving License Today
Nepal’s online driving license application system has revolutionized the licensing process, making it more accessible, transparent, and efficient. By following this comprehensive guide with verified 2025 information, you can successfully navigate the application process from registration to smart card collection.
Key Takeaways: Apply through official portal: https://applydl.dotm.gov.np Ensure documents match MOHA records Prepare thoroughly for written and practical exams Track application status regularly Maintain patience during license printing phase
Start your driving license application in Nepal today and join thousands of legally certified drivers contributing to safer roads across the country.
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Last Updated: October 2025 | Authority Source: Department of Transport Management, Nepal
