Your biometric appointment at DOTM is one of the most important steps in getting your Nepal driving license. A single mistake or missed document on biometric day can delay your smart card by weeks. This guide tells you exactly what to expect and how to prepare.
What Happens on Biometric Day?
Biometric day is your first in-person visit to the DOTM office after completing your online application. During this appointment, DOTM staff will:
- Verify all your original documents against your online submission
- Capture your 10 fingerprints digitally
- Take your official photograph for the smart card
- Assign your licence number (your permanent tracking number)
- Issue your token slip for the written exam
What Documents to Bring
Missing even one original document means you cannot proceed and must rebook. Bring:
- Original Citizenship Certificate — front and back
- Original Medical Certificate — from a registered doctor, dated within 6 months
- Original Blood Group Certificate — from a certified lab
- 2 Passport-size Photographs — white background, no glasses, taken within 3 months
- Payment Receipt — online payment confirmation (printed or on phone)
- Appointment Slip — your biometric booking confirmation
Important: Bring originals and photocopies of everything. DOTM will keep the photocopies and return your originals after verification.
How Long Does Biometric Day Take?
| Activity | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Queue and token collection | 15–45 minutes |
| Document verification by staff | 10–15 minutes |
| Fingerprint and photo capture | 5–10 minutes |
| Token slip issuance | 5 minutes |
| Total (typical) | 45 min – 2 hours |
Busy offices like Ekantakuna (Kathmandu) can take 3–4 hours during peak periods. Arrive early — most offices open at 10:00 AM and begin token distribution from 9:30 AM.
Tips for a Smooth Biometric Visit
Arrive Early
DOTM offices work on token-based queuing. The earlier you arrive, the earlier your token number, and the faster you are processed. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before official opening time.
Dress Appropriately for Your Photo
Your biometric photo goes directly onto your smart card. The DOTM camera takes your photo as-is. Wear something presentable. Avoid all-white tops (they blend into the background) and face-covering accessories.
Clean Your Fingerprints
Wash your hands before arriving. Do not apply hand cream or lotion on the day — these interfere with fingerprint scanners. If you have cuts or bandages on your fingers, inform the staff and they will work around it.
Double-Check Your Name Before Verification
When the staff reads your details back to you from the screen, confirm that your name, DOB, and citizenship number match your documents exactly. If there is an error, point it out immediately before biometrics are captured. Corrections after biometric capture require a formal request and delay your processing.
What Happens After Biometric Day?
After your biometrics are captured:
- Your file enters DOTM's internal processing queue (status: Pending)
- Within 7–15 working days, your written exam (Likhit) is scheduled
- After passing written exam, the trial (practical) test is scheduled
- After passing trial, smart card printing begins
You can start tracking your status at LicensePrintCheck.com from the day after your biometric appointment.
What If You Miss Your Biometric Appointment?
If you cannot attend on your booked date, log back into the DOTM portal and reschedule your appointment before the date passes. Rescheduling is allowed. However, if the date passes without attendance and without rescheduling, you may need to contact DOTM to reactivate your slot — which can cause a delay of several weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone else attend biometrics on my behalf?
No. Biometrics require your physical presence. No proxy is accepted under any circumstances.
What if my fingerprints are rejected by the scanner?
Inform the DOTM staff immediately. They have a manual override protocol for difficult fingerprints (worn, injured, or aged prints). This may add time but will not disqualify you.
Will I get my licence number the same day?
Yes. Your licence number (licence no.) is assigned during the biometric session and printed on your token slip. Save this slip — you need this number to track your print status.
Is the written exam (Likhit) on the same day?
Not usually. The written exam is scheduled separately, typically within 1–4 weeks of your biometric appointment. You will receive a notification from DOTM with your exam date.
Can I bring a family member or friend for support?
Yes, but only the applicant is allowed inside the biometric capture area. Companions can wait in the general waiting area.
