Nepal driving licenses must be renewed periodically. Missing the renewal deadline means driving illegally and paying penalty fees. This guide covers the complete renewal process for 2026 — whether you are renewing a motorcycle, car, or commercial vehicle license — including the online steps, fees, documents, and grace period rules.
When Does Your Nepal Driving License Expire?
Nepal driving license validity depends on your age at the time of renewal:
| Age Group | License Validity |
|---|---|
| Under 60 years | 5 years from issue/last renewal date |
| 60 years and above | 1 year (annual renewal required) |
Your expiry date is printed on your smart card. You can also check it on the DOTM portal under your profile.
Grace Period and Late Penalties
You have a 35-day grace period after the expiry date to renew without any penalty fee. After the grace period:
- NPR 200 per year of delay is added to the renewal fee
- If more than 5 years have elapsed since expiry, you may be required to re-sit the written exam
Important: Driving on an expired license (even within the grace period) is technically illegal under Nepal traffic law. Renew as soon as possible after your expiry date.
Documents Required for Renewal
- Original driving license (the card you are renewing)
- Citizenship certificate — original + photocopy
- Fresh medical certificate — from a registered doctor, dated within 3 months of your renewal application
- Passport-size photograph — 1–2 recent copies
- Renewal fee payment receipt — from the DOTM portal
Renewal Fees
| Category | Renewal Fee (On Time) | Late Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Category A (Motorcycle) | NPR 1,500 | + NPR 200/year overdue |
| Category B (Car/Jeep) | NPR 2,000 | + NPR 200/year overdue |
| Category C / D (Commercial) | NPR 2,000 | + NPR 200/year overdue |
| A + B (Combined) | NPR 3,500 | + NPR 200/year overdue |
Step-by-Step: How to Renew Nepal Driving License Online in 2026
Step 1: Log into the DOTM Portal
Visit applydlnew.dotm.gov.np. If you applied for your original license through this portal, use your existing login. If you have an older license (pre-portal era), you may need to create a new account linked to your license number.
Step 2: Select Renewal Application
In your dashboard, select Renewal and choose the license categories you want to renew. Enter your existing license number to link the renewal.
Step 3: Update Personal Information
Review and confirm your personal details. If your citizenship number or address has changed since your original application, update it here with supporting documents.
Step 4: Upload Renewal Documents
Upload your fresh medical certificate and a current photograph. All previous biometric data is already in the system — you typically do not need to attend biometrics again for a standard renewal.
Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fee
Pay online through ConnectIPS, eSewa, Khalti, or internet banking. Save your payment receipt.
Step 6: Book an Appointment (If Required)
Some offices require an in-person visit to submit original documents even for online renewals. Check if your chosen DOTM office requires this — it varies by location. Kathmandu offices increasingly process renewals fully online; provincial offices often still require a visit.
Step 7: Receive Your Renewed Smart Card
Your renewed smart card is printed and sent to your transport office within 15–30 working days. Track its status at LicensePrintCheck.com.
Can I Drive While My Renewal is Being Processed?
Yes, with limitations. Once you have submitted your renewal application and have the payment receipt, you can use the receipt as temporary proof that renewal is in progress. However, carry your existing (expired) license too — some traffic officers may still flag an expired card.
Renewal for Nepalis Living Abroad
If you are outside Nepal and your license expires, you can submit a renewal application online but must have someone in Nepal submit original documents on your behalf. DOTM currently does not accept digitally signed or embassy-notarized documents for this purpose — physical presence or a trusted proxy is required for document submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. You can apply for renewal up to 6 months before your expiry date. The new validity period starts from your original expiry date, not from the renewal date — so you do not lose any validity by renewing early.
Do I need to take any exams for renewal?
No, for standard renewals within 5 years of expiry. If your license has been expired for more than 5 years, you may need to retake the written exam.
Will I get a new smart card or just a sticker on my old one?
A completely new smart card is issued with your updated expiry date. Your old card is cancelled when you collect the new one.
What if my original license is damaged and I need both a renewal and a replacement?
Handle the renewal first — DOTM will issue a new card as part of the renewal. You do not need a separate duplicate license application if renewing at the same time.
