Govt launches 24-hour driving license printing system to end backlog

April 17, 2026, 03:58:29 PM |

KATHMANDU: The government has officially launched a new system to print driving licenses within 24 hours of passing the trial and completing revenue payment, marking a major step toward improving public service delivery.

The initiative came into effect from Friday following an inspection by Minister for Communications and Information Technology Dr. Bikram Timilsina at the Security Printing Center located in Panauti-5, Kavre.

During the visit, Minister Timilsina directed officials to accelerate license printing and ensure timely service to the public. He stated that the government is committed to ending long-standing delays in license distribution, which have affected thousands of service seekers across the country.

“Now, no feasible work will be delayed. Citizens will receive services quickly, and the problem of not getting licenses for a long time will be resolved,” he said.

The government has also set a target to clear the entire backlog of pending driving licenses by the end of the current fiscal year (mid-July 2026). Authorities say the new system will significantly reduce waiting time and streamline service delivery.

Minister Timilsina emphasized the need to strengthen the Security Printing Center as an efficient and capable institution. He noted that in the past, lack of management efficiency and commitment had slowed progress, but those challenges are now being addressed.

He also expressed concern that equipment worth nearly Rs 1 billion had remained unused for a long time, adding that the ministry has initiated steps to bring them into full operation.

The center is currently printing around 40,000 licenses daily, prioritizing applicants who require licenses for foreign employment. Officials aim to print 1.2 million licenses by April 25 (Baisakh 12) and complete the remaining 1.7 million licenses by mid-July (Asar end).

Executive Director Devaraj Dhungana said the center is also preparing to expand its capacity to print other critical documents such as passports, smart cards, and excise stickers in the future.

The government has also reiterated its commitment to improving digital services, including expanding internet and mobile access nationwide within the next year.

Fiscal Nepal |

Friday April 17, 2026, 03:58:29 PM |