Getting a driving license in Nepal involves theory (Likhit) and practical (trial) exams. The process has moved to online appointments in many offices. Here’s a practical guide for 2026.
Before you start
A Nepali driving license is issued by the Department of Transport Management (DoTM) through its transport management offices. The licence proves that you have passed the required theory and practical tests for the category you applied for. It is not the same as a learner’s permit, and driving without the correct licence can lead to fines, vehicle seizure, and insurance problems.
The process rewards preparation. Most delays come from missing documents, a failed photo, or an appointment that was booked for the wrong office, not from the exams themselves.
Check your eligibility
- Age eligibility: As per category (e.g., motorcycle/car) — check current DoTM rules
- Citizenship: Valid Nepali citizenship certificate
- Training: From an authorized driving school (as required)
- Knowledge: Traffic rules, signs, and safe driving
- Medical fitness: You should be fit to drive; disclose any condition that affects control of a vehicle
Rules differ by category. A motorcycle licence and a car licence have different minimum ages and training requirements, so confirm the current rule for the category you want before paying any fee.
Common licence categories
| Category | Typical vehicle | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| A | Motorcycle/scooter | Popular first licence for many applicants |
| B | Car, jeep, light delivery vehicle | Requires practical training in a similar vehicle |
| C | Truck/medium goods vehicle | Higher eligibility and training requirements |
| D | Bus/large passenger vehicle | Additional testing and experience requirements |
Category names and rules can be revised. Always check the current DoTM notice rather than relying on an old table.
Documents to prepare
- Citizenship certificate (original and copy)
- Passport-size photographs to the required specification
- Training certificate from an authorised driving school, if required for your category
- Application details matching your citizenship exactly
- Fee payment receipt or transaction reference
- Medical or fitness document if requested
- Old licence, if you are applying for an additional category
Use the same spelling of your name everywhere. If your citizenship has an old address, carry a current address proof if the office asks for it. Keep a folder with originals and two sets of copies.
Apply online (general steps)
- Check official portal: Visit dotm.gov.np for the current online application system and notices.
- Create/register: Register with required details.
- Apply for license: Select category (A, B, K, etc.), fill form, upload documents/photos as per specs.
- Pay fees: Pay prescribed fee online or as instructed.
- Get appointment: Book appointment for biometric/photo and/or exams.
- Attend exams: Take Likhit (written) exam. If passed, take trial (practical).
- License issuance: Follow instructions for smart/license card collection.
Book the appointment at an office you can realistically reach on time. Slots are limited, and missing an appointment can mean waiting for the next available date. Save the appointment slip on your phone and print a copy.
The Likhit exam
The written exam tests traffic signs, rules, right-of-way, penalties, and safety. It is usually computer-based or on a printed sheet depending on the office. You need a pass mark set by the current rules, so aim well above the minimum rather than guessing.
How to prepare
- Practice: Use the Nepal Driving License Likhit Mock Test on this site.
- Study signs: Know mandatory, cautionary, and informative signs.
- Know rules: Focus on common questions from practice tests.
- Learn the penalties: Fines and licence suspension rules appear in exams.
- Revise daily: Twenty focused minutes a day beats one long cramming session.
Read each question carefully. Words like “must”, “should”, and “never” change the answer. If the system allows you to skip and return, answer the easy questions first.
The trial (practical exam)
The trial checks whether you can control the vehicle safely. Depending on the category and office, it may include starting, moving off, turning, reversing, parking, and a route with traffic signs.
- Practice: Get enough practice at a driving school in a similar vehicle.
- Know the course: Learn the standard trial route/pattern used at your office.
- Stay calm: Follow examiner instructions clearly.
- Check the vehicle: Adjust the seat, mirrors, and controls before starting.
- Avoid showmanship: Smooth, predictable driving scores better than speed.
If you fail, ask what went wrong and how soon you can rebook. A failed trial is not the end of the process, but it does cost time and another fee.
Timeline and costs
| Stage | Typical timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Training | One to three weeks | Depends on the school and category |
| Online application | Same day | Subject to portal availability |
| Appointment | Days to weeks | Office and season dependent |
| Likhit exam | On the appointment date | Bring original documents |
| Trial | Usually after passing Likhit | May be on the same or a later date |
| Smart card issuance | Weeks after passing | Follow the office’s collection notice |
Fees are set by the government and can change. Budget for training, the application fee, exam fees, and smart card charges separately. Keep every receipt until the card is in your hand.
Common issues
- Slots fill up: Check appointments regularly.
- Document mismatch: Ensure details match citizenship.
- System changes: DoTM updates portals frequently — always follow current notices.
- Wrong category: Applying for a car licence when you trained on a motorcycle, or vice versa, wastes a slot.
- Expired training certificate: Check the validity before applying.
After you pass
Follow the instructions for biometrics, photograph, and smart card collection. Carry the receipt or temporary document the office gives you. Once the card arrives, check the name, date of birth, category, and expiry date immediately. Report errors before you leave the counter.
Remember that a licence has conditions. Carry it while driving, follow the category restrictions, and renew before expiry. Traffic police can verify a licence digitally in many cases, but a physical card or the official temporary document is still the safest thing to carry.
Checklist
- Check current process on dotm.gov.np
- Confirm age and category eligibility
- Complete training from authorized school
- Practice Likhit with mock tests
- Book appointment and bring original documents
- Practice trial route
- Keep all receipts until the smart card is collected
Rules and procedures change; verify with your local DoTM office for the latest requirements.
