So, the other day I decided it was finally time to get my Nepali driving license sorted. I’d been putting it off, but with things getting busier, having that license was becoming a necessity. I started like most people do these days, by hitting up the internet to figure out the process.
I found out that the Department of Transport Management (DOTM) in Nepal has this online system for new driving license registrations. Seemed straightforward enough. They launched it back in 2016, so I figured it must be a pretty smooth process by now. I went to their official website to start the application.
First thing I did was fill up the online form. It asked for the usual stuff – name, address, contact details, you know the drill. I made sure to double-check everything because you don’t want any mistakes on official documents. After filling it all in, I submitted the form. Then, the website generated a registration number and a date for my visit.
- Filled out the online application form on the DOTM website.
- Double-checked all my details.
- Submitted the form and got a registration number and a date to visit the office.
Next, I had to actually go to the transport management office. I chose the nearest one to me, hoping to save some time. I printed out the registration confirmation and gathered all the required documents – citizenship certificate, photos, the whole shebang. Made sure I had everything in a folder to keep it organized. This office was pretty crowded, but I managed to submit my application and documents. The staff there helped to check my registration, then they took my biometric details and photo there, on the spot.
After that, I had to pay the application fee. I paid that in cash. They gave me a receipt, which I kept safely with the rest of my documents. The next step was passing the written exam. I’d done some practice tests online, so I felt somewhat prepared. Thankfully, I passed! Then came the driving trial. I’d been practicing with my friend’s car, so I was feeling pretty confident. And guess what? I passed that too!
Now, I just had to wait for my license to be processed. I found out about this neat trick where you can check the status of your license. You just type ‘LC’ followed by your license ID number and send it to 31003. It costs around 5 rupees, but it’s super convenient. I got a text back saying my license was printed!
Getting the physical license
I went back to the office to collect my license. There was a bit of a wait, but finally, they handed me my brand-new Nepali driving license! It felt great to finally have it in my hands after all that. Now I can drive legally and more conveniently. Plus, I heard that traffic police will accept digital licenses through the Nagarik App, which is pretty cool.
Overall, it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. The online system really helps streamline the process. If you’re planning to get your Nepali driving license, just follow these steps, and you should be good to go! It’s a bit of a process, but totally worth it in the end.