KATHMANDU: Traffic rule violators in Nepal can now take awareness classes online through the Nagarik app.
The online service was launched by Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak during a program at Nepal Police Headquarters on Sunday.
Previously, violators including those caught drunk driving, lane cutting, or over speeding had to physically attend classes at traffic offices. The new system allows them to complete classes remotely.
In another major change, the validity and renewal period for driver’s licenses has been extended from 5 to 10 years.
The House of Representatives has passed a bill amending 79 laws, including the Vehicle and Transport Management Act.
Under the new rule, driver’s licenses will now be issued and renewed for 10 years instead of 5.
Previously, licenses were issued and renewed every 5 years. The grace period for renewal remains 3 months from the expiry date.
Additionally, the Department of Transportation has been authorized to use an electronic system based on information technology. This system will combine vehicle registration records, driver’s license information, personal details and biometric data into a single standardized digital format.
The bill was passed by the National Assembly on July 1. It will become law once certified by President Ramchandra Paudel and published in the Gazette.
