Everything you need to get your driving licence in Nepal — licence categories, step-by-step application process, written exam tips, trial exam rules, road signs and a free practice quiz.
Licence Categories
Simple Steps
Free Quiz Questions
Free Study Guide
Choose the category that matches the vehicle you want to drive.
Motorcycle, Scooter, Moped
Two-wheelers. Trial includes zig-zag lane ride and figure track without touching lines.
Car, Jeep, Van, Micro, Pickup
Light four-wheelers. Trial includes T-turn, forward and reverse parking.
Bus, Truck, Lorry
Heavy vehicles. Requires higher skill level and separate written + practical exams.
Tempo, Auto-rickshaw
Three-wheelers used for passenger and goods transport.
Other special categories: E (Tractor), F (Road Roller), G (Heavy Equipment like dozer & loader).
Step-by-step application process.
Visit dotm.gov.np (or the New Driving Licence portal) and fill the online form. Choose your licence category carefully.
Take a printout of the submitted form, attach required documents and visit the Yatayat Karyalaya (Transport Management Office) for biometric capture.
A basic vision test is done at the office. People with disabilities or medical conditions must submit a health report from a certified hospital.
Digital screen-based multiple choice test covering traffic rules, signs, symbols and road safety. Prepare using our free quiz below!
Two-wheeler: ride the marked track (zig-zag / narrow bridge) without stopping or putting feet down. Four-wheeler: complete T-turn, slope and parking tasks.
After passing both exams you receive a temporary licence slip. The printed smart driving card can be collected once ready (check status online).
Check these before applying for your licence.
These signs are frequently asked in the written exam.
Come to a complete stop before proceeding.
Road ahead is closed for your direction.
Slow down and let other traffic pass first.
Maximum speed allowed on this road (km/h).
Parking is permitted in this zone.
Overtaking other vehicles is prohibited.
Triangular signs warn about danger ahead.
Green rectangles guide directions & facilities.
Test yourself with 10 sample questions based on Nepal traffic rules.
You apply online through the Department of Transport Management website (dotm.gov.np) and then visit your district's Transport Management Office (Yatayat Karyalaya) for document submission and biometric.
If you fail the written (Likhit) exam, you can reappear in the next scheduled exam date by submitting the re-exam fee. Your application remains valid for the stated period.
You are usually allowed to retake the trial exam within the same application validity after paying the trial fee again. Touching lines, stopping mid-track or placing feet down causes failure.
Nepal does not issue a separate learner's permit like other countries. You directly prepare for the written exam after biometric registration.
A Nepali smart driving licence is generally valid for 5 years for private vehicles and 2 years for commercial/public vehicles, after which it must be renewed.
Yes, renewal applications can be started online through dotm.gov.np, but you must visit the office for verification and fee payment as required.
Vision clarity and colour blindness are tested. If you wear glasses, bring them. Serious vision problems require a hospital health report.