KATHMANDU: Nepal’s new electronic driving license system has failed to operate smoothly due to inadequate preparation and technical problems, leaving applicants unable to submit applications.

The Department of Transport Management had shut down the previous license application system on July 16 and introduced separate electronic systems for all seven provinces, with a plan to fully implement the new system from July 17. However, the application process has remained disrupted since the launch.

Transport offices have reported problems such as OTPs not being received and EBP numbers not being generated. Although a new doctor portal for health verification has been introduced, the department has not provided clear public guidance.

The department says services will begin nationwide from Thursday, but officials acknowledge that the system may take another two to three months to become fully stable. The delays have particularly affected people needing licenses urgently for foreign employment and study abroad.