Driving License Application
Complete guide for applying for a new Two-Wheeler (Category A/K) or Four-Wheeler (Category B) license in Nepal.
Overview
Obtaining a driving license in Nepal is managed by the Department of Transport Management (DoTM). The process involves online pre-registration, biometric screening, an objective written exam, and a physical trial. Under the latest July 2026 rules, the 70% passing score system is standard, making it easier to pass by penalizing minor mistakes with point deductions instead of instant failure.
1Step-by-Step Instructions
Category Selection
Select 'A' for Motorcycle, 'K' for Scooter, or 'B' for Car. Choose your nearest transport management office (Yatayat Karyalaya).
- Selecting the wrong office which has extremely long waiting lists
- Mispelling blood group
Nagarik App Sync
You can sync your online profile using the Nagarik App to pull verified identity data directly.
- Manual input discrepancies if citizenship is not synced correctly
2Document Checklist
Required Documents
0 of 5 ready
Why Applications Get Rejected
Color Blindness
Failing the color blindness test during biometrics results in immediate rejection.
Underage
Applying under 16 for Two-Wheeler or under 18 for Four-Wheeler.
Double Indicator Fault
Forgetting indicators twice in the trial deductions will push your score below 70.
3Appointment & Visit
Online Registration
Apply online at applydl.dotm.gov.np and print the slip.
Biometric & Medical
Visit the transport office on your scheduled date for photos, fingerprints, eye test, and fee payment.
Written Exam
Take the written exam (usually next morning).
Trial
If you pass the written test, take the practical trial. If you score 70+ points, you are certified.
Payment & e-License
Pay the license fee (NPR 1,500) and get a temporary paper license. Your digital license will appear in the Nagarik App.
Common Questions
Q. How does the 70% passing marks system work?
In the physical trial, you start with 100 points. Point deductions include: touching a line in the figure-8 (once = -15, twice = fail), engine stall (-15), failing to use indicators (-10), touching a line in the L-turn (-15). Major errors like failing the ramp test (stop & go) or traffic light violation result in immediate failure (0 points).
Q. What if I fail my trial exam?
If you fail the trial, you can retake it up to 3 times within 18 months from your original biometric date. You only need to pay a re-trial fee of NPR 500 at the transport office; you do not need to retake the written exam.
Q. Can I use my digital license on the Nagarik App?
Yes! Traffic police in Nepal are now officially authorized to accept the digital driving license inside the Nagarik App as a valid document if you are pulled over, even if you haven't received your physical smart card.
Q. How can I check if my physical smart card is printed?
You can check the print status on the DoTM portal or by sending an SMS: 'LC [Your License Number]' to 33001.
Q. Can I add a new category (e.g., adding Car to my Bike license)?
Yes! You can apply online to add a category. You will skip the written exam and only take the biometrics and physical trial for the new category.