Renewing your driving license in Nepal is an essential process that every driver must undertake every five years. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps, required documents, fees, and additional information to ensure a smooth renewal experience. As a digital solution provider, we also offer services like obtaining an international driving permit, which can benefit drivers planning to drive abroad.
Understanding the Renewal Process
The driving license in Nepal has a validity period of five years. It is crucial to renew your license before or just after its expiration date to avoid penalties. If you fail to renew within 90 days after expiration, you may incur fines, and if the license remains unrenewed for over five years, it will be cancelled entirely.
Steps to Renew Your Driving License
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the steps you need to follow:
- Visit the Department of Transport Management (DOTM) Office
- Obtain an EDL Print or Token
- Biometric Verification
- Medical Test
- Payment of Renewal Fees
- Required Documents
Visit the Department of Transport Management (DOTM) Office
You must go to the DOTM office where your original license was issued. For instance, if you received your license in Kathmandu, you must return there for renewal.
Obtain an EDL Print or Token
Upon arrival at the DOTM office, take a token from the token system to manage the queue. Request an EDL print from the designated room (often marked on boards within the office) to initiate your renewal process.
Biometric Verification
After receiving your token, proceed with biometric verification. This includes providing a recent photograph, digital thumbprint, and digital signature. The officers will compare these with your previous records.
Medical Test
You will undergo a medical test focused on eyesight and colour blindness. If you fail this test, you will need to return with a doctor’s recommendation letter.
Payment of Renewal Fees
Finally, calculate and pay your renewal fees based on your license category:
Two-wheelers: Rs 1500
Small vehicles (cars, vans): Rs 2000
Heavy vehicles: Rs 2500
Higher categories (G to H): Rs 3000
Note that fines apply if you are renewing after the grace period of 90 days.
Required Documents
To successfully renew your driving license in Nepal, ensure you have the following documents:
Original Citizenship Certificate: Required for identity verification.
Original Driving License: The document that needs renewal.
There is no longer a requirement for photocopies or stamps as part of the renewal process.
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Important Considerations
Grace Period: You have a 90-day grace period post-expiration during which you can renew your license without incurring fines. After this period, fines increase significantly based on how late the renewal is performed.
Online Services: Currently, while appointments can be made online for certain services, physical presence at the DOTM office is mandatory for biometric data collection and final processing of the renewal.
Waiting Time: The process typically takes about 30-45 minutes depending on the time of day and crowd levels at the DOTM office.
Future Changes
The Nepalese government is considering extending the validity period of driving licenses from five years to ten years. This change aims to simplify the renewal process and reduce administrative burdens on both citizens and government offices.
Conclusion
Renewing your driving license in Nepal is a straightforward process if you follow these steps carefully. As a digital solution provider, we can assist you with not only renewing your driving license but also obtaining an international driving permit for those travelling abroad. For further assistance or inquiries regarding our services, feel free to contact us.
By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that your driving privileges remain uninterrupted while complying with local regulations.
Learn about International Driving Permit