Nepal’s digital driving license revolution: No more physical cards required with Nagarik App

KATHMANDU : In a significant leap toward digital transformation, Nepal has introduced a revolutionary update to its driving license system. Citizens will now be able to show their driving licenses directly from their smartphones via the Nagarik App, eliminating the need to carry a physical license card. This move is part of the government’s broader strategy to digitize essential services, making them more accessible and convenient for the public.

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli made the announcement through his social media platforms, revealing the new provision that allows individuals to use the Nagarik App to display their driving license details during traffic inspections. This change marks a significant improvement in the way traffic regulations are enforced in Nepal, and it reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing its systems in line with global digital trends.

A Step Toward Digital Convenience

The new system is expected to reduce the hassle for drivers, who previously had to carry a physical copy of their driving license at all times. Now, after passing the driving test, drivers can rely solely on the Nagarik App to store and display their license information. The app will contain all the necessary details, including a QR code, which can be easily scanned by traffic police for verification.

Prime Minister Oli highlighted the convenience of the new system, stating, “Drivers who pass the trial test will no longer need a physical license card. This system will allow them to display their licenses through the Nagarik App.”

The app-based system will also be equipped to handle traffic violations. Previously, if a driver was found violating traffic rules, they were required to present the original, physical license. However, with the new update, even in cases of traffic violations, a physical copy is no longer necessary. Traffic police will now accept digital licenses displayed via the Nagarik App, streamlining the process.

Solving License Printing Delays

The implementation of the digital license system comes at a crucial time when Nepal has been facing significant delays in the printing and distribution of physical driving licenses. Drivers often had to wait for extended periods due to backlogs at the Transport Management Offices. With the new system, these delays will no longer be an issue, as the Nagarik App provides an immediate and digital alternative.

“This new system eliminates the need for physical license printing and makes paying fines much more convenient. Tomorrow, we will begin this initiative as a pilot program from the Bagmati Province Transport Management Office,” Prime Minister Oli added.

The pilot program will allow the government to test the functionality and user experience of the app, with plans to expand its services across the country in the future. Officials have expressed optimism that this system will set a new standard for digital governance in Nepal and offer a streamlined solution for traffic management.

Enhancing Traffic Rule Enforcement

Alongside the digital license feature, the Nagarik App is also integrated with options for digital payment of fines. If a driver is caught violating traffic rules, they will be able to pay the fine immediately using digital payment methods within the app. This removes the inconvenience of having to physically visit a traffic office to pay fines.

This feature is expected to increase efficiency and transparency in the handling of traffic violations while also reducing the burden on drivers who previously faced long lines and cumbersome processes when resolving fines.

Expanding Digital Services in Nepal

The introduction of the digital driving license system is part of the government’s broader effort to expand the services offered through the Nagarik App. The app, which already includes various government services, is expected to grow further to cover more areas such as tax payment, social security, and identity verification.

Oli emphasized that this development is aimed at reducing the need for in-person visits to government offices, a common pain point for citizens. “We are working to expand the services on the Nagarik App to free people from the inconvenience of waiting in lines for various services,” the Prime Minister said.

A Leap in Digital Governance

The government hopes that the Nagarik App will serve as a cornerstone of digital transformation in Nepal, providing faster, more efficient services to the public while minimizing the reliance on physical documents. “We hope this system will help improve the delivery of services to citizens,” Oli stated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to using technology to simplify governance.

This move is expected to be a game-changer for Nepal’s transport sector and a significant step toward digitizing essential services in the country. As the program rolls out, it is anticipated to have a positive impact on both citizens and the administrative process, streamlining the country’s transport management and paving the way for future digital initiatives.