How to Apply for Driving License in Nepal: Test, Fees Guide 2026

Nepal Driving License Process at a Glance

The driving license process in Nepal involves checking your eligibility, submitting an online application, attending biometric verification, passing the written and trial tests, and finally receiving your smart driving license.

Before diving into the detailed steps, it helps to look at the big picture. Here is a quick summary of what the entire journey looks like from start to finish:

Now that you have a quick overview, let us break down each phase so you know exactly what to expect at every step.

How the Driving License System Works in Nepal?

Before you start your application, it helps to know how Nepal's driving license system works. The process is managed online, but different provinces have their own application portals. Understanding these basics will help you avoid common mistakes.

1. DoTM Manages the Overall Process

The Department of Transport Management (DoTM) is responsible for Nepal's driving license system. It sets the rules, manages applicant records, and issues smart driving licenses after you complete all the required steps.

2. You Must Apply Through the Right Province

Although the rules are the same across Nepal, each province has its own online application portal and transport offices. Choose the province where you plan to complete your written and trial tests.

3. Licenses Are Issued as Smart Cards

Once you pass the required tests, you'll receive a smart driving license instead of the old paper license. The card securely stores your license information and is accepted across Nepal.

4. Most of the Process Is Online

You can complete most of the application from home, including filling out the form, selecting your vehicle category, and booking an appointment. You'll only need to visit the transport office for document verification, biometric registration, and the required tests.

Who Can Apply for a Driving License in Nepal: Age Requirement

Anyone who meets the minimum age requirement for their chosen vehicle category and fulfills the necessary document requirements can apply for a driving license in Nepal.

Nepal’s motor vehicle laws set specific age limits depending on the type and size of the vehicle you want to drive. Before you fill out any forms, make sure you meet the age criteria for your target category.

Note: Always double-check that you select the exact vehicle category you need. Applying under the wrong category will require you to cancel your application and start all over again.

What Documents Are Required for a Driving License in Nepal?

Applicants should prepare their identity documents, medical records, and supporting paperwork before starting the online application. Here is the checklist of items you must gather:

• Nepali Citizenship Certificate: Original card along with clear photocopies.

• Blood Group Certificate: Official report from an authorized lab or clinic.

• Medical Fitness Certificate: Usually filled out and stamped at the transport office during your visit.

• Active Nepali Mobile Number: Required for receiving SMS updates and confirmation codes.

• Existing License: Required only if you are applying for a category addition or renewal.

• Passport-sized Photographs: Needed if requested by your local office, though digital photos are taken during biometrics.

Pro Tip: Keep digital scans (JPEG or PDF format under 500 KB) of your citizenship card saved on your phone or computer. You will need to upload them during the online application step.

Having your paperwork organized in advance saves time and prevents unwanted surprises when you visit the Yatayat office. Missing even a single required document can cause the office staff to turn you away, which means having to rebook your appointment. 

What Is the Step-by-Step Process to Get a Driving License in Nepal?

Getting a driving license in Nepal involves choosing the correct provincial portal, submitting an online application, completing document verification, passing the written and trial tests, and collecting your smart driving license. Here's what you can expect at each stage.

Step 1: Choose the Correct Provincial Portal

Start by selecting the official driving license portal for the province where you plan to complete your application and tests. Each province manages its own transport offices and online portal.

Step 2: Fill Out the Online Application

Create an account on your province's portal, complete the application form, choose your vehicle category, and book an appointment at your preferred Transport Management Office. Double-check all your details before submitting the form to avoid delays.

Step 3: Pay the Government Fee

After submitting your application, pay the required government fee using the available online payment methods or at the designated payment counter. Save your payment receipt, as you'll need it during verification.

Step 4: Visit the Transport Office

On your appointment day, visit the selected Transport Management Office with your required documents. Your identity will be verified, your biometrics will be collected, and any required medical checks will be completed.

Step 5: Take the Written Test (Likhit)

After verification, you'll take the written exam covering basic traffic rules, road signs, and road safety. Once you pass, you'll become eligible for the practical trial test.

Here’s a small table summarizing the exam format, duration, and passing marks:

Tips to Pass

• Study traffic signs and road rules.
• Practice with mock tests.
• Read each question carefully.

Step 6: Attend the Trial Test

The trial test evaluates your practical driving skills for your chosen vehicle category. Follow the examiner's instructions carefully, obey traffic signals, and maintain proper vehicle control throughout the test.

Step 7: Receive Your Smart Driving License

Once you pass the trial and pay the required fee, you'll receive a temporary receipt that allows you to drive legally until your smart driving license is ready. You can track your card's status online before collecting it from the transport office.

How Much Does a Driving License Cost in Nepal? (2026)

Effective from the fiscal year 2083/25, obtaining a new driving license costs NRs. 4,000 to NRs. 5,000 in Bagmati Province, while other provinces still generally follow the older fee structure of NRs. 2,000 to NRs. 2,500.

The total cost depends on the service requested and vehicle category, with separate fees for new applications, renewals, duplicate licenses, and category additions.

1. Driving License Fees in Nepal

Here is an overview of the typical government fees applicable across Nepal:

2. Additional Mandatory Costs at DOTM Offices

• Biometric & Medical Examination: NRs. 55 to NRs. 150 (paid at the Department of Transport Management office during biometric verification).
• Trial Center Vehicle Token: NRs. 300 to NRs. 500 (charged on the day of your practical trial if you use the center’s official vehicle).
• Smart Card Printing: NRs. 200.

3. Optional Driving School Fees

While attending a private driving center is not legally mandatory to take the Department of Transport Management (DOTM) exam, most applicants enroll in classes to pass the trial course. According to typical driving school averages across cities like Kathmandu:

• Two-Wheeler Package (Category A): NRs. 5,000 – NRs. 7,000
• Four-Wheeler Package (Category B): NRs. 7,000 – NRs. 12,000

How Long Does It Take to Get a Driving License in Nepal?

The time it takes to get a driving license in Nepal depends on appointment availability, test schedules, and smart card printing. A typical timeline looks like this:

After you submit the online form, you'll usually get an appointment within 1–2 weeks for document verification, biometric registration, and any required medical checks.

The written test is often held on the same day or within the next 1–2 days.

If you pass, you'll take the trial test, usually within 1–2 weeks. After passing the trial and paying the required fee, your smart driving license is typically printed within 24 hours.

Until you receive the card, you can legally drive using the temporary receipt.

Tip: Book your appointment early to reduce waiting time, as availability varies by province and transport office.

How Do You Renew a Driving License in Nepal?

You can renew your driving license in Nepal by applying online, submitting the required documents, paying the renewal fee, and visiting the transport office to complete the renewal process.

Renewing your driving license is much simpler than applying for a new one. If your license is nearing its expiry date, follow these steps to keep it valid.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

You can usually apply for renewal up to 90 days before your license expires or within the government-approved grace period after expiry. Renewing on time helps you avoid additional penalties.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

Before starting your application, keep these documents ready:

• Original driving license
• Citizenship certificate (or photocopy, if required)
• Medical or vision certificate (if applicable)
• Recent passport-size photograph (if requested)

Step 3: Submit Your Renewal Application

Log in to your province's official driving license portal, choose the License Renewal option, enter your license details, and complete the online application.

Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee

Pay the applicable renewal fee through the available online payment options or at the designated Transport Management Office, depending on your province's process.

Step 5: Complete Verification and Collect Your License

Visit the transport office if you're asked to complete document verification, biometric updates, or other formalities. After your renewal is approved, you'll receive a temporary receipt while your new smart driving license is being printed.

Tip: Renew your driving license before it expires whenever possible. Late renewals may require additional fees and can delay the issuance of your new smart license.

How Do You Add a New Vehicle Category to Your Driving License?

If you already have a valid driving license, you can add another vehicle category by submitting an application, completing the required formalities, and passing the necessary test for the new category.

For example, if you already have a motorcycle license and want to drive a car, you can apply for a category addition instead of starting the entire licensing process from the beginning.

The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Make sure you have a valid driving license for your current vehicle category.

2. Prepare the required documents: Keep your existing driving license, citizenship certificate, and any other required documents ready.

3. Submit the application: Log in to your province's driving license portal, select Category Addition, choose the new vehicle category, and complete the application.

4. Pay the required fee: Pay the applicable government fee for adding a new vehicle category.

5. Complete the required test: Depending on the category you're adding, you'll usually need to pass the practical trial test. Some cases may also require additional verification or assessments.

6. Receive your updated license: Once you successfully complete the process, your smart driving license will be updated with the new vehicle category.

Tip: Check the latest DoTM guidelines before applying, as the requirements for written tests, trial tests, and supporting documents may vary depending on the vehicle category you are adding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Driving License Process

To ensure your journey goes smoothly, keep an eye out for these frequent pitfalls:

• Filling out the online form with details that do not match your official citizenship certificate.
• Forgetting to bring printed copies of your application slip and digital payment receipts to the office.
• Missing your assigned biometric appointment date, which forces you to rebook.
• Rushing through the trial course without paying attention to boundary lines or signaling.
• Neglecting to practice parallel parking or slope restarts before the car trial test.

By staying organized and preparing ahead of time, you can easily avoid these minor mistakes and pass on your first try!