How to Apply for a New Driving License in Nepal

Published: ·By License Sewa

Applying for a new driving license in Nepal involves online registration, an office visit for verification, and passing written and practical exams. Follow the steps below to complete your application smoothly.

Step 1: Fill Up Your Personal Details Online

Log into the official license application system atapplydlnew.dotm.gov.npand complete your profile.

Login Process

  • Enter your mobile number and complete the Captcha
  • Enter the MPIN sent to your phone — keep this safe as it is your future login password

First-Time Login Options

  • Option 1 — Select if you have never applied before
  • Option 3 — Select if you completed biometrics or exams but have not yet received your license

Personal Information Required

  • Nationality and citizenship details
  • Upload your Citizenship Certificate (passport for foreigners)
  • Remaining personal information fields

Step 2: Book Your Office Visit

From your dashboard, select your preferences:

Select
  • Your desired license category
  • Medical option — at office or outside
  • Your preferred Transport Management Office
  • An available office visit date
Finalize
  • Submit your application
  • Download and save your application form

Step 3: Visit the Transport Management Office

On your selected appointment date, bring the following:

Documents to Bring
  • Printed application form
  • Original citizenship certificate plus a photocopy (passport for foreigners)
  • Medical certificate (if applicable)
What Happens at the Office
  • Document verification
  • Biometrics — photo, fingerprint, and signature
  • Medical check (if office-based)

Step 4: Pay the Entry Fee

You can pay through either of these options:

  • Online through the official DOTM portal
  • At the bank desk inside the Transport Management Office if online payment is unavailable

Step 5: Take the Driving License Test

The test has two parts:

Written (Likhit) Test
  • Multiple-choice questions covering traffic rules, road signs, and regulations
  • Check your results online using your applicant ID and exam date
Practical Driving Test
  • Hands-on assessment of your driving skills on a test track
  • Scheduled after passing the written test

Step 6: Receive Your Driving License

After passing both tests your license will be processed. You can receive it by mail to your registered address or pick it up directly from the Transport Management Office.

Track your license print status at any time through the License Sewa portal.

Tips & Common Mistakes

Before You Submit

  • Double-check your citizenship number
  • Make sure your mobile number is active
  • Select the correct vehicle category
  • Choose your preferred office carefully

Common Mistakes

  • Wrong citizenship details entered
  • Forgetting to select an office visit date
  • Uploading blurry or unclear documents
  • Selecting the wrong license category

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply fully online?

Registration is done online, but an office visit is mandatory for document verification and biometrics.

What if I already gave biometrics before?

Use Option 3 during login to continue your existing application as a returning applicant.

Can I pay the fee online?

Yes, online payment is available in most cases through the official DOTM portal.