🚗 Government Guide

How to Get a Driving License in Nepal (2082)

The full process for a Nepali driving licence — online application, the written Likhit exam, the practical trial, and the documents you need.

नेपालमा सवारी चालक अनुमतिपत्र (लाइसेन्स) बनाउने प्रक्रिया — अनलाइन आवेदन, लिखित परीक्षा र ट्रायल।

📅 Updated Asar 2082 (Jul 2026)🇳🇵 Nepal⏱️ 5 min read

Driving licences in Nepal are issued by the Department of Transport Management (यातायात व्यवस्था विभाग / DoTM). The process has two exam stages — a written (Likhit) test and a practical trial — and starts with an online application.

Portal: Apply online at the DoTM licence portal (applyonline.dotm.gov.np). You'll book your Likhit exam and trial dates through the system.

License Categories & Minimum Age

CategoryVehicleMinimum age
KScooter (light, gearless, ≤50cc)16 years
AMotorcycle / scooter (geared)16 years
BCar / jeep / van (private)18 years
Heavy (C/D/E)Truck / bus21+ (after experience)

Scooter / bike license age: In Nepal you can apply for a two-wheeler licence (category K light scooter or category A motorcycle) from 16 years. A private car licence (category B) requires 18 years. Always confirm the current age rule at your local transport office, as regulations are periodically updated.

Documents Required

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Register online on the DoTM portal and fill the application form.
  2. Book your Likhit (written) exam date and pay the fee.
  3. Pass the Likhit exam — multiple-choice questions on traffic signs, rules and vehicle basics.
  4. Book and attend the trial — a practical driving test on a marked course.
  5. Biometrics & printing — after passing, your photo, fingerprints and signature are captured.
  6. Collect your smart licence card when notified.

Passing the Written (Likhit) Exam

The Likhit test focuses heavily on traffic signs, right-of-way rules, and basic vehicle knowledge. Practising sign-recognition and rule-based MCQs is the fastest way to pass on the first attempt.

✅ Study the official traffic-sign chart thoroughly — a large share of Likhit questions are sign-based.

The Practical Trial

For motorcycles, the trial is usually a figure-8 / narrow-lane balance test. For cars, it includes controlled maneuvers like parking and reversing. Practise on the actual trial ground layout beforehand if you can.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a driving license in Nepal?
Register and fill the application online on the Department of Transport Management portal (applyonline.dotm.gov.np), book and pass the written Likhit exam, then pass the practical trial before your smart licence card is printed.
What is the Likhit exam?
The Likhit is the written multiple-choice test covering traffic signs, road rules and basic vehicle knowledge. A large portion of questions are about recognising traffic signs.
What documents do I need for a driving license?
Your citizenship certificate (original + copy), recent passport-size photos, blood group/medical detail as required, and your filled online application receipt.
What is the minimum age for a scooter or bike license in Nepal?
You can apply for a two-wheeler licence in Nepal from 16 years of age — this covers category K (light gearless scooters up to 50cc) and category A (motorcycles). A private car licence (category B) requires you to be 18. Confirm the current rule at your local transport office as regulations change.
What licence category do I need for a motorcycle or car?
Category A is for motorcycles/scooters, category B is for private cars/jeeps/vans, and K is for light gearless scooters. Heavy categories (C/D/E) for trucks and buses require prior experience.
How can I pass the trial on the first attempt?
Practise on the actual trial-ground layout beforehand. For motorcycles the test is usually a figure-8/balance course; for cars it includes parking and reversing maneuvers.