DoTM Emergency Driving License Halted: Nepal Printing System Failure Impacts Applicants
11th May 2025, Kathmandu
The Department of Transport Management (DoTM) has stopped printing emergency driving licenses. The issue started on Thursday, Baisakh 25(8 May), after a technical fault occurred in the printing system.
DoTM Emergency Driving License Halted
Since then, the department has been unable to issue any emergency licenses. The suspension will last until further notice.
Specific Groups Affected
This disruption affects people who urgently need driving licenses. These include:
Students going abroad to study
Nepali workers flying overseas for jobs
Security personnel joining peacekeeping missions
Non-Resident Nepalis (NRNs) needing licenses urgently
These groups had previously received fast-track services for license printing.
Notice Issued by DoTM
On Sunday, the DoTM published an official notice. It confirmed the system failure and the temporary shutdown of the emergency printing service. The department also stated that technicians are working on the issue.
Until the problem is fixed, no emergency driving licenses will be printed.
Printing Services Already Limited
Even before the current issue, emergency license services were limited to a few categories. Normal license printing has long delays due to high demand and resource shortages. Therefore, this added disruption may further inconvenience applicants.
Efforts to Resolve the Problem
According to DoTM, technical teams are actively trying to restore the printing system. They have not provided a timeline for when the system will be operational again.
This uncertainty has left many applicants frustrated. Some had booked flights and planned travel based on the assumption they would receive their license on time.
Communication and Coordination Lacking
Affected citizens are now demanding clear communication. Several applicants say they were not informed in advance. They only discovered the problem after visiting the DoTM office or checking online.
Without regular updates, applicants are struggling to plan their next steps. The department has asked for patience but has not offered alternatives.
Call for a Backup Plan
Transport experts believe this incident highlights the need for a backup printing system. A single point of failure can disrupt essential government services. They recommend that DoTM and related agencies prepare emergency procedures in advance.
Some have also suggested that the department should consider digital license alternatives for verified emergency cases.
Impact on Public Trust
The printing system failure has raised concerns about the department’s digital infrastructure. Public frustration is growing. Many users feel that government systems are not reliable during critical times.
As Nepal pushes for digital transformation, citizens expect stable and resilient public services. This incident has exposed weaknesses in that process.
Previous System Failures
This is not the first time the DoTM has faced technical issues. In the past, online appointment systems, smart card printing, and vehicle registration services have also faced breakdowns.
Each time, the public has faced long delays and poor communication. Experts say recurring technical failures must be addressed with long-term solutions.
Conclusion
In summary, the DoTM has temporarily stopped printing emergency driving licenses due to a printing system failure that started on April 25. The halt affects students, workers, peacekeepers, and NRNs who urgently need licenses. The department has not given a date for service resumption.
Until the issue is resolved, applicants will need to wait for further notice. Meanwhile, experts are calling for contingency plans and stronger IT infrastructure.
The Department has promised to update the public once the system is fixed. However, without a clear timeline, many citizens remain uncertain about their immediate travel and work plans.
For more: DoTM Emergency Driving License Halted
