Getting a driving license in Nepal is a legal requirement for operating any type of motor vehicle, whether it’s a scooter, bike, car, or commercial vehicle. The process is regulated by the Department of Transport Management (DoTM) under the Ministry of Physical Infrastructure and Transport.
This guide covers how to apply, renew, check, verify, and prepare for the driving license exam in Nepal, including the official online process, exam question patterns, and practical tips.
1. Introduction to Nepal Driving License
A driving license in Nepal is an official government document that certifies you are qualified to operate a motor vehicle. It is mandatory under Nepal’s Motor Vehicle and Transport Management Act.
The license contains your name, photograph, category, license number, and validity dates.
2. Driving License Categories in Nepal
Driving licenses in Nepal are divided into different categories based on the type of vehicle:
A – Motorcycle, Scooter (up to 250cc)
B – Car, Jeep, Delivery Van
C – Tempo, Auto Rickshaw
D – Power Tiller
E – Tractor, Trailer
F – Minibus, Microbus, Minivan
G – Bus
H – Truck, Lorry
I – Road Roller
J – Fire Brigade, Ambulance
3. Eligibility Criteria for Driving License in Nepal
To apply for a driving license in Nepal, you must meet the following requirements:
Minimum Age:
Motorcycle/Scooter: 16 years
Light Vehicles (Car, Jeep): 18 years
Heavy Vehicles: 21 years
Must be physically and mentally fit.
Must have basic knowledge of traffic rules.
4. Documents Required for Application
Citizenship certificate (original & copy)
Medical fitness certificate (issued by a registered doctor)
Passport-size photographs (recent)
Filled Nepal driving license form (online or offline)
5. How to Get Driving License in Nepal – Step-by-Step Process
Here’s the official process to get a driving license in Nepal:
Online Registration
Visit the official DoTM portal: https://www.dotm.gov.np
Fill in the online Nepal driving license form.
Choose your preferred DoTM office and date for the written exam.
Document Submission & Payment
Submit required documents at your chosen DoTM office.
Pay the application and exam fee.
Written Exam
Computer-based exam with multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on traffic rules, road signs, and vehicle mechanics.
Trial/Practical Test
Includes vehicle control, turning, parking, and traffic sign interpretation.
License Issuance
If you pass both tests, your license will be issued after biometric registration.
6. Nepal Driving License Form & Online Application
The online application process has made it easier to apply for a driving license in Nepal.
Steps:
Go to the official online registration system.
Select “Driving License Online Form.“
Fill in personal details, vehicle category, and contact info.
Upload necessary documents.
Book your exam date and print the appointment slip.
7. Nepal Driving License Exam
The driving license exam in Nepal consists of two stages:
Written Test (Computer-Based): Covers traffic rules, road safety, and vehicle basics.
Practical Test (Trial): Driving in a test track with tasks like zig-zag driving, up-hill start, parallel parking, and emergency stop.
8. Nepal Driving License Exam Questions
Below are common topics for different vehicle types:
Scooter & Bike Exam Questions
Road signs and symbols
Safe overtaking rules
Emergency braking techniques
Vehicle maintenance basics
Car Exam Questions
Lane discipline and overtaking rules
Use of mirrors and indicators
Parking techniques
Traffic signal meanings
9. How to Check and Verify Nepal Driving License Online
You can verify your driving license details using the official DoTM website or mobile app.
Steps:
Go to https://www.dotm.gov.np
Navigate to “Driving License Search.”
Enter your license number and date of birth.
Click “Search” to see your license details.
10. How to Renew Nepal Driving License Online
If your license is near expiry, you can renew it online:
Visit the online driving license portal.
Fill out the renewal form.
Upload your documents and photo.
Pay the renewal fee online.
Visit DoTM office for biometric verification.
11. Nepal Driving License Mobile App for iPhone and Android
The Nepal Driving License App provides:
License details verification
Exam practice questions
Online renewal updates
Latest DoTM news
For iPhone users, download from the Apple App Store. For Android users, it’s available on Google Play Store.
12. Fees for Driving License in Nepal
Motorcycle/Scooter: NPR 500 – 1,500 (depending on category)
Car/Jeep: NPR 1,000 – 2,000
Heavy Vehicles: NPR 2,000 – 3,000
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid in License Exam
Not practicing enough before the trial.
Ignoring traffic signs during the test.
Over-speeding inside the trial ground.
Not checking mirrors before turns.
Visit the official DoTM portal, fill the renewal form, upload documents, pay fees, and attend biometric verification.
Use the DoTM website or mobile app by entering your license number and date of birth.
Go to the “Driving License Search” section on DoTM’s site or app.
Register online, pass the written and practical tests, and complete biometric registration.
Yes, it’s available in the Apple App Store.
Focus on road signs, safe riding practices, and basic vehicle maintenance.
Almost similar to bike questions, but more emphasis on scooter handling.
Computer-based multiple-choice questions covering traffic rules and safety.
Lane discipline, parking techniques, overtaking rules, and road signs.
