Losing your Nepal smart card driving license — or having it severely damaged — is stressful, but the replacement process through DOTM is straightforward. Your biometric data and license records are stored permanently in the DOTM system, so you do not lose your license history. This guide covers everything you need to do in 2026.
Lost vs Damaged: Which Process Applies?
| Situation | Process | Extra Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Lost license | Duplicate application | Police report required |
| Damaged license (unreadable) | Duplicate application | Surrender damaged card |
| Damaged license (partially readable) | Duplicate application | Surrender damaged card |
| Stolen license | Duplicate application | Police FIR report required |
Documents Required for Duplicate License
- Police report — For lost or stolen licenses, file a report at your nearest police station and bring the original report or certified copy
- Citizenship certificate — Original + photocopy (front and back)
- Passport-size photographs — 2 recent copies, white background
- Application fee receipt — From the DOTM portal (paid online)
- Affidavit — A notarized affidavit stating that the license was lost and that you are the rightful owner (required by most transport offices; some may waive this)
- Damaged card — If damaged, surrender the original card to DOTM during your visit
Tip: If you still have your original application receipt or know your license number, bring it. Your license number speeds up the DOTM lookup process considerably.
How to Get a Police Report (For Lost License)
- Visit your nearest police station (Ward Police Office or District Police Office)
- Report that your driving license was lost or stolen, stating your name, license number (if known), and approximate date of loss
- The police will give you a loss report or FIR (First Information Report) on letterhead with a stamp
- Make a photocopy and keep the original safe — you need to submit the original or a certified copy to DOTM
Step-by-Step: Applying for a Duplicate License Online
Step 1: Log into the DOTM Portal
Visit applydlnew.dotm.gov.np and log in with your original account credentials. If you do not remember your login, use the mobile number you registered with to reset access via OTP.
Step 2: Select Duplicate License Application
In your dashboard, look for Duplicate License or Lost/Damaged License under the services menu. Select your license category and enter your existing license number.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Upload scanned copies of your police report, citizenship certificate, photograph, and affidavit (if required). All documents must be in JPEG or PDF format and under 500 KB.
Step 4: Pay the Duplicate License Fee
The fee for a duplicate driving license is NPR 2,000–2,500 depending on your category. Pay online via ConnectIPS, eSewa, Khalti, or internet banking. Save your payment receipt.
Step 5: Visit Your Transport Office
Unlike standard renewals, duplicate license applications typically require a physical visit to the transport office where your original license was issued. Bring all original documents for verification.
Step 6: Wait for Your New Smart Card
Once your application is accepted and documents verified, your replacement smart card enters the printing queue. Processing typically takes 15–30 working days. Track your status at LicensePrintCheck.com.
Duplicate License Fees
| Category | Duplicate Fee |
|---|---|
| Category A (Motorcycle) | NPR 2,000 |
| Category B (Car/Jeep) | NPR 2,500 |
| A + B Combined | NPR 2,500 |
| Category C / D | NPR 2,500 |
Can You Drive While Waiting for the Duplicate?
Technically no — you should not drive without a valid license document in hand. However, once your duplicate application is accepted and you have the payment receipt and application confirmation, some traffic officers may accept this as temporary proof that a replacement is in process. Always carry your application confirmation when driving during this period.
What If You Need to Renew and Get a Duplicate at the Same Time?
If your lost or damaged license is also close to expiry, DOTM recommends initiating a renewal application rather than a duplicate application. The renewal process issues a brand-new smart card anyway, making the duplicate application unnecessary. You save the duplicate fee and get a fresh validity period at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a duplicate without my old license number?
Yes, but it is harder. Without your license number, DOTM staff must manually search the database using your name, DOB, and citizenship number. Bring all these details with you and expect the process to take a bit longer.
Will the duplicate license have the same validity as my original?
Yes. The duplicate carries the same expiry date as the original lost or damaged license. You are not granted a fresh 5-year validity just by getting a duplicate — unless you combine it with a renewal.
Is there any blacklist risk if I was in an accident before losing my license?
DOTM's duplicate process is straightforward and does not involve checking for pending cases. However, if you have outstanding traffic fines or a court-ordered license suspension, those records exist in the system and may affect processing. Resolve any pending issues before applying.
How many duplicates can I apply for?
DOTM does not impose a formal limit on how many times you can apply for a duplicate, but each application costs the full fee and requires documentation. Excessive duplicate applications may attract additional scrutiny from DOTM staff.
